So prom is coming up, and you need a suit. If you've never done this before, the whole process can feel overwhelming. Do you rent or buy? What color? What even is a pocket square? Don't worry—I've helped hundreds of guys through this, and it's actually pretty straightforward once you know the basics.
Start Earlier Than You Think
Here's the mistake I see all the time: waiting until two weeks before prom to start shopping. Bad idea. Popular sizes and styles sell out fast, especially if you're shopping during peak prom season (March through May). Give yourself at least 6-8 weeks. This gives you time to shop around, get alterations done, and not panic-buy something you'll regret.
Rent vs. Buy: Which Makes Sense?
If you'll only wear it once, renting makes financial sense. Rentals typically run $100-200 and include everything. But here's the thing—if you've got other formal events coming up (graduation, college formals, weddings), buying might be smarter. A decent suit you can wear multiple times costs $200-400 and actually belongs to you. Plus, bought suits usually fit better because you can get them tailored specifically for your body.
Color Choices That Won't Backfire
Classic black or navy will never let you down. They're timeless, photograph well, and you can wear them again without looking like you're stuck in 2025. If you want something bolder—burgundy, emerald, light blue—go for it, but make sure it's a color you actually like, not just what's trending on Instagram right now. And yes, you should coordinate with your date's dress, but you don't need to match exactly. Complementary colors look way better than matchy-matchy.
Fit Is Everything
This is where guys mess up the most. A cheap suit that fits well looks better than an expensive suit that doesn't. The shoulders should lie flat, sleeves should hit right at your wrist bone, and pants should just barely touch your shoes. If something feels tight or baggy, it probably is. Most stores offer free or cheap alterations—use them. Seriously, a $30 hem and sleeve adjustment can make a $200 suit look like $500.
What You Actually Need
At minimum: suit jacket, dress pants, dress shirt, tie or bow tie, dress shoes, and a belt. Nice-to-haves: pocket square, cufflinks, suspenders. Don't go overboard with accessories—you're going to prom, not a wedding. And please, make sure your shoes aren't sneakers. I've seen it happen.
The Bottom Line
Buying your first prom suit doesn't have to be stressful. Start early, focus on fit over flash, and choose something you feel confident in. You're going to remember these photos for years—make sure you look like yourself, just dressed up.