8 Celebrity-Inspired Suit Ideas to Elevate Your Prom Look

Prom night is approaching, and it’s time to find a perfect outfit to make you feel confident and look your best. While traditional formal wear is always a solid option, drawing inspiration from top celebrities takes your style up a notch. Choosingprom suits based on red-carpet styles transforms your look from basic to unforgettable, so let’s find your perfect celeb-inspired prom aesthetic!

Roman Samborskyi/Shutterstock.com

Why Celebrity Style Works for Prom

Celebrities work with professional stylists to create looks that photograph well and make a statement. Why not apply the same principles to your prom night, where photos will capture lifetime memories? The secret to putting together a celebrity-inspired look that’s totally “you” is finding inspiration that matches your style rather than copying a look.

1. Classic Hollywood with a Modern Twist

Timothée Chalamet has redefined men’s formal wear with his unique take on classic styles. His red-carpet appearances often feature sleek, tailored suits with unexpected details that feel simultaneously classic and contemporary.
For a Chalamet-inspired prom look, consider a slim fit black suit with satin lapels and a black turtleneck to create a sophisticated silhouette perfect for those who prefer a minimalist approach. Complete the look with leather Chelsea boots and a simple silver watch for subtle accessorizing.
Alternatively, take inspiration from his colorful moments, like his red 2022 Venice Film Festival suit. A burgundy or deep blue suit is a fresh take on formal wear that photographs beautifully.
Flawlessly channeling Chalamet’s style is all about the fit—his suits are always perfectly tailored to his frame, creating a modern, sleek silhouette. Whether buying a suit or opting for a tuxedo rental, allow enough time for alterations to achieve that custom-tailored look.

2. Bold Color Statements

Michael B. Jordan consistently demonstrates how to wear color in formal settings without looking out of place. If you want to make a statement at prom, his signature style is an excellent source of inspiration.
Consider a rich emerald green suit, crisp white shirt, and black bow tie for a striking look that will stand out in photos and turn heads for all the right reasons. For a more subtle approach, navy blue is a sophisticated alternative to traditional black.

3. Pattern Play

DFree/Shutterstock.com

Donald Glover has mastered the art of wearing patterns in formal settings, gracing red carpets while rocking subtle patterns that add visual interest without being overwhelming. For a Glover-inspired look, consider a jacket with a subtle pattern like a tonal check. Pair it with solid black men's dress pants for a balanced look.
Incorporating patterned accessories is another option. A patterned bow tie or pocket square adds a pop of personality toa suit or tux for prom.
When incorporating patterns, remember that less is more. Choose one patterned element and keep everything else solid.

4. Velvet Vibes

With his bold color choices and impeccable tailoring, Harry Styles has brought velvet suits back into the spotlight. This rich fabric creates a luxurious texture that catches the light beautifully in photos, making it an excellent choice for prom.
A black velvet jacket paired with matching trousers is a sophisticated look that’s perfect for formal events. Feeling more adventurous? Consider jewel tones like emerald green or navy blue.
Velvet works best when kept simple. Pair your velvet suit with a crisp dress shirt and minimal accessories to let the fabric’s texture shine. A simple blackbow tie and patent leather shoes complete the look without competing for attention.

5. Monochromatic Mastery

Rami Malek frequently opts for monochromatic looks that create a sleek, unified silhouette. For a modern take on formal wear, embrace his style with a black suit paired with a black dress shirt and black tie. This dramatic all-black ensemble is perfect for making a statement. For a slightly softer approach, navy blue or deep charcoal gray creates a similar effect.
The key to pulling off a monochromatic look is slightly varying textures and shades. Try combining a matte suit with a somewhat shinier shirt or using different shades of the same color to create subtle contrast.

6. Elegant White and Cream

Daniel Craig’s James Bond popularized the white dinner jacket for formal occasions, creating a classic and distinctive look. This style is ideal for spring proms, offering a fresh alternative to traditional black.
A cream or off-white dinner jacket paired with black trousers offers a striking contrast that is stunning in photos. Complete the look with a black bow tie and patent leather shoes for a classic Bond-inspired ensemble.
Consider incorporating white elements through your shirt or accessories if a white jacket feels too bold. A white formal shirt with black buttons or studs or a white pocket square subtly references the trend without overwhelming your look.

7. Textured Trends

John Boyega’s formalwear often features interesting patterns that create visual interest through fabric choices rather than bold colors or patterns. Make this look your own with a suit featuring textural elements like a subtle herringbone pattern or a slightly raised jacquard design. To maintain balance, pair textured elements with simple, solid accessories.
When shopping for prom outfits for guys, look for textured fabrics that catch the light in interesting ways. Subtle texture variations photograph beautifully and lend dimension to prom photos that flat fabrics can’t achieve.

8. Accessorizing Like a Star

Ovidiu Hrubaru/Shutterstock.com

If you prefer classic styles but still want to express your individuality, embrace Jake Gyllenhaal’s style. While he tends to prefer relatively simple suits, he takes his look to the next level with carefully chosen accessories.
Consider how watches, cufflinks, tie bars, and pocket squares can transform a basic suit. A vintage-inspired watch adds character, while modern cufflinks add a contemporary touch. These small details allow you to customize your look without committing to bold colors or patterns.
With accessories, quality matters more than quantity. Choose a few well-made pieces rather than overloading your outfit with too many elements.

By taking inspiration from these celebrity styles and adapting them to fit your style, you can create a prom look that feels timeless and uniquely yours. Whether you prefer classic elegance or bold self-expression, these celebrity-inspired ideas are a solid starting point for perfect prom memories.