Prom’s around the corner, and you want to impress. We don’t blame you—it’s one of the biggest nights of your high school career.
You don’t want to look like everyone else (that would be boring, and you’re not boring) but at the same time, you definitely don’t want to end up the spitting image your dad at his prom in 1986. So what should you wear to prom? Here’s an idea.
From the red carpet to the runways, we’ve noticed lately that a lot of style-forward guys are trading in their typical black tuxedos for something bolder: the dinner jacket. Worn with black tuxedo pants—and available in almost every color, texture, and print imaginable—dinner jackets are modern, polished, and make a statement. They say, “This is who I am, and I’m not afraid to stand out a little.” It’s more of a declaration, really.
Here at The Black Tux, we’re big fans of putting your own spin on formalwear when occasion calls for it. Prom is one of those occasions: you’re young and fun—dress like it. Here are a few of our favorite dinner jackets that live up to prom’s festive vibes—wear one of these styles, and your moves won’t be the only thing to stand out on the dance floor.
Velvet Dinner Jacket
Style Inspiration: Sam Aaron wearing Tom Ford at the 2017 Golden Globes
Velvet’s having a moment, and we must say: we’re really feeling it (literally and figuratively). The plush, super rich texture of this jacket will have people wanting to dance up on you all night long. Whether or not that’s a good thing, you can decide.
Get this look:
Velvet Jacket Tuxedo, Black Velvet Bow Tie, White Linen Pocket Square
Black & White Shawl Collar Jacket
Style Inspiration: David Oyelowo wearing Dolce & Gabbana at the 2017 Academy Awards
There’s only one way to describe this look: slick. A white dinner jacket conjures up images of James Bond, Ryan Gosling, and other guys who are popular with the ladies and probably drive really nice cars. Wear a white jacket, and you’ll be style king of the prom for sure.
Get this look:
Contrast Shawl Jacket Tuxedo, Black Satin Straight Self-Tie, Black Onyx Button Studs, Black Onyx Cufflinks
The Navy & Black Shawl Collar Jacket
Style Inspiration: James Marsden wearing Valentino at the 2017 Screen Actors Guild Awards
Whoever says you can’t wear navy and black together doesn’t know what they are talking about—just look at James Marsden killing it in this look. The blue jacket keeps it interesting, without screaming, “look at me!” in a really obvious way. It’s subtle and statement-making at the same time.
Get this look:
Midnight Pin Dot Tuxedo, Black Satin Diamond Self-Tie, Cotton Fly-Front Dress Shirt
The Pink Dinner Jacket
Style Inspiration: James Cordon wearing Tom Ford at the 2016 Grammy Awards
Why blend in, when you were born to stand out in this dinner jacket? Not for the faint of style, a pink dinner jacket exudes confidence in a way that few other looks can. It’s guaranteed to turn heads from when you step out of the limo, to the after party, and everything in between.
Get this look:
Rose Shawl Jacket Tuxedo, Black Textured Silk Bow Tie, Cap Toe Shoes
Which dinner jacket will you choose? Shop more here. And remember: prom is one night, but the photos are forever. Dress wisely.