Written by Sonia Su

Homecoming, like prom night, is an exciting milestone for high school students, and for guys, choosing the perfect attire can be one of the most important decisions they have to make during this period. From one's first suit to stylish casual wear, navigating the ideal outfit for this formal event can be both fun and challenging.

This article offers tips and insights on a guy's homecoming attire to help make a statement and feel confident at the homecoming dance.

 

What is Homecoming?

High school homecoming is a traditional event in many American high schools that typically includes a football game, a dance, and various festivities. It's often a celebration welcoming back former students, showcasing school spirit, and fostering a sense of community.

Originated in the early 20th century, homecoming was initially as a way to bring alumni back to their alma mater for football games. The University of Missouri is credited with holding the first homecoming event in 1911.

It gradually evolved into a tradition encompassing not only football games but also parades, dances, and other festivities aimed at fostering school spirit and community pride.

Over time, high schools adopted this tradition, organizing homecoming events to welcome back alumni, engage current students in spirited activities, and celebrate the school's history and achievements. Today, homecoming remains a cherished tradition in many high schools across the country, celebrating unity, pride, and the school's legacy.

During homecoming week, students engage in themed dress-up days, pep rallies, parades, and other activities leading up to the culminating events: the football game, where alumni are invited, and the formal or semi-formal dance, where students dress up and enjoy an evening of music and socializing.

 

Homecoming vs Prom: What are the Differences?

Homecoming and prom are both significant high school events in the United States, but they differ in various aspects.

Occasion and Timing

Homecoming usually occurs earlier in the school year, often in the fall, and typically includes a football game, spirit week, and a dance. It's a celebration welcoming back alumni and fostering school spirit. Prom, on the other hand, happens later in the school year, closer to spring or the end of the academic year, and is considered a formal dance to celebrate the culmination of the school year.

Attire Formality

While both events involve dressing up, prom tends to be more formal. Prom attire often includes elegant gowns for girls and tuxedos or formal suits for guys. Homecoming attire can range from semi-formal to more casual, depending on the school's traditions and the specific event.

Duration and Scope

Homecoming festivities often span a week with various activities leading up to the dance, including themed dress-up days, pep rallies, and parades. Prom is typically a single evening event, with the focus primarily on the formal dance itself.

Event Significance

Homecoming is a celebration of school pride, often involving current students and alumni, and includes various activities centered around the school community. Prom is seen as a more romantic or formal event, symbolizing the end of the academic year, and often holds sentimental value for many students.

 

How to Put Together a Homecoming Outfit

Classic Suit

Consider a well-tailored, formal dark suit jacket in navy, charcoal, or black paired with a crisp white dress shirt, a coordinating tie or bowtie, and dress pants. This timeless look exudes sophistication during homecoming season. Our list of favorite suit brands here.

Try classic color combos like a blue suit with brown shoes or a grey suit with a black shirt.

Check out Nimble Made's professional dress shirts and bestselling dress shirts, which are especially slim fit with their smaller and slimmer sizes that fit younger teens for events like this. Be sure to consult the fit guide to ensure you'll be best dressed for the occasion.

Don't just take our word for it. Here is what one parent had to say about Nimble Made's dark blue printed dress shirt:

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A great fit for my son!

"These shirts look amazing for my 13yr old son who has a hard time finding something that fits perfectly as he is too big for kids but still a little small for adults. This is the perfect shirt! Looks great on him!" -Lilian

Smart Casual

Opt for a suit jacket or sports jacket paired with chinos or dress pants for smart casual attire. Combine this with a button down shirt or a sweater for a polished yet relaxed vibe. Here are guides on chino pants and sport coat vs blazer.

Vest and Slacks

A three-piece suit with a vest can add a touch of elegance. Pair it with dress slacks and a tie or bowtie to complete the ensemble.

Dapper Tuxedo

For a more formal or black tie affair, a sleek tuxedo with a bowtie or a classic tie can make a bold statement.

Here are our recommended best ties for men that are affordable and durable.

Browse Nimble Made's men's slim ties and tie clips that pair perfectly with their slim-fit dress shirts.

Fashionable Yet Casual

Consider a stylish suit jacket paired with well-fitted jeans or trousers. Add a trendy shirt or sweater to complete this laid-back yet fashionable homecoming outfit.

 

Tips on What to Wear to Homecoming

• Understand the Dress Code: Ensure you know if the event has a specific dress code (formal, semi-formal, casual) to help guide you in finding the proper attire.
• Classic vs. Trendy: Opt for classic styles like a well-fitted suit jacket or dress shirt and slacks, but don’t shy away from adding trendy elements to show your personal style.
  
• Comfort is Key: Choose attire that not only looks good but also feels comfortable. You'll likely be dancing and moving around, so wear shoes that you can move in comfortably.
• Coordinate Colors: If you have a date or are attending with friends, consider coordinating colors or themes in your outfits without completely matching. This can create a cohesive look without being overly uniform.
• Grooming Matters: Pay attention to grooming details such as a neat haircut, clean shoes, and well-ironed clothes to complete your overall look.
  
• Accessorize Thoughtfully: Consider adding accessories like a tie, pocket square, watch, or cufflinks to elevate your outfit without going overboard. Browse Nimble Made's pocket squares, such as this gold silk pocket square, and our guide on how to pin a boutonniere.
  
• Plan Ahead: Try on your outfit beforehand to ensure everything fits well and looks how you want. This gives you time to make any adjustments if needed.
• Express Yourself: Don't be afraid to showcase your personality through your attire. Whether it's a unique tie, a statement accessory, colors, or a particular style, let your outfit reflect who you are.

Remember, the key is to feel confident and comfortable in what you wear while adhering to the event's dress code and considering your personal style. Don't forget to check out our article on what to wear to a conference for more outfit inspiration.

 

Frequently Asked Questions about Homecoming Outfits for Guys

What do guys usually wear to homecoming?

For homecoming, guys typically wear dressy attire. Most commonly, they opt for a suit or a tuxedo, often paired with a dress shirt and tie or bow tie. Some might choose a blazer and dress pants if they prefer a slightly less formal look. It’s a great opportunity to dress up, so aim for something that makes you feel confident and sharp!

What do high schoolers wear to homecoming?

High schoolers usually go all out for homecoming, with attire ranging from semi-formal to formal. For guys, this often means suits or tuxedos, while girls commonly wear cocktail dresses or long gowns. The key is to coordinate with your date or group, if applicable, and follow any specific dress codes set by your school. Overall, it’s about dressing up and enjoying the celebration!

Do you wear a suit or tux to homecoming?

Whether you choose a suit or a tuxedo for homecoming depends on your personal style and how formal you want to be. A tuxedo is typically more formal and is a great choice for a classic, elegant look. A suit is slightly less formal but still very stylish. Both options are perfectly acceptable, so pick what feels right for you!

Is it okay to wear jeans to homecoming?

Generally, jeans are not considered appropriate for homecoming, as it’s a formal event. Most people opt for dressier attire like suits, tuxedos, or formal dresses. Wearing jeans might not align with the event’s dress code or the celebratory vibe, so it's best to go with something more polished and festive.