The wedding invite has been haphazardly stuck to the fridge for weeks now. But that call for cocktail or black-tie attire? You know you’ve been completely ignoring it. And now it’s officially time to prepare. So relax and read on – we’re going to tell you how to nail it.

Cocktail: When the dress code requests cocktail attire, you have some room for creativity. Opt for a dark suit (think navy or charcoal), then have some fun with your shirt-and-tie combination. Try a solid color or a subtle pinstriped dress shirt with a punchy silk tie in a paisley or diagonal-stripe print.

Black Tie: This sounds intimidating, but embrace the ease of what is essentially a fancy-wedding uniform. Grab a black tuxedo – with silk lapels and a trim fit for a slimming, modern vibe – then add a crisp white dress shirt, black tie or bow tie, and shined-up black dress shoes. Voilŕ, done. 

Ready to get dressed? Our Best (Dressed) Man: Style for Late-Summer Weddings Boutique opened Thursday, August 7, at 11AM ET.