Quick Answer: How Do I Dress for a Prom Theme?
Hint at the theme rather than wearing a costume. Start with a great suit or tux, then bring in the theme through colour, texture or one or two accessories:
- Great Gatsby / Old Hollywood: black tux, bow tie, three-piece styling
- Retro: pastel suit with a floral or patterned shirt
- Enchanted forest / fairytale: green, burgundy or jewel-tone suit
- Hollywood glam / Met Gala: all black or a bold statement suit
- Masquerade: black or midnight navy with a mask in your accent colour
- Tropical / summer nights: light suit with a floral shirt or pocket square
Your prom committee picked a theme, and now you need an outfit that fits. The trick is to nod to the theme without looking like you're in costume. Here's what to wear for the most popular prom themes.
Great Gatsby and Old Hollywood
These themes are all about classic glamour.
What to wear: a black tuxedo with satin peak lapels, a crisp white shirt and a black bow tie. Make it three-piece with a vest for an extra 1920s touch. Add cufflinks and a white pocket square folded flat.
Retro (70s, 80s or 90s)
Throwback themes are an excuse to have fun with colour.
What to wear: a pastel suit in light blue, blush or lilac with a floral or patterned dress shirt. Shop prom pastels, and see why guys love pastel prom suits.
Enchanted Forest, Fairytale or Starry Night
Magical themes call for rich, deep colours.
What to wear: jewel tones like dark green, burgundy or deep purple. Pair with a black shirt for a moody look or a white shirt for something classic. A floral or metallic pocket square adds a touch of magic.
Hollywood Glam and Met Gala
Fashion-forward themes reward bold choices.
What to wear: an all-black look with a black suit and black dress shirt, or a statement suit in a standout colour. See our guide to all-black prom outfits.
Masquerade
Mystery and elegance go together.
What to wear: a black or midnight navy suit or tux with a black shirt or white shirt, and a mask in your accent colour (gold, silver, red or dark green). Match your tie or pocket square to the mask.
Tropical Paradise or Summer Nights
Light and breezy is the goal.
What to wear: a light grey or tan suit with a floral shirt or pocket square. Skip the tie or go with a light, summery colour.
How to Hint at Any Theme
If your theme isn't on this list, use these quick ideas:
- Pick up the theme's colour in your tie, pocket square or vest.
- Add a themed lapel pin or boutonniere.
- Keep the suit classic so the accent stands out.
FAQ
Do I have to dress for my prom theme?
No. A classic suit or tux always works. Matching the theme is optional, and a single accent is usually enough.
What should I wear to a Great Gatsby prom?
A black tuxedo, white shirt and black bow tie, ideally with a vest. Add cufflinks and a white pocket square.
What colour suit for an enchanted forest prom?
Dark green, burgundy and deep purple all look magical, especially with metallic or floral accents.
Find Your Theme Look at Tip Top
Explore prom suits, tuxedos and accessories, or plan your look in the Prom Shop. Want help in person? Find one of our 80+ locations across Canada.
