{"id":7670,"date":"2025-08-28T15:47:05","date_gmt":"2025-08-28T22:47:05","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/?p=7670"},"modified":"2026-09-18T15:05:19","modified_gmt":"2026-09-18T22:05:19","slug":"homecoming-hoco-faq-for-guys","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/homecoming-hoco-faq-for-guys\/","title":{"rendered":"Homecoming (HOCO) FAQ for Guys &#8211; Dress Code, Fit, Flowers &amp; Pro Tips"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><em>Last updated: August 27, 2025<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planning HOCO? This all-in-one FAQ covers dress codes, suit vs. tux, fit and tailoring, budget tips, flowers (corsages &amp; boutonnieres), grooming timing, inclusive style advice, and more\u2014so you can look sharp and actually enjoy the night.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u27a1\ufe0f <strong>Start here:<\/strong> Explore the full Homecoming hub on Men\u2019s Wearhouse for ideas and outfit guides: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/\">https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Quick TOC<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-dress-code\">What\u2019s the HOCO dress code?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-suit-vs-tux\">Suit or tux for homecoming?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-jeans-or-sneakers\">Can I wear jeans or sneakers?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-colors\">What colors work best\u2014and how do I coordinate with a date?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#fast-checklist\">How should a suit fit (fast fit checklist<\/a><a>)?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-last-minutes\">What if I\u2019m buying last-minute\u2014what can be tailored fast?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-pocket-square\">Pocket square &amp; tie basics (do they need to match)<\/a><a>?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#corsage or boutonniere\">Do I need a corsage or boutonniere? Who buys what<\/a><a>?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#flowers-or-boutonniere\">When should I order flowers and how do I pin a boutonniere?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#date-or-no-date\">Do I need a date to go?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#alumni\">Can alumni attend the homecoming dance?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#hoco-budget\">What\u2019s a realistic HOCO budget?<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#grooming-timeline\">Grooming timeline (haircut, skin, nails) for photo day<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#style-tips\">Inclusive style tips (sensory-friendly &amp; wheelchair-friendly)<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"#last-minute-checklist\">Last-minute checklist<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-dress-code\">What\u2019s the HOCO dress code?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most schools call homecoming <strong>semi-formal<\/strong>. That usually means:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Best bet:<\/strong> A <strong>two-piece suit<\/strong> <em>or<\/em> <strong>dress pants + dress shirt + blazer<\/strong>, dress shoes, and a tie or bow tie.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Too casual:<\/strong> Hoodies, graphic tees, shorts; jeans are often not allowed (check your school\u2019s rules).<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Too formal:<\/strong> Tuxedos are overkill unless your school says black tie.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">See: Men\u2019s Wearhouse Homecoming Style Guide for Guys (ideas by dress code): <a href=\"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/homecoming-style-guide-for-guys-nail-the-dress-code-own-the-night\/\">https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/homecoming-style-guide-for-guys-nail-the-dress-code-own-the-night\/<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-suit-vs-tux\">Suit or tux for homecoming?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Suit:<\/strong> Safe choice for semi-formal. Navy, charcoal, black, or a dark tonal pattern keeps it sharp.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Tux:<\/strong> Only if your school specifically asks for <em>formal\/black tie<\/em>. If you love the tux look, a <strong>white dinner jacket + black trousers<\/strong> can be a fun, dressy twist\u2014but confirm the dress code.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-jeans-or-sneakers\">Can I wear jeans or sneakers?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Jeans:<\/strong> Usually <strong>no<\/strong> for semi-formal. If your school is looser, dark-wash jeans + dress shirt + blazer <strong>might<\/strong> fly\u2014still ask first.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sneakers:<\/strong> Clean leather or dress sneakers <em>can<\/em> work with a suit at relaxed venues. If your school requires dress shoes, stick to Oxfords\/derbies\/loafers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-colors\">What colors work best\u2014and how do I coordinate with a date?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Timeless:<\/strong> Navy, charcoal, black suits with a white shirt. Add a tie\/pocket square that ties in your date\u2019s outfit.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>On-trend:<\/strong> Deep jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, burgundy) for ties, shirts, or a sport coat. Textured fabrics (like velvet for a blazer) read festive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Coordination tips:<\/strong> Match <strong>intensity<\/strong>, not identical swatches. If your date wears an emerald dress, try a <strong>green-toned tie<\/strong> or <strong>pocket square<\/strong>, not head-to-toe green.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Shop HOCO outfits: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/c\/occasions\/homecoming-suits\">https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/c\/occasions\/homecoming-suits<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"fast-checklist\">How should a suit fit (fast fit checklist)?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Shoulders:<\/strong> Seam sits right at the edge of your shoulder; no dents\/overhang.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Jacket chest\/waist:<\/strong> Button closes without pulling; about a <strong>thumb<\/strong> of space between stomach and jacket when closed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sleeves:<\/strong> Show a <strong>\u00bc\u2013\u00bd inch<\/strong> of shirt cuff.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Length:<\/strong> Hem reaches mid-hand when arms rest naturally; seat is covered.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pants:<\/strong> Waist comfortable without belt cinching; legs tapered but not tight; hem with a <strong>slight break<\/strong> over the shoe.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-last-minutes\">What if I\u2019m buying last-minute\u2014what can be tailored fast?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Quick fixes:<\/strong> Hemming pants, sleeve length, minor waist\/seat tweaks are often fast. Complex changes (shoulders, major jacket suppression) take longer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Game plan:<\/strong> Grab a suit that fits your <strong>shoulders<\/strong> first; tailor the easy stuff.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Call your store:<\/strong> Availability and turnaround vary by location and season.