What Do Guys Wear to Prom? Your Ultimate Guide
Prom is an American tradition that dates back more than 100 years. The first prom ever recorded was held at Amherst College, 1894. The prom-going men have tended to wear the same style elements, aside from the distinctive bell bottom suits of '70s or the ruffled shirts of '80s. Black bow ties, tuxes and polished shoes were essential back then as they are today.
If you are new to formal wear, it is possible that you might be confused about the details. This guide will cover the basics of what men wear to prom. It will help you look your best in photos and on the dancefloor.
Side note: These looks don't only work for men! A well-tailored suit can make the ladies look equally stunning.
Find Your School's Prom Dress Code
Before you can choose a 'fit, check the prom dress code at your school. The dress code will most likely be formal or black-tie. But what does this mean? Formal dress codes can include all types of formal options such as dinner jackets, dress suits, and tuxedos. Prom dress codes tend to be more formal than homecoming and winter formal. So, if you feel comfortable, go all out.
Black tie. You'll want to wear an tuxedo and a bow tie if the dress code specifies that black-tie attire is required. You won't be out of place at prom if you wear a tuxedo with a bow tie, regardless of whether the dress code is semi-formal or black-tie.
Semi-formal. Semi-formal clothes are more formal than what a man might wear to work, but they're not as casual as a tuxedo. We recommend that you skip the tuxedo and in favor of one of our prom suits. Dinner jackets can also be used to dress in semi-formal attire.
Casual. You might be asked by your school to dress up, so it is probably not the right dress code for prom. You can wear khakis, jeans or a suit jacket or sportcoat with casual attire. Although your school might have a more casual dress code for homecoming and other dances than prom, it is probably not the right time to wear something casual.
Although men tend to be more comfortable dressing in formal attire than women, there are some schools that may prohibit certain clothing and shoes. Your school might ban you from wearing sneakers or hats. While we don't want you to get in trouble, it is up to you to decide how serious you take the dress code. If you don't adhere to the code, they might not allow you in.
Take a look at the Theme
It doesn't mean that you have to dress up in a way that reflects the theme of the dance. However, it can be a guideline if you are unsure which direction to go. There are many themes that are common, such as Old Hollywood, fairytale, and decade. You may find inspiration online for suits and tuxes from the period you are interested in and use that information to help you choose the right suit or suit.
Match Your Date
Before you start exploring the options, there's one more thing. You and your date might want to coordinate colors and styles. Talk to them before you make a decision. It's not unusual to match your tie with your date's dress, whether you're wearing a tuxedo or three-piece suit. You can match your suit with the suit of your date or choose two colors and accessories that coordinate.
The Most Popular Prom Outfits For Guys
After you have considered the big picture, let's get into the details. Consider these three options when planning your prom look. They will help you to know what to look out for when you go to rent or shop for your outfit.
The Ultra-Formal O: Tuxedos
Prom tuxedos, which are formal and elegant, are ideal for formal occasions. These tuxedos are made from high-quality materials such as wool. They can be worn with a bow tie or formal shirt, and a vest or cummerbund. There are a few extras that make a tuxedo more formal than a standard suit: satin trimming on the lapels and sides of the trousers, as well as the buttons.
If you wish to:
As formal as you can dress
You want a classic look?
Wear a vest, bow tie or cummerbund
You want to wear traditional dress shoes
Wear something that you aren't used to wearing
You should wear something that matches the look of your date
We recommend an all-black tuxedo with a matching vest and bow tie. Prom tuxedos can be in black or midnight blue, but these are not the only options. There are many cool colors for tuxedos, including gray, white, and even gray. -- and some patterns. We offer bow ties as well as men’s vests in many colors so you can match your date's style.
Buying vs. Renting Tuxedos
Prom-goers prefer to rent a tuxedo, as they don't wear it often. If you plan on wearing it more than once per year, you might consider buying one to keep in your closet. You never know what you might need!
Dress Suits Effortlessly Cool:
For guys who are going to prom, dress suits are an option. If you don't want to be too formal, but still want to look classy, we recommend this option. Prom suits | Angelino do not have to be worn with the bow tie and any additional components such as the cummerbund or vest. A necktie can be worn with a dress shirt and a tie, but not with a bow tie. Are you still feeling the vest or bow tie? You can pair them with a suit.
If you wish to:
You can look great even if you don't want to be too formal
Instead of a bow tie, wear a necktie
Do not wear a vest or cummerbund
Renting is not the best option for prom looks.
Use brighter colors and patterns
You prefer a modern, more contemporary vibe
Have a dress suit?
How to Wear A Dress Suit
You can dress up or down the dress suit to fit your mood. You can take a leaf out of the book of Terrence J. and Rami Malek and wear a brightly colored suit, or stick to the classics with a black or midnight-blue material. There are many men's shirt choices. You can either go modern with a turtleneck and a suit, or keep it classic with a white button-up.
Buying vs. Renting dress suits
Your prom suit can be rented or purchased. Which is better? There are more occasions in your life when you can wear a formal suit. You might consider purchasing a solid suit for prom, and having it tailored by a professional rather than renting. You will always have something to wear. Renting is cheaper, so renting is a great option if you want to save some money.
Dinner Jackets
The dinner jacket is another option you should keep at the table. The dinner jacket is a favorite of well-dressed men like Jake Gyllenhaal and Daniel Craig. These jackets are available in bold patterns and prints, rather than the usual black or midnightblue.