Heading off to a college formal? In this blog post, I will share college formal outfits for guys, wardrobe essentials for formal wear, and tips on picking the right suits.
Essentials
Whether you’re attending a prom, a formal dinner, or an awards ceremony. It’s essential to dress to impress. Take a look at some of the basic essentials for formal wear for college guys.
Classic Suits
A classic suit is a must-have in every guy’s formal wardrobe. Opt for a well-tailored suit in a timeless color like navy blue, charcoal gray, or black.
These colors exude sophistication and versatility, making them suitable for various formal occasions. Invest in a quality suit that fits you and you’ll never go wrong.
White Dress Shirt
The white dress shirt is a staple piece for any formal ensemble. It acts as a versatile canvas to build your outfit around.
Look for a shirt made from high-quality cotton with a crisp finish. Ensure it fits well and complements your suit.
A classic white dress shirt adds a touch of elegance and refinement to your look.
I wrote an entire blog post on the 11 best and only clothes for college guys – click here to read this.
Dress Pants
Complete your formal outfit with a pair of well-fitted dress pants. Pick a color that matches your suit. Remember, a perfect fit is key to looking polished and put together.
Dress Shoes
Don’t overlook the importance of footwear when it comes to formal events. Invest in a pair of classic dress shoes that are comfortable and stylish.
Black or brown Oxford shoes are timeless options that go well with almost any formal outfit. Ensure your shoes are clean and in good condition to elevate your look.
Chinos
For a more casual take on formal attire, chinos are an excellent alternative. Opt for well-tailored chinos in neutral tones like khaki, navy, or gray.
Pair them with a crisp dress shirt and a blazer suitable for semi-formal events.
Chinos are the perfect example of casual pants – I wrote an entire blog post on the best casual outfits for college guys. Click here to read
Loafers
If you want dressed-up shoes then loafers are the best pick. These slip-on shoes provide a relaxed yet refined touch to your outfit.
Pick black or brown because this will match many colors.
Understanding dress codes
Knowing how to navigate the different dress codes is essential. Take a look at the different dress codes to dress sharp every time.
- Casual Dress Code. For casual looks, you can dress up relaxed while maintaining neatness. Think of it as a step above everyday casual wear. A great example is pairing well-fitted jeans or chinos with a clean, collared shirt. Consider adding a casual blazer or a stylish cardigan to add a touch of sophistication. Complete the look with clean sneakers or leather loafers.
I wrote an entire post on styling semi-formal outfits and some tips – click here to read that
- Semi-Formal Dress Code: Consider this dressier than casual but not like a full suit. Opt for a tailored suit in a dark color like navy, charcoal, or black for these occasions. Pair it with a crisp, button-up dress shirt and a coordinating tie. You can also experiment with a well-fitted blazer or sports coat paired with dress pants. Complete the ensemble with classic leather oxfords or loafers.
- Formal Dress Code: Formal events demand more elegance and sophistication. For black-tie affairs, a tuxedo is a traditional choice. Opt for a black or midnight blue tuxedo, a white dress shirt, a black bowtie, and patent leather shoes.
Choosing the right suit
Finding the perfect suit that complements your body type and fits your budget can be a daunting task. Take a look at tips and insights to help you choose a suit that upgrades your style.
Understanding Your Body Type
Identifying your body shape is the key to picking a perfect suit. Different body types need different suits.
Click Here To Read Blog Post – How to find suits that fits your body shape
The Perfect Fit
A well-fitting suit can elevate your style and boost your confidence. A well-fitting suit should enhance your silhouette and provide a sharp, tailored appearance.
Tailoring adjustments may be necessary to achieve the perfect fit.
Budget Option
For college guys, it’s hard to find clothes, especially suits. Zara, H&M, Asos, and Uniqlo are some places to shop.
Click here to find out the best shopping places for college guys
Choosing the Right Fabric and Color
The fabric and color of your suit play a crucial role.
Navy Blue, Charcoal Grey, and Black are some best colors. For Material Wool, Cotton, and Linen is best.
Accessories
No outfit is complete without the right accessories and finishing touches. Watch, Pocket Square, Necktie or Bowtie, and Cufflink are some great accessories.
