Written by Ben Chuang

Introduction to Prom Outfits

As an elderly millennial, high school dances are a distant memory for me, but I still remember the excitement and anxiety of getting ready for prom night. It's one of the biggest school events of the year, with a lot of social proof attached. Everyone wants to look good because, in a way, we're LARPing as adults in preparation for future social events.

But fear not, if you're reading this in anticipation of an upcoming prom night or homecoming, we've got you covered. Keep reading to find out how to put together your prom outfit for the big night, what are the best prom suits for formal wear, whether or not you should wear a bow tie and more.

 

Making a Statement on Prom Night

Prom night is one of the most anticipated events of high school, and choosing the right attire is crucial to making a lasting impression.

Whether you’re aiming for classic elegance or a look with a modern twist, the options for guys have expanded beyond the traditional tuxedo to include a variety of suits, accessories, and other elements that help you stand out.

In this guide, we’ll explore the different choices guys have, from stylish suits to essential men's accessories, and offer tips on how to put together a memorable prom look that reflects your personal style.

 

Best Dress Shirts for Prom Night

Classic White Shirt

Selecting the right shirt is essential for tying your whole look together, especially for skinny guys with long arms.

The classic choice for prom night is a white dress shirt, which pairs perfectly with suits and tuxedos. Nimble Made dress shirts have an extended range of sizes that fit slimmer guys.

Nimble Made is the #1 brand for slim guys looking for the perfect dress shirt off-the-rack for events like prom.

For tuxedos, try one of these best tux shirts, as this style is designed to complement a bow tie and tuxedo jacket, creating a sleek and formal appearance. (Here's a video guide on how to tie a bow tie)

If you’re opting for a suit, a spread-collar shirt is a versatile option that can be paired with a slim tie or bow tie.

 

Subtle Colored Shirts

Colored shirts, such as a light blue dress shirt or a light pink dress shirt, are a stylish alternative for guys wearing suits, allowing for some personalization without breaking the formal tone.

A skinny-fit shirt is ideal, as a tailored fit helps maintain a clean, sophisticated look.

Whatever style you choose, make sure your shirt is freshly pressed and comfortable enough to wear throughout the evening. Don't forget to check out this list of best 18 dress shirts and how to iron dress shirts.

 

Picking Prom Suits

Prom suits have become increasingly popular for guys who want to look sharp but prefer a slightly more relaxed style than a tuxedo.

A suit provides versatility, allowing you to mix and match colors and styles to find the look that best suits your personality. Try wearing a blue suit with a black shirt, or a black suit with a green tie.

Emphasis on Proper Fit

Slim-fit and tailored suits are particularly trendy, offering a sleek silhouette that looks polished without being overly formal. For a unique twist, some opt for double-breasted jackets, which add a sophisticated touch. We break down the types of suits here.

When it comes to color, navy, charcoal gray, and even teal or turquoise are popular choices, giving guys a chance to break away from traditional black. We recommend one of these best suit colors to have.

A well-chosen suit with nice dress shoes can offer just the right balance of style and comfort, the perfect outfit for a memorable prom night.

 

Elevate with a Classic Tuxedo

For those who favor a timeless and formal appearance, the classic tuxedo with tuxedo shoes is the ideal choice.

A tuxedo vs suit instantly elevates any look with its signature satin details on the lapels, pocket trim, and side stripe on the trousers. This satin touch adds a layer of elegance that’s perfect for a formal event like prom.

Old School vs New School

While a black tuxedo remains a staple, some guys choose modern twists, such as midnight blue or velvet textures, which offer a rich, eye-catching alternative.

The tuxedo is often paired with a white dress shirt and a bow tie, contributing to a cohesive, high-end look.

For a truly classic prom ensemble, you can’t go wrong with a tuxedo shirt that channels old-school elegance with a modern fit.

 

Accessories that Elevate the Look

Accessories like boutonnieres are essential for adding personality and flair to your prom outfit. They help define your style and can make a simple suit or tuxedo stand out.

Let’s look closer at three key accessories—bow ties, ties, and pocket squares—and how they can elevate your prom look.

Bow Ties: Classic and Charming

Bow ties are the quintessential accessory for a formal event like prom, especially when paired with a tuxedo. They offer a vintage, sophisticated look that’s both charming and timeless.

Traditionally, bow ties are worn in black or white, but modern prom fashion allows for more experimentation.

Ties: Modern and Versatile

Ties provide a more versatile and often more relaxed look than bow ties, making them a great option for those wearing suits.

Solid-colored ties like this navy slim tie, black slim tie, or burgundy tie are always in style.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, consider a green patterned tie—stripes, paisley, or polka dots can add visual interest without being too bold.

Pocket Squares: Elegant and Refined

A pocket square may seem like a small detail, but it has the power to completely transform your prom outfit.

For prom, you can choose a pocket square that matches your tie or offers a contrasting pop of color.

For example, if you’re wearing a black suit with a red tie, a white or red pocket square can tie the whole look together.

 

Color Coordination

Color coordination is a popular trend for prom, allowing couples to present a cohesive and polished look.

Matching your outfit’s color scheme with your date’s dress color can be as simple as choosing a tie, pocket square, or boutonniere that complements their dress or suit.

This coordination doesn’t have to be exact; even subtle color similarities in accessories or shirt details can create a harmonious effect.

 

Satin Lapels

Satin lapels are a defining feature of formalwear, adding a touch of sophistication that sets tuxedos and certain suits apart. The smooth, shiny satin on the lapels adds contrast to the fabric of the jacket, drawing attention to the chest and shoulders for a refined silhouette.

Traditionally seen on tuxedos, satin lapels have now made their way onto prom suits, giving guys the opportunity to combine classic and modern elements in their outfits. Opting for satin lapels can add that extra level of formality to a suit, making it perfect for an event like prom where the goal is to look your best.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about What Do Guys Wear to Prom

Do guys wear tux or suits to prom?

Traditionally, prom has seen a mix of tuxedos and suits, and the choice between them depends largely on personal style and the level of formality the wearer desires. A tuxedo typically leans more formal, featuring satin details on the lapels, pocket trim, and a satin stripe on trousers.

Suits, however, are more versatile and can be dressed up or down with different shirt and tie combinations, offering a stylish yet slightly relaxed alternative. While tuxedos still symbolize classic prom attire, suits are becoming more popular for the modern look they provide.

Ultimately, either can be appropriate depending on the prom theme, personal preference, and school traditions. For guys looking to make a statement, a tuxedo with a bow tie can exude timeless elegance, whereas a suit offers a contemporary, polished look that can be personalized through colors and accessories.

What are boys wearing to the prom in 2024?

In 2024, boys' prom outfits embrace timeless elegance and modern flair. Many are opting for fitted suits in colors beyond classic black, such as navy, burgundy, and forest green, which add personality while remaining sophisticated.

Bold tuxedo styles with unique lapels, velvet fabrics, or embroidered details are also trending, offering a blend of tradition and statement-making. Accessories have become key in prom fashion this year; boys are enhancing their looks with patterned ties, pocket squares, lapel pins, and sometimes even statement shoes in vibrant colors or interesting textures.

The push toward individuality also means more unconventional elements, like double-breasted jackets and mix-and-match suit pieces, are being incorporated.

What colors do guys wear to prom?

Prom colors for guys have diversified in recent years, allowing for both classic and modern color palettes. Traditional colors like black, charcoal, and navy remain popular for a timeless look, offering a refined and formal vibe.

However, many are also gravitating toward colors that add a bit of flair, such as deep burgundy or maroon, emerald green, and royal blue, which make a memorable impression without overshadowing the formal nature of prom. Some guys are experimenting with lighter shades like pastel pink, light gray, and even soft lavender like this light purple dress shirt, especially if these colors complement their date’s attire.

For a bolder approach, metallic hues or jackets with subtle patterns, like checks or paisley, can be a great way to stand out. Color coordination with a date’s dress is also a popular choice, helping to achieve a harmonious and stylish look that’s personalized and on-trend.

What is the prom dress code?

Prom dress codes vary by school, but they generally lean toward formal or semi-formal men's attire, creating an elegant atmosphere. For boys, this prom attire typically means wearing a suit or tuxedo with dress shoes.

While most schools encourage traditional prom attire to maintain a formal ambiance, they often permit tasteful self-expression through accessories, such as ties, bow ties, a pocket square, and sometimes unique footwear.

Girls typically wear formal dresses, often long, though shorter options can be acceptable depending on the school’s dress code on prom outfits.