Post by: TMM on May 03, 2007, 11:04:19 AM
"i've got a question for you. are you going to prom?"
"Oh, no, i can't because i'm a sophomore..."
"oh, i know, so how'd you like to go with me?"
*big smile, etc* "really?!"
"Yes, definately!"
"oh, yay! hug!"
*hugs*
yea... it was a good day.
So, the questions. i'm in the dark as to clothing, etiquitte, etc. the questions that i have off the top of my head are...
1) Clothing. i have a quite nice pinstripe [black with grey and dark blue stripe] two piece suit, which i am considering adding a matching pinstripe vest, if i can find it, or a simple black one. under that, a button up shirt and a tie. what color should those be? i was thinking all black, or throw some dark red in there. think that would be SUITable? [haha...] of course, my Knox grey felt fedora comes with. then to shoes: i've got a pair of black wingtips which i think would be good, or also oxblood semi-wingtip[shorter toe but still pointy]. any thoughts there? of course, i could rent a tux, but i want to stand out from the crowd and be a little different.not to mention, i think they're somewhat unsightly, hah.
2) my dad said i should get a corsage [sp?] for her. you know, those little flower deals. yes/no? comments?
3) i'd like to think i'm half-decent on etiquette, but anything i should keep in mind? opening doors, pulling out chairs, etc?
hmm... that's all i can think of. any other suggestions welcomed, of course.
thanks,
~tmm
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 03, 2007, 11:16:06 AM
I'd avoid the black on black on black. It's "hip" but can make you look like you're going for "gangster".
Nothing wrong with a nice white dress shirt (wear a tee underneath). I'm not a big fan of vests with single-breasted suits myself. The tie should "pop", this is formal, but it is a party, have a little fun with it. Burlington has a nice selection of decent ties for not a lot of cash. Have you thought about a pocket square? That is stylin'!
Good choice on the Knox.
You might check out thefedoralounge.com forum for some ideas on accessorizing.
Post by: TMM on May 03, 2007, 11:44:51 AM
a wrist corsage eh? hever heard of it, i'll look into it.
white shirt, alright, can do that. would it be incorrect to wear a black tee underneath? i only have black, and one grey and one blue.
now, i'm awful with ties. the one i pick that i think looks cool could in reality be terrible. what general design should i go for?
pocket square. like those little folded up handkerchiefs? sure, i'd like one of those. is there a proper way to fold them, and where might i find some?
thanks,
~tmm
Post by: K Frame on May 03, 2007, 11:44:54 AM
Talk to your friends and find out what they're wearing.
I, and most of my classmates, wore tuxes to our prom.
Post by: De Selby on May 03, 2007, 12:01:13 PM
Post by: BrokenPaw on May 03, 2007, 12:06:40 PM
I concur with the no black-on-black-on-black. In addition to making you look like a potential gangster-wannabe, it basically makes your face and hands be the only non-black parts of you. Especially if you're white or light-skinned, this makes your head look like it's floating and gives you disembodied hands. The effect is worse in a dark or dimmed room (as many prom ballrooms are).
I second the suggestion about a wrist corsage; there is nothing more unnerving than arriving to pick the young lady up with a standard pin-on corsage, and discovering that she's in a strapless dress, and her parents are expecting you to pin the corsage on her, and you have two equally bad options: You can stab her in the breast with a wicked-long floral pin, or you can guide the pin from the back, with your hand. Which means that you're putting your hand down her dress. In front of her parents. Depending on what sort of sense of humor her dad has, he'll either be laughing at you behind his hand, or reaching for his Mossberg.
No, I don't have first-hand (so to speak) experience in this matter, why?
As far as etiquette goes, this is a formal occasion, so formal etiquette applies: opening doors, holding her chair for her, and all of that. Caveat: If she objects to that sort of thing, don't push it. (For instance, if she gets to the door first and opens it for you, don't argue the point; it'll seem boorish...just thank her and move on).
