The first thing you need to do before picking a fall formal outfit is to check your school’s dress code. Most likely, the dress code is not formal or black-tie, but if it is, what does that mean? Formal dress codes encompass all kinds of dressier options, including dress suits, dinner jackets or tuxedos, so plan to go all out if you’re comfortable with it.
While guys tend to get off easier than girls with regard to fall formal outfits, some schools may ban certain types of clothing or shoes. For example, your school may prohibit you from wearing sneakers or hats. We don’t want to be responsible for getting you in trouble, but it’s up to you how seriously you want to take the dress code. It’s worth considering that they may not let you in if you don’t follow the code.
The Most Common Fall Formal Outfits for Guys
Now that you’ve thought through the big-picture considerations, it’s time to dive into the details. When planning your look, consider the three most common options outlined below so you know what to look for when you head out to shop for or rent your outfit.
Consider the Theme
You don’t necessarily have to dress in a way that vibes with the theme of the dance, but it can serve as inspo if you’re lost on which direction to take. Some common themes include masquerade, Old Hollywood, fairytale and decade themes. If the theme correlates with a certain time period — say, the ’60s or ’70s — you may want to look online for a look from that period and let that guide you to the right fall formal outfit.
Consider Matching Your Date
There’s one last thing to consider before you dive into the options. Your date may want to coordinate colors or styles, so make sure to talk to them before deciding. Whether you wear a suit or not, it’s common to match your tie, vest, pocket square and other accessories to your date’s dress. If your date is wearing a suit as well, you could go for a matching look or wear two different suit colors with accessories that coordinate.
The Ultra-Formal OG: Tuxedos
Tuxedos are the most formal and dressy option, so they’re ideal for black-tie and formal dress codes. They are typically made of a high-quality material such as wool and are usually worn with a bow tie, a formal shirt and either a vest or cummerbund. Tuxedos have a few fancy trimmings that make them dressier than a typical suit, including satin trimming on the lapels, the sides of the trousers and even the buttons.
