Black tie optional wedding as a guest

He definitely doesn't need to rent a tux if it's explicitly Black Tie Optional. My H actually owns one but rarely wears it to Black Tie Optional weddings. What you've described sounds appropriate, and I think either tie option is fine.

I think what you've described is definitely appropriate for a wedding.

"Black Tie Optional" really isn't a proper dress code. It's either Black or White Tie, or it isn't. So anything that you would wear to a formal event is appropriate.

Your description is appropriate.

but what is Black tie optional...I always thought either it is or it isn't.

Mrs Davis - Black Tie Optional really just means formal. That a tux would be appropriate for the level of formality, but not required.

I don't really get attire suggestions unless it's explicitly black tie, generally the venue gives the clue of what to wear, but that's just me.

Thanks everyone! Usually it's me stressing about what to wear. This is the first time we've worried about his attire

How fun!! I think a suit sounds fine. Post a pic of your dress!! I love being able to wear formal gowns to weddings.

I would say what you have sounds good, I would start with the vest and depending on what other guests are wearing/your FH feels comfortable in he can either keep it on or take it off.

@Erin I'm wearing this! It's something I normally wouldn't wear, but I'm so excited to wear it! The purple/gray color looks nice with FH's bow tie. And @Caitlin that's a good point. If he feels overdressed, he can always take off the vest between the ceremony and reception