Good luck and have fun...
-BP
Post by: TMM on May 03, 2007, 12:28:12 PM
i definately think i'll veer from the tux. it's too standard, and like carebear said, it is a party atmosphere, albeit formal. any more input on shirt/vest[?]/tie/shoes? FWIW, i'm relatively light skinned, ponytailed brown hair, about 6'2".
shootinstudent, whatcha mean by imitation walking stick? you just mean some cheap dime-store POS that has no style? don't worry about that, i probably won't be taking a cane, seeing i don't have one.
~tmm
Post by: Strings on May 03, 2007, 01:53:10 PM
One suggestion on the tie: find out what color her dress is, and go with that. Match the pocket square there too.
And NO on the black tee: get thee to Sprawlmart, and spring for a pack of white tees (trust me, they WILL come in handy later in life).
etiquette? Be a gentleman, and everything else will fall into place...
Post by: Venus Envy on May 03, 2007, 02:42:45 PM
I recommend a tux if your bank account can handle it. Ask her what color dress she is wearing, and get a bow tie that will coordinate with it.
Yes, get her a wrist coursage. Have the florist make it to match her dress.
Make a dinner reservation for someplace nice. And be a gentleman.
Post by: Sindawe on May 03, 2007, 05:22:20 PM
And another vote for the wrist corsage. Of course you open the door for you lady friend, and pull out chairs, fetch drinks and the like. If you can, make an evening of it go to a nice restaurant for dinner before hand, with reservations. DON'T pull the faux pas one of the underclassmen in my High School did and take your date to Arby's for dinner.
Post by: Mabs2 on May 03, 2007, 05:42:41 PM
Never cared to either!
But then again, I was a lonely bitter old man in high school.
Post by: charby on May 03, 2007, 05:52:40 PM
Rent a tux, ask your date what color her dress is, if you can get a color swatch of her dress.
For the tux, get a dinner jacket, tails are fun but get in way. Go with black or dark gray. Use the color swatch to match it to a vest and tie. Black shoes, black socks and a shirt that is light in color but complements the tie and vest. Cummerbunds are a no-no and scream 1984. Skip the hat, cane and cape. Go for a classy look.
For dinner take her to a nice place you can afford, don't do any of the chain restaurants, try to find a locally owned place that is nice, doesn't have to be the most expensive but don't do a burger place.
Borrow you folk's nice car.
Roses are overrated, think about a orchid for a corsage, wrist corsage is the only way to go. She will probably get you a boutonniere for your lapel.
Be a perfect gentleman, open doors, refer to her mom and dad as mr or mrs <insert lastname>. Be willing to be in lots of pictures at her parents and at your parents.
Most of all stay sober, it will keep you from being a jackass, getting arrested and f**king up the rest of your life.
Enjoy the evening, PROM is probably going to be the first time you really formally dress up.
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 03, 2007, 05:54:35 PM
The fedora IS classy. He's got a real Knox, not some hipster wannabe crap-hat.
White t-shirt young Jedi. Buy a 3 pack. I'd go with the black shoes for a formal.
Great suggestion by Strings on matching or complementing the dress color with the tie and square, However, you don't necessarily want the tie and square to be part of a set (there's ongoing debate, it is vintage, but some folks think it's gauche).
Black suit and white shirt, you can't go wrong with a white silk or linen square (Burlington has silk ones (of all colors) as singles and in sets with ties. There are a couple threads in General Attire and Accoutrements on pocket squares and how to fold or not fold them. I usually just stuff 'em in devil-may-care.
As far as which tie? That's tough without pictures. You could go with a solid color that ties into her dress or get one that has a pattern with a touch of her color in it, simpler is usually better. You can get a patterned square that picks up the tie and her dress.
The classic corsage, very vintage, very classy, is a gardenia.
