What To Wear For Your Prom Night
Prom night is a major milestone in the life of any high school student. It's a night that combines celebration, style, and a bit of sophistication. For young men, figuring out what to wear to prom can seem daunting with the vast array of options available. But worry not! Whether you want to go classic with a timeless black tuxedo or opt for something bold and trendy, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to look your best for prom.
Understanding the Dress Code
Before diving into specific outfits, it’s important to understand the general dress code for prom. Most proms fall under a formal or semi-formal dress code, meaning you’re expected to wear something sophisticated. While black tie events usually call for tuxedos, semi-formal settings allow for some flexibility—so suits, blazers, and even well-styled separates might be appropriate.
Check with your school or prom committee if they’ve outlined specific dress code rules, but in general, the aim is to look sharp and polished.
The Classic Tuxedo: Timeless and Elegant
The tuxedo has been the go-to option for prom for decades, and for good reason. It’s a classic, fool proof look that screams sophistication. If you want to go traditional, a black tuxedo with a bow tie or a slim tie is the perfect choice.
a. The Components of a Tuxedo
Jacket: The tuxedo jacket is typically black, but modern variations come in navy, burgundy, and even white. A single-breasted jacket with a peak or shawl lapel is a timeless choice. Avoid notch lapels, as they tend to look more like suit jackets.
Trousers: Tuxedo pants are usually made of the same material as the jacket and may have a satin stripe running down the outer leg. The key is ensuring they fit well—tailored but not too tight.
Shirt: A crisp white dress shirt is a must for any tuxedo. Look for one with a pleated front for added sophistication.
Bow Tie or Tie: While bow ties are traditional, skinny ties have become popular and offer a more modern twist. Choose a black silk tie or satin tie that complements your tuxedo.
Footwear: Black patent leather shoes or well-polished Oxfords are ideal. Remember, the shoes should be sleek and clean to match the formality of the tuxedo.
b. Modern Twists on the Tuxedo
While the black tuxedo is a staple, you can make the look your own by playing with color and fabric. Velvet blazers in shades of emerald green, deep blue, or even maroon can elevate your outfit and make you stand out in a sea of black.
The Versatile Suit: Smart, Stylish, and Flexible
If a tuxedo feels too formal for your taste, a suit is a fantastic alternative for prom. The beauty of a suit lies in its versatility. You can keep it sleek and simple with a monochrome look, or you can mix things up with a patterned jacket or coloured accessories.
a. Choosing the Right Suit
Colors: While black and navy suits are traditional and timeless, you can opt for shades of gray, charcoal, or even bolder hues like deep burgundy or forest green. Pastel-colored suits, especially in light pink, blue, or lilac, have also grown in popularity in recent years, especially for spring or summer proms.
Fit: A well-tailored suit is key. If you buy off-the-rack, consider visiting a tailor to adjust the fit of your jacket and pants. Prom is not the time for a boxy jacket or pants that are too long—ensure everything fits perfectly.
Patterns: If you want to stand out but still maintain a classy look, consider a patterned suit. Plaid, hounds tooth, or subtle pinstripes can add depth and texture to your ensemble without looking overly flashy.
b. Accessorising the Suit
Shirt: A white dress shirt is a safe and stylish choice, but you can also go for pastels or even darker shades like deep blue or grey for a modern touch.
Ties and Pocket Squares: Your accessories are where you can have fun and show your personality. A patterned tie, floral pocket square, or colorful lapel pin can make your suit more unique.
Shoes: Suits allow for a wider variety of footwear options than tuxedos. In addition to black Oxfords, you can wear brown or tan shoes depending on your suit’s color. Loafers, especially in velvet or patent leather, can add a modern flair.
Blazers and Separates: The Trendy Option
For those who want to go outside the box while maintaining a formal vibe, blazers and separates can be a stylish and trendy choice. This option allows you to mix and match pieces for a unique look while keeping the overall ensemble sharp.
a. Blazers
Blazers come in a wide range of colors, textures, and patterns. A velvet blazer or one in a bold color like emerald green, burgundy, or royal blue can be eye-catching while still feeling formal. A patterned blazer, such as one with a subtle paisley design, can also make a statement without looking too loud.
b. Mixing Separates
Pairing a bold blazer with classic trousers is a great way to mix up your prom outfit. For instance, you could wear a sleek black or navy jacket with patterned or textured pants. The key is to ensure that the pieces complement each other. You don’t want clashing colors or overly competing patterns. Balance is crucial when playing with separates.
c. Shirt and Accessories
A solid colored dress shirt is a must with separates, as it helps balance the look. When it comes to accessories, have fun—add a bow tie, slim tie, or even go tieless with a statement necklace or brooch.
Shoes: Stepping Out in Style
Footwear can either make or break your prom look. Whether you're wearing a tuxedo, suit, or separates, your shoes need to be on point. Here’s a quick guide to prom-appropriate footwear:
Black Oxfords: Perfect for both tuxedos and formal suits. Oxfords are sleek, simple, and polished.
Loafers: Suited for more modern or trendy outfits. Patent leather or velvet loafers add a stylish twist to formalwear.
Derbies: If you want something a bit more relaxed than Oxfords, Derbies are a great alternative for suits. Choose a high-quality leather pair for a refined look.
Trainers (if you're bold): Fashion-forward guys might choose to pair a well-tailored suit or separates with high-end sneakers for a modern, streetwear-inspired look. White leather sneakers are the safest bet if you decide to go this route.
The Right Fit: Tailoring is Key
One of the biggest mistakes you can make for prom is wearing an ill-fitting outfit. No matter how expensive your tuxedo, suit, or blazer is, it will not look good unless it’s tailored to your body. Prom is a formal event, so avoid loose or baggy fits.
Take the time to get your outfit tailored, even if it’s an off-the-rack suit. Small adjustments like shortening sleeves, hemming pants, or taking in the waist can make a world of difference.
Grooming and Final Touches
Your outfit is important, but don’t forget the other details that will pull your look together:
Hair: Get a fresh haircut a few days before prom to ensure your hair looks sharp and clean. Whether you opt for a slicked-back style, textured quiff, or something more casual, make sure it complements your overall look.
Facial Hair: If you have facial hair, make sure it's well-groomed. A clean shave or neatly trimmed beard is best for prom night.
Accessories: Don’t go overboard with accessories. A sleek watch, a simple tie bar, and cufflinks can enhance your look without overwhelming it.
Fragrance: A subtle cologne can add a final touch of elegance. Avoid anything too strong—just a spritz of something clean and fresh.
Putting It All Together
Ultimately, the most important part of your prom outfit is that it reflects your personal style while adhering to the event's formality. Whether you opt for a traditional tuxedo, a sleek suit, or a trendy blazer and separates combo, the key is to feel confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing.
Prom is a special night to celebrate the end of high school and the beginning of new adventures. With the right outfit, you can step into this exciting time of life looking stylish, confident, and ready to make lasting memories.
