More Than Just the Suit
Homecoming is one of those rare moments in high school when dressing up isn’t just expected—it’s celebrated. It’s your chance to show off a more refined side of yourself, make an impression, and feel confident walking into the room. But let’s be real: everyone wears a suit or blazer. The real difference lies in how you accessorize.
Accessories are the small, often overlooked pieces that bring personality, sharpness, and intention to your look. You don’t need to overdo it—just the right mix of details can make a classic suit feel entirely your own. Think of your suit as the canvas, and your accessories as the brushstrokes that define your style. Whether you’re pulling inspiration from style blogs, fashion icons, or a well-dressed friend, these details help you tell your story without saying a word.
Why Accessories Matter on Homecoming Night
When the dress code is more or less set (suit, dress shirt, shoes), accessories are where individuality shines. They let you experiment with color, texture, or even subtle rebellion. They’re what elevate your outfit from “standard formalwear” to “this guy has style.”
In photos, on the dance floor, or just walking in with your group—details matter. A pocket square or sharp cufflink might not seem like a big deal, but they can catch someone’s eye, signal effort, and help you stand out without saying a word. And let’s face it: if everyone shows up in a suit, the guy who adds a lapel pin and patterned socks is the one people remember.
Style guides from sources like the Men’s Wearhouse blog can offer visual inspiration without pushing products—consider them as idea generators, helping you find your own look through curated examples.
Still getting started? Check out our beginner’s guide: What Do Guys Wear to Homecoming?
The 10 Best Accessories for a Memorable Homecoming Look
1. Pocket Squares: Your Signature Move
A pocket square adds polish and personality. It’s a finishing touch that says you thought through your look, without needing to say anything at all. For Homecoming, try a soft puff fold in a color that contrasts but doesn’t clash with your jacket.
Style Tip: Coordinate with your shirt or your date’s outfit, but avoid matching everything exactly. Intentional contrast creates more visual interest.
Pro Combo: Charcoal suit + lavender shirt + geometric pocket square.
Learn: How to fold a pocket square
2. Cufflinks: Small But Strong
Cufflinks are a subtle power move. They show attention to detail and set you apart from the button-cuffed crowd. From classic silver to minimalist black or even monogrammed styles, the right pair of cufflinks feels elevated without trying too hard.
Style Tip: Cufflinks work best with French cuff shirts, so be sure you’ve got the right shirt to support them.
Pro Combo: White French cuff shirt + navy suit + brushed steel cufflinks.
3. Ties & Bow Ties: Show Your Personality
Whether you go with a classic tie or a bold bow tie, this is one of the easiest places to express your style. Think beyond solid colors—try textures like knit, matte satin, or wool blends, especially for fall events like Homecoming.
Style Tip: A skinny tie adds a modern edge; a bow tie makes a retro-cool statement. Choose the one that matches your vibe.
Pro Combo: Burgundy knit tie + grey suit + plaid shirt.
4. A Watch: Functional Style
Even in a smartphone world, a classic watch is a timeless move. It gives structure to your outfit, adds balance to your wrist, and communicates maturity.
Style Tip: Leather bands work well with dressy outfits. Metal bands are more fashion-forward. Skip the smartwatch for the night.
Pro Combo: Brown leather band watch + navy suit + tan shoes.
5. Lapel Pins or Boutonnieres: Small, Bold Accents
A lapel pin or a floral boutonniere (real or fabric) can be the detail that pulls the whole look together. It also adds dimension in photos and a sense of occasion to your jacket.
Style Tip: Choose one, not both. A floral boutonniere feels more traditional; an enamel pin can look edgy or artistic.
Pro Combo: Black lapel pin + windowpane suit + solid tie.
6. Statement Socks: A Peek of Personality
Want to sneak in some flair without taking over your whole look? Socks are the answer. Bold colors, subtle patterns, or even fun prints can peek out just enough when you sit or step up.
Style Tip: Coordinate with your tie or pocket square for cohesion. If your suit is bold, keep socks subtle.
Pro Combo: Striped socks + slim grey pants + white low-profile dress sneakers.
7. Dress Shoes: Your Foundation
A great pair of shoes can make or break your outfit. Whether it’s sleek loafers or lace-up oxfords, clean and well-cared-for shoes anchor your whole look.
Style Tip: Make sure they’re broken in, polished, and fit comfortably. Painful shoes are the fastest way to kill your vibe.
Pro Combo: Dark brown cap-toe oxfords + charcoal suit.
8. Rings or Bracelets: Understated Edge
Jewelry isn’t just for your date. A single silver ring or a leather bracelet can add subtle edge to your outfit without taking the spotlight. It’s personal, modern, and if it reflects your everyday style, it won’t feel like you’re trying too hard.
Style Tip: Stick to one hand, one or two pieces max. Think minimal, not maximal.
Pro Combo: Silver ring + dark suit + rolled sleeve dress shirt.
9. Tie Bars: Simple, Stylish Utility
A tie bar keeps your tie in place and adds a clean metallic touch to your look. It’s a small detail with a big payoff in photos and movement.
Style Tip: Place it between the third and fourth buttons of your shirt, and make sure it doesn’t extend past the width of your tie.
Pro Combo: Brushed silver tie bar + black tie + checkered shirt.
10. Fragrance: The Invisible Finisher
Style isn’t just visual—it’s sensory. A light, crisp fragrance can be the final touch that leaves a lasting impression (in a good way).
Style Tip: One spray to the chest, one to the wrist—done. Avoid heavy or overpowering scents.
Pro Combo: Clean citrus or woody scent with no more than two sprays.
How to Pull It All Together
Think of accessories as building blocks. You don’t need to wear all ten. Choose 3-5 that speak to your personal style and match the tone of your outfit. If you’re going bold with your tie, maybe keep the socks and lapel pin subtle. Or let a watch and cufflinks do the talking if your suit is classic and neutral.
A good rule? The “two statement” rule. Limit bold choices to two areas—like socks and tie, or lapel pin and pocket square. The rest should support, not compete.
Need ideas on how to pair colors or themes? Men’s Wearhouse has visual breakdowns in their Homecoming blog that show how details like tie bars or watches complement the rest of the look. Use them as style guides, not shopping lists.
FAQs About Homecoming Accessories
Q: Do I have to wear a tie?
No—but it adds structure. If your outfit feels too formal with a tie, go tieless with a bold pocket square and lapel pin to keep it intentional.
Q: Can I wear sneakers to Homecoming?
Yes—if they’re clean, low-profile, and styled well. Think leather or suede dress sneakers, not athletic kicks.
Q: Is a boutonniere still a thing?
Definitely. It’s a classic Homecoming tradition, but it doesn’t have to be stuffy. Consider minimal greenery or small blooms that match your vibe.
Conclusion: Make It Yours
Accessories are more than just add-ons. They’re what turn a good outfit into a great one—something that feels like you. Homecoming is about memories, movement, and moments. So whether you’re dancing, posing for photos, or just showing up with confidence, make the details count.
Looking for more style ideas or outfit guidance? Style blogs like Men’s Wearhouse’s Homecoming hub offer visual inspiration and curated looks that can help you explore ideas and sharpen your personal style.
Make your mark with the details. Because that’s what style is all about.