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-pocket-square\">Pocket square &amp; tie basics (do they need to match)?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Nope.<\/strong> They should <strong>complement<\/strong>, not perfectly match. Think related colors\/patterns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Easy folds:<\/strong> For guaranteed polish, use a <strong>Presidential\/flat<\/strong> fold; for a softer vibe, use a <strong>puff<\/strong> fold.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Width alignment:<\/strong> Match tie width to your lapel width (skinny tie \u2194 slim lapel).<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"corsage-or-boutonniere\">Do I need a corsage or boutonniere? Who buys what?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Tradition:<\/strong> The person wearing the suit typically wears a <strong>boutonniere<\/strong>. The other partner often wears a <strong>corsage<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Modern take:<\/strong> Anyone can buy their own, skip them altogether, or do <strong>prom-style mini bouquets<\/strong>. Talk with your date or group.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"flowers-or-boutonniere\">When should I order flowers and how do I pin a boutonniere?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Timing:<\/strong> Place your <strong>order 1\u20132 weeks<\/strong> before the dance for best selection. Pick up <strong>1\u20132 days<\/strong> before to keep it fresh.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Pinning (left lapel):<\/strong>\n<ol start=\"1\" class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Hold the boutonniere on the <strong>left lapel<\/strong>, stems down.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Insert the pin <strong>from behind<\/strong> the lapel, through the wrapped stem, then back into the lapel fabric.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add a second pin if you\u2019ll be dancing a lot.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"date-or-no-date\">Do I need a date to go?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>No.<\/strong> Homecoming is extremely group-friendly. Plenty of people go with friends or solo.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"alumni\">Can alumni attend the homecoming dance?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Often no<\/strong> for the <strong>dance<\/strong> itself (many schools limit it to current students + an approved guest under 21), though alumni are welcome at the <strong>game<\/strong> and <strong>events<\/strong>. Always check your school\u2019s guest policy and deadlines for forms.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"hoco-budget\">What\u2019s a realistic HOCO budget?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Budgets vary a lot by school and city, but a typical range might look like:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Ticket:<\/strong> ~$20\u2013$60<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Outfit:<\/strong> Build from your closet or plan for <strong>suit\/separates\/shirt\/tie\/shoes<\/strong> (buy or reuse). Tailoring, if needed, varies by work.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Flowers:<\/strong> Corsage\/boutonniere often <strong>$20\u2013$60+<\/strong> depending on florals and extras.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Extras:<\/strong> Photos, dinner, transportation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Save:<\/strong> Reuse dress shoes, borrow a tie, choose separates, or skip flowers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"grooming-timeline\">Grooming timeline (haircut, skin, nails) for photo day<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Haircut:<\/strong> Aim for <strong>5\u20137 days<\/strong> before HOCO (short cuts 3\u20135 days) so it settles. If you love a fresh fade, 24\u201348 hours is fine.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Face:<\/strong> Start gentle exfoliation 1\u20132 weeks out; moisturize morning\/night; avoid brand-new products the week of.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Hands\/Nails:<\/strong> Trim and clean the day before\u2014hands show in corsage\/boutonniere photos.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"style-tips\">Inclusive style tips (sensory-friendly &amp; wheelchair-friendly)<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sensory-friendly:<\/strong> Look for soft, tagless shirts, smooth seams, and stretch waistbands. Try knit ties or skip ties in favor of a neat open collar + blazer if allowed.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Wheelchair-friendly:<\/strong> Prioritize comfort while seated\u2014slightly shorter jacket length, less bulk at the back, stretch fabrics, and hem pants to avoid catching on wheels. Magnetic or easy-closure shirts can help.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Shoes:<\/strong> Break them in at home; cushioned insoles help for long nights.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"last-minute-checklist\">Last-minute checklist<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Suit steamed &amp; lint-rolled<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shirt pressed (+ backup undershirt)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tie\/bow tie and pocket square packed<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Socks that match trousers; belt matches shoes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Boutonniere\/corsage pickup time set; pins in pocket<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Wallet, ID\/student ID, tickets<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Phone charged; portable charger<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Plan for photos, dinner, and a safe ride home<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Keep browsing: More HOCO ideas<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>What guys wear to Homecoming (outfit ideas on a budget): <a href=\"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/what-do-guys-wear-to-homecoming\/\">https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/what-do-guys-wear-to-homecoming\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>2025 HOCO trends for guys: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/homecoming-style-trends-for-guys-2025\/\">https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/blog\/homecoming\/homecoming-style-trends-for-guys-2025\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Shop Homecoming essentials: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/o\/homecoming-essentials\">https:\/\/www.menswearhouse.com\/o\/homecoming-essentials<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Last updated: August 27, 2025 Planning HOCO? This all-in-one FAQ covers dress codes, suit vs. tux, fit and tailoring, budget tips, flowers (corsages &amp; boutonnieres), grooming timing, inclusive style advice, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":21,"featured_media":7685,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[407],"tags":[385,366,401,336,319,335],"class_list":["post-7670","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-homecoming","tag-blazer","tag-dress-shoes","tag-pocket-square","tag-suit","tag-tie","tag-tuxedo","with-featured-image"],"acf":{"mw_seo_title":"Homecoming FAQ: What to Wear for Guys | Men\u2019s Wearhouse","mw_seo_description":"Homecoming answers from Men\u2019s Wearhouse: dress codes, suit vs. tux, color matching, sneakers, flowers, fit & tailoring, grooming, budgets, and 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