Post by: Sindawe on May 03, 2007, 06:29:44 PM
Quote
Most of all stay sober, it will keep you from being a jackass, getting arrested and f**king up the rest of your life.
That bears repeating, so I repeat it again.
Quote
Most of all stay sober, it will keep you from being a jackass, getting arrested and f**king up the rest of your life.
Being a jackass or getting arrested on prom for DUI should be the least of your worries.
About nine years or so after I graduated from H.S. the younger brother of a H.S. friend supplied EtOH to some of his lower classmen buddies for their prom. All four (two boys, two girls) died that night in an automobile accident due to the driver being drunk. The younger brother spent some time in prison because of it, messed HIS life up and a few years later OD'd on some narcotic he was using as an escape mechanism.
Not trying to be a buzz-kill, but its best to NOT drink before/during/after such functions.
Post by: Headless Thompson Gunner on May 03, 2007, 09:00:14 PM
A wrist corsage is a necessity. Orchids make for a great corsage, but they're expensive. Make sure your florist doesn't embellish the corsage with all sorts of glitter and spray paint and ribbon and trinkets and crap. You want beuatiful flowers and greenery, nothing else.
The old chivalry-type etiquette (opening doors for her, standing at the dinner table whenever she stands, etc) are sorta sketchy these days. I've had women get pissy at me for doing that sort of thing ("I can open my own doors, thankyouverymuch!"). Best to start off the night making those gestures and watch to see how she reacts, then adapt accordingly.
General etiquette, being polite such-like, is mandatory. Be confident, courteous, and respectful at all times.
Give her parents their due. Introduce yourself, tell them your plans for the evening, and ask if they approve. If you have a cell phone give them your number.
Make dinner reservations NOW! Don't wait.
If your town has a nice chocolate shop or confectioners, taker your date there after dinner. Some men ply their women with booze, others with money. This is tacky and crude. Smart men use chocolate.
Don't hit your date over head with a sledgehammer. I learned that one the hard way.
Don't agonize over all of the details. Just relax. Go and have a good time. Don't take yourself too seriously.
Post by: Vodka7 on May 03, 2007, 10:39:47 PM
.)As for the etiquette rules, I'd say go for opening the door (especially with the car), but most women I know are uncomfortable having a man pull out/push in their chair for them. Always offer her your arm; she'll be in heels and may or may not be used to them. Regardless, it's a thoughtful gesture.
Keep everything you could possibly need that night in your car--make sure you've got a huge golf umbrella in your trunk, along with a full change of clothes. Not formal clothes mind you, but something more comfortable for the post-prom parties. Don't forget sneakers.
If you are going to be drinking, make sure you and your date have a place to sleep it off. (Although, considering she's only a sophomore, it's a much better choice to skip the booze altogether and just make sure you each get home safe and sound.)
Also, be patient with your mom. Try on a million outfits. Take a million pictures. Let her pick the corsage. It's a pain, but prom isn't just for you and your date.
Post by: Ex-MA Hole on May 04, 2007, 12:57:45 AM
Ever.
-----------------------------------------------------------
Suggestion for brownie points?
If she is wearing a dress, after you open the car door for her- DO NOT SKIP THIS STEP- HER DAD WILL BE WATCHING TO MAKE SURE YOU DO THIS- watch her. If she seems to even momentarily think about how to get in the car because of her dress, offer her a hand.
This simple gesture shows that you are actually thinking about her.
------------------------------------------------------------
As far as tie colors, etc. If you can swing it, I'd rent a tux. It's the right occasion.
If not, find a local "Gentleman's Warehouse" or "Simms" or place like that. Bring in your suit, and ask them to help you pick a tie.
White T-Shirt underneath. V neck one will work best.
The only other practical advice I have for you, my young friend, will take you far further than this night.
Listen to her. Your inate desire as a late teen will be to be cool in front of your friends. Remember, you asked this young lady to attend a formal dance with you. Treat her as a Queen, without being a jackass about it.
As a rule, I try to try a Woman as a lady, until she proves otherwise. That will get you far in life. If she is special to you, treat her that way.
Post by: Perd Hapley on May 04, 2007, 03:07:48 AM
A well-chosen, well-tailored suit, made in the right style and color, can be very classy.
Post by: K Frame on May 04, 2007, 04:38:34 AM
So was I, but I still went to the prom.
I'm sort of ambivilent on the corsage being a wrist model...
I accidentally nailed my date in the boob while pinning her corsage on her.
Later that night I got to kiss it and make it better.
Post by: Ex-MA Hole on May 04, 2007, 06:22:21 AM
Post by: K Frame on May 04, 2007, 07:23:00 AM
snifff......I just love happy endings....
"Insert happy ending here.
Again and again."
I wonder where she is these days...
Post by: Ex-MA Hole on May 04, 2007, 07:53:13 AM
Post by: K Frame on May 04, 2007, 08:01:38 AM
She was used to gun-toting crazies...
Post by: mtnbkr on May 04, 2007, 08:06:44 AM
She was used to gun-toting crazies...
Mebbe so, but it was still *you*.
Chris
Post by: charby on May 04, 2007, 09:33:21 AM
snifff......I just love happy endings....
"Insert happy ending here.
Again and again."
I wonder where she is these days...
Probably spent 18 or so years caring for your spawn child.
Post by: Strings on May 04, 2007, 09:37:19 AM
Post by: K Frame on May 04, 2007, 10:29:58 AM
She was used to gun-toting crazies...
Mebbe so, but it was still *you*.
Chris
You think I was crazy? You should have seen her in bed when she... no, can't relate that here... or when she... whoa! You're WAY too young to hear about that...
Post by: K Frame on May 04, 2007, 10:31:00 AM
That I know for a fact is not true.
Post by: The Viking on May 04, 2007, 10:32:15 AM
Not throwing up and stuff, but...still a bit embarrasing.
Post by: Boomhauer on May 04, 2007, 01:13:42 PM
Standard tux. Nothing fancy $90. I don't dress up that much. Black vest, Jacket, trousers and bow tie. She wore a black and white dress. I like a simple, clean cut tux.
Corsage: Wrist type, matched dress. $16
Supper: Chain restaurant, $25
Don't drink. Don't try to get lucky with her. Treat her like a lady. Open doors, seat her, etc. Get a couple of disposable cameras (don't have to worry about batteries or film). If the punch tastes funny, don't drink it.
Don't try to look like a pimp, as all the other jackasses do.
Now, the girl I dated and took to the prom was a pretty good looking brunette who was a year older than me.
Post by: Headless Thompson Gunner on May 04, 2007, 01:52:30 PM
Post by: Strings on May 04, 2007, 03:02:10 PM
Complete with pictures: such a report is worthless without pics...
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 04, 2007, 10:32:22 PM
No pressure, but first prom? This will be the event of her young life, probably until marriage.
Again, no pressure.
Post by: AmbulanceDriver on May 05, 2007, 05:26:55 AM
One other thing to remember: asking if you can help clan whatever gun it is the father threatens you with DOES help win points...
Slight thread drift, but kinda on topic... Dated a young lady that was a few years younger than I was.... Her parents weren't overly happy with it at first, but eventually realized I wasn't a creep or wannabe pedophile.... (She was 17, I was 21)
When we first started dating, her parents invited me over to dinner so they could get to know me a little better... No biggie, wasn't too nervous.....
Arrive on time, ring the doorbell, her dad opens the door. and he's wearing a revolver on his hip....
I *think* he was trying to intimidate me.... But it really backfired.........
I look at the revolver, look at him, and ask, "38?"
He looks at me, a little perplexed.... "Yeah....."
Point to it, "May I?"
Now he's really perplexed... "Ummm. Ok...."
And he hands it to me... Muzzle first. Pointing at my gut. I gently push it sideways a little as I take it... And then the internal debate happens. "Do I play nice, or do I pop his ego bubble a little bit............."
I decided to pop his bubble a little... All one handed (was holding some flowers for her mom in my left hand) I did a little cowboy flip to get the butt in my hand, popped open the cylinder, made sure it was empty, flicked the cylinder closed (yes, this was before I knew that it wasn't nice to do that to revolvers.... blame the movies), did the little cowboy flip again so I was holding onto the barrel and handed it to him butt first.... Looked him right in the eye and all I said was "Nice.... I like it..."
He took the holster off, put the gun back in it, and turned and walked back into the house without saying a word...
Talking to the girl later, she said that he had been so sure that I'd be quaking in my boots when I saw that revolver.... I almost felt bad for doing that.... *Almost*.....
Post by: Strings on May 05, 2007, 02:24:33 PM
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 05, 2007, 02:53:27 PM
I was talking to her about something random and suddenly, in the background, I hear the sound of an elk bugling.
So I asked her, "Is that an elk hunting video?"
She then asked her father (in her sweet Southern accent) "Daaaddy, Ma-thew wants to know if that's an elk huntin' video."
Even though I was 18 and she 16, I was IN!
Thanks to "Wild Kingdom" and Marlin Perkins.
Post by: TMM on May 05, 2007, 05:32:30 PM
The Hat definately comes with me. period.
now, tux vs. suit? hoo boy. a rental or ebay job is about the same price, rental might even be a bit more. you all brought up very good points with it being a formal occasion yet fun, perhaps allowing for some flair here and there... it's the question of spending about $70 more... but hey, i only do it once....hmmm.
carebear: thanks for the encouraging advice...
thompson gunner: you got it! for all this help, you guys deserve it.
I would go to a nice dinner place before prom [they'd be closed after] but we're having dinner at prom. just now i considered meeting at a coffeeshop first, but our attire would be out of place.
ok, do-list for Monday is to ask what her dress color is, and perhaps see if she wants to do something before or after...
g'night...
~tmm
Post by: RevDisk on May 06, 2007, 06:30:09 PM
So, the questions. i'm in the dark as to clothing, etiquitte, etc. the questions that i have off the top of my head are...
1) Clothing. i have a quite nice pinstripe [black with grey and dark blue stripe] two piece suit, which i am considering adding a matching pinstripe vest, if i can find it, or a simple black one. under that, a button up shirt and a tie. what color should those be? i was thinking all black, or throw some dark red in there. think that would be SUITable? [haha...] of course, my Knox grey felt fedora comes with. then to shoes: i've got a pair of black wingtips which i think would be good, or also oxblood semi-wingtip[shorter toe but still pointy]. any thoughts there? of course, i could rent a tux, but i want to stand out from the crowd and be a little different.not to mention, i think they're somewhat unsightly, hah.
2) my dad said i should get a corsage [sp?] for her. you know, those little flower deals. yes/no? comments?
3) i'd like to think i'm half-decent on etiquette, but anything i should keep in mind? opening doors, pulling out chairs, etc?
1) Clothing. i have a quite nice pinstripe [black with grey and dark blue stripe] two piece suit, which i am considering adding a matching pinstripe vest, if i can find it, or a simple black one. under that, a button up shirt and a tie. what color should those be? i was thinking all black, or throw some dark red in there. think that would be SUITable? [haha...] of course, my Knox grey felt fedora comes with. then to shoes: i've got a pair of black wingtips which i think would be good, or also oxblood semi-wingtip[shorter toe but still pointy]. any thoughts there? of course, i could rent a tux, but i want to stand out from the crowd and be a little different.not to mention, i think they're somewhat unsightly, hah.
2) my dad said i should get a corsage [sp?] for her. you know, those little flower deals. yes/no? comments?
3) i'd like to think i'm half-decent on etiquette, but anything i should keep in mind? opening doors, pulling out chairs, etc?
Go with a wrist corsage, like everyone else has said. Do not buy one with too many fancy frills, just something very nice looking. If you can, spring for orchids. If not, color coordinate with her dress. Trust me, she'll keep it for a long time and the extras don't hold up well. It'll be very important to her.
If you want bonus points, a single long stem (dehorned) rose in addition to the corsage. White would be preferable if you don't know the parents. Red only if the parents already approve of you. Double bonus points if you bring something simple but nice for her mother.
Rent a tux. Trust me, simple and easy. Go with something simple, do NOT rent a pimp suit. I'd recommend a dark grey suit to go with the fedora. If not, a black suit with a grey vest wouldn't be bad. Pin stripes aren't bad either, just don't go with heavy contrast pin stripes. Black dress shoes with black socks never go wrong. Wear the shoes before hand to make sure they're ok. I'd vote for a solid color tie to match the outfit, with a Three-point Fold pocket square with the color matching her dress.
It doesn't matter what everyone else does, focus on the lady. Be polite and courtious, but don't go over the top. Behavior wise, just see what she enjoys, and go with it. Do not show off to your buddies. If they act stupid and you don't, guess who gets the most bonus points with the ladies? Speaking of which, no alcohol.
I went to prom twice. First time went with a black suit, grey vest. My older brother ended up marrying my date's older sister. That was interesting. My brother and I had to negiotate strict rules on what information we passed on to the sisters. One bit of advice I got was to keep a handkerchief in each pocket. The thought being if that you get sweaty palms from being nervous, you can dry them discreetly. Kinda worked out, as dancing in a tux isn't exactly natural.
Second time, wore my dress uniform and my beret. The young lady's brother had been in our unit and had died in our unit. We took care of our own. Plus she had broken up with her then boyfriend because she was enlisting after graduation. Didn't have to worry about an annoyed father with a Mossberg, if I acted untowards, I'd be facing automatic weapons with bayonets mounted. Last word I got back was that she's now a Sgt, just got back from a deployment.
Quote
now, tux vs. suit? hoo boy. a rental or ebay job is about the same price, rental might even be a bit more. you all brought up very good points with it being a formal occasion yet fun, perhaps allowing for some flair here and there... it's the question of spending about $70 more... but hey, i only do it once....hmmm.
I still stand by renting a tux. Thing is, you can hit multiple tux rental shops to rent the perfect tux. Ebay job may be hit or miss.
Post by: CNYCacher on May 06, 2007, 10:59:06 PM
Quote
"I can open my own doors, thankyouverymuch!"
"I'll bet you can dance by yourself and find a ride home too!"
Post by: Stickjockey on May 07, 2007, 10:55:54 AM
Now: I'm gonna have to divert from the standard tux vs. suit debate. You uwant to be formal, yet stand out from the crowd, and do it in style?
Rent a kilt and Prince Charlie.
This from kiltrental.com
Post by: Jamisjockey on May 07, 2007, 11:05:12 AM
When I went to my prom I dragged my formal mastadon skin out of the closet...
Talk to your friends and find out what they're wearing.
I, and most of my classmates, wore tuxes to our prom.
Liar! We all know it was a formal loin-cloth! And clubbing meant whacking a woman over the head and dragging her back to the cave!Talk to your friends and find out what they're wearing.
I, and most of my classmates, wore tuxes to our prom.
Post by: Ex-MA Hole on May 07, 2007, 12:05:56 PM
Yes, you can get away with wearing a suit, but it is SUPPOSED to be something special and out of the ordinary.
(Maybe I have to dress up so much that a suit is not that out of the ordinary for me?)
Listen very carefully.
DO NOT DRINK.
NOTHING.
As a group, we will fly to your house and kick your....
No booze. Nary a drop.
You WILL regret it later.
Trust me.
Post by: Strings on May 07, 2007, 12:47:17 PM
DEFINATELY the thing to wear to stand out, and attract the ladies' attention. If worn, just remember: the only person who's supposed to see what's underneath is your wife: all others are supposed to check by feel...
Post by: Moondoggie on May 07, 2007, 01:19:29 PM
If you decide to go with a traditional corsage instead of a wrist arrangement and find that the pinning-on situation might become embarrasing, hand it off to her mother and ask her to do the honors. THAT says "Class" to her parents.
All the other stuff...don't try and get lucky, be a gentleman, DON'T DRINK ALCOHOL.
Remember, this night is a mega big deal for her...being asked-out by an upperclassman makes her a major winner in her peer group, but only if it goes well. NEVER, NEVER, NEVER leave her standing alone at the event so you can "hang with your buds"! Make sure that you are polite, respectful, and attentive to HER. If you really like this girl and think there might be potential for a relationship being on your very best behavior portends good things for the future. Even if you don't think "She's the ONE", if you act untoward in any way, all of her friends are gonna hear all about it.
If you're not absolutely sure that you really know how to dance.....LEARN NOW! Get an older girl as a tutor if need be. Make sure that you know how to slow dance, too.
Oh, yeah...no pressure and HAVE FUN!
GOOD LUCK!
Post by: Strings on May 07, 2007, 01:23:41 PM
?
Post by: Perd Hapley on May 07, 2007, 01:52:02 PM
Post by: TMM on May 07, 2007, 02:39:09 PM
No, i'm not going to wear a kilt...
I like the handkerchief in each pocket... good idea.
Dancing: anyone know of some good websites where i can get some preliminary info?
now - i know the color of her dress and i need to find a [bow??] tie. her dress is a "peachy-salmon" color - good opportinity to put a splash of color in my attire. any suggestions/patterns/etc?
she took well to the idea of going to dinner before or after. this friday i may ask her to a coffeeshop to get to know each other and shake my nervous jitters.
thanks, and you'll get a story and pictures after the event!
~tmm
Post by: Strings on May 07, 2007, 03:13:45 PM
Post by: Perd Hapley on May 07, 2007, 04:59:51 PM
Post by: Strings on May 07, 2007, 05:26:13 PM
Post by: Bogie on May 07, 2007, 09:17:57 PM
Let HER pick your clothing. Unless she's completely lacking in taste - then, go to a tux rental, and tell them that you want a SIMPLE BLACK TIE-TYPE TUX. It won't cost much, and it'll be worth it, since you won't look like a complete idjit when the 20th reunion pix come out.
Get her home 1/2 hour after the prom, or her daddy's gonna do things to you that'll make that Hostel movie look G-rated...
Post by: Perd Hapley on May 07, 2007, 09:27:59 PM
All it "takes" to "pull off wearing a kilt" is confidence. No real big trick to it...
Yeah, and some people don't have it.
Post by: Vodka7 on May 07, 2007, 10:56:35 PM
My younger brother and I went through the exact same issue. What you'll find is that no menswear looks good in peachy-salmon. Go with silver, instead. Chances are her shoes will be silver, and even if not, it matches everything. Better to look good on your own than to attempt to match and not look good with anything.
Post by: Stickjockey on May 08, 2007, 04:38:26 AM
Post by: TMM on May 08, 2007, 10:45:03 AM
About the peachy-salmon and trying to match it:
... Go with silver, instead. ...
... Go with silver, instead. ...
Silver? sounds kinda cheesey to me... i don't quite think it "goes with everything", either.
i'd like some sort of color, be it in a tie or pocket-square...
~tmm
Post by: Strings on May 08, 2007, 02:15:21 PM
Post by: Perd Hapley on May 08, 2007, 02:39:50 PM
Post by: RevDisk on May 08, 2007, 03:06:13 PM
About the peachy-salmon and trying to match it:
... Go with silver, instead. ...
... Go with silver, instead. ...
Silver? sounds kinda cheesey to me... i don't quite think it "goes with everything", either.
i'd like some sort of color, be it in a tie or pocket-square...
~tmm
Go with the pocket square. Trust me. Would I give bad advice for personal entertainment?
Serious, tho. They run no more than $3-5 unless you want some kind of odd silk variety. Worse case scenerio, you're out $5.
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 08, 2007, 05:08:49 PM
2) Buy the latest issue of "Classic Style" magazine. This issue is all about suits. Suits the right way, not the boring, poorly fitting, monochromatic tripe we deal with today.
Post by: Bogie on May 09, 2007, 07:35:09 AM
Post by: TMM on May 09, 2007, 04:52:38 PM
bogie, i'll let you know about how the tux works out. it's from a pretty big seller with excellent feedback, so i should have good luck.
~tmm
Post by: TMM on May 10, 2007, 02:24:59 PM
http://cgi.ebay.com/Black-Perry-Ellis-Tuxedo-Tailcoat-Prom-Wedding-39L_W0QQitemZ8251407864QQihZ020QQcategoryZ105515QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem
i love the tailcoat. only thing is, the vest pockets aren't real, and i want to put a watch and chain in the vest. so, we'll probably tailor it a bit to put in a pocket.
i just hope it's a cool night...
Last things i need are a pocket square and a corsage.
~tmm
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 10, 2007, 07:20:20 PM
Excellent win.
Post by: RevDisk on May 11, 2007, 01:19:20 AM
Got the tux today! it's fantastic, and it fits great. here's the auction for it:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Black-Perry-Ellis-Tuxedo-Tailcoat-Prom-Wedding-39L_W0QQitemZ8251407864QQihZ020QQcategoryZ105515QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem
i love the tailcoat. only thing is, the vest pockets aren't real, and i want to put a watch and chain in the vest. so, we'll probably tailor it a bit to put in a pocket.
i just hope it's a cool night...
Last things i need are a pocket square and a corsage.
http://cgi.ebay.com/Black-Perry-Ellis-Tuxedo-Tailcoat-Prom-Wedding-39L_W0QQitemZ8251407864QQihZ020QQcategoryZ105515QQtcZphotoQQcmdZViewItem
i love the tailcoat. only thing is, the vest pockets aren't real, and i want to put a watch and chain in the vest. so, we'll probably tailor it a bit to put in a pocket.
i just hope it's a cool night...
Last things i need are a pocket square and a corsage.
Very nice. A royal blue shirt would really go with that if you ever have another formal event in the future. Crimson if you don't care about the event and just want to meet women.
Good choice going with the tie over the bow tie. I think it looks more respectable.
With my suits, I always re-do the pockets. Go to a fabric store, pick up two squares the same kind of whatever material you want. Lay the squares on top of each other, sew a U shape on it, cut it out, flip it inside out. Snip out the suit pocket a bit below the visible part, attach the new pocket. Simple, easy and with proper tailoring, you can easy conceal carry any reasonably compact weapon or just have more room for random stuff.
Post by: TMM on May 11, 2007, 05:07:25 PM
Good choice going with the tie over the bow tie. I think it looks more respectable.
With my suits, I always re-do the pockets. Go to a fabric store, pick up two squares the same kind of whatever material you want. Lay the squares on top of each other, sew a U shape on it, cut it out, flip it inside out. Snip out the suit pocket a bit below the visible part, attach the new pocket. Simple, easy and with proper tailoring, you can easy conceal carry any reasonably compact weapon or just have more room for random stuff.
oh, uh, i was actually going to use the bow tie it came with. it's in the same pattern as the vest.
thanks for the pocket tip. my mom knows her way around sewing so she can help me as well. i can sew myself, but not very well.
now a question for everyone: you think a fedora would look good with that tux? it's a grey, teardrop crowned, silk-lined, 2" brimmed, 2" grosgrain ribboned, Knox fