6 Different Ways to Dress Your Date for Prom
Turns out, guys can have just as much fun with their prom looks as girls. The limited sartorial adventures seen from guys at the big dance may be due to a lack of caring or fashion know-how, but anyone lucky enough to escort you to the prom should know better.
Don't let him shy away from being a black-tie rebel! A common misconception is that a tudo is required for all male attendees at the event, but that is far from the truth. Remember, you're still in high school, so let's not take this night too seriously. Instead, infuse some of that rebellious teenage spirit into coordinating outfits that showcase your truest selves, inside and out.
Instead of wasting money on a tudo rental, have him take this opportunity to invest in some formal wear he'll get to wear again and again. Click through the styling tips above and help find the perfect look.
Photo: Greg Harris1/7You've picked out your dream dress—now it's time to coordinate!
2/7The Class Clown
Mixing stripes is just right for a guy who loves receiving all of the attention. The class clown isn’t afraid of taking risks and understands how to be loud without saying anything.
Clockwise from top left: Thom Browne striped blazer, $1515. mrporter.com. Thom Browne striped trousers, $990. mrporter.com. Brioni contrast-collar shirt, $595. neimanmarcus.com. Brooks Brothers tie w/ cummerbund, $175. brooksbrothers.com. Sperry top siders, $39.90. nordstromrack.com.
3/7The New-Age Prep
Preppy guys are known for their classic uniform of khaki chinos, pastel oords, and boring boat shoes. We love a clean-cut guy, but this is prom! Shake things up with a printed pocket square and statement sneaker. By opting for a sporty shoe, you’re ensuring ample time with your date on the dance floor. This cotton blazer will keep him cool and looking even cooler.
Clockwise from top left: Brooks Brothers linen sport shirt, $105. brooksbrothers.com. Aspesi cotton blazer, $260. mrporter.com. Brooks Brothers braided belt, $68.60. brooksbrothers.com. River Island tweed skinny suit pants, $30. us.riverisland.com. Maison Margiela embellished leather sneakers, $555. stylebop.com. Boglioli cotton pocket square, $150. mrporter.com.
4/7The Rocker
It doesn’t get any more rock and roll than leather. The detail on the collar of this jacket sets the tone for this crazy-cool ensemble. All black everything is full-proof for looking totally badass.
Clockwise from top left: Band of Outsiders blazer, $700. yoox.com. Calvin Klein black dress shirt, $19.50. macys.com. City of London skinny black tie, $19.99. target.com. The Kooples leather pants, $895. stylebop.com. Aldo chelsea boots, $70. aldoshoes.com. Hope narrow belt, $74.55. farfetch.com.
5/7The Romantic
This classic tudo look is for the guy who plays by the rules. While we advocate out-of-the-box outfits, we appreciate a romantic when we see one. Instead of renting, this guy is the perfect candidate for buying a tux of his own. The leather lapel pin is a fun modern touch.
Clockwise from top left: Theory tudo pants, $285. eastdane.com. Alexander McQueen velvet bowtie, $130. couture.zappos.com. River Island black tudo jacket, $80. us.riverisland.com. Kenneth Cole Reaction Tudo Shoes, $87.99. macys.com. Michelsons of London tudo shirt, $39.99. macys.com. Lanvin leather lapel pin, $171. matchesfashion.com. J.Crew classic satin cummerbund, $75. jcrew.com.
6/7The Skater
Skater boys are too cool for school. Gray is an awesome color palette for a moody teen. The star pattern on the shirt and tie lend a punk edge, and the sneaker pin pays homage to the shoes he’d rather be wearing that night.
Clockwise from top left:H&M slim-fit pants, $34.95. hm.com. H&M slim-fit blazer, $69.95. hm.com. Lanvin sneaker lapel pin, $170. neimanmarcus.com. John Varvatos star-print shirt, $45. lastcall.com. Dries Van Noten star-print silk tie, $160. selfridges.com. Original Penguin brogues, $185. zappos.com.
7/7The Bohemian
This guy is all about comfort and good vibes. A linen suit is a great alternative to a stuffy synthetic tudo. The vest is a piece he can incorporate into his weekly wardrobe and is perfectly paired with a leather bracelet. Instead of a boutonniere and corsage, opt for matching leis!
Clockwise from top left: Lorenzo-Wool hand fringed pocket square, $33. elizabetta.net. Lardini vest, $265. thecorner.com. H&M linen blazer, $69.95. hm.com. H&M linen suit pants, $34.95. hm.com. Soludos espadrilles, $38. soludos.com. Miansi bracelet, $80. lyst.com. Chispa long-sleeve tunic, $24.99. sears.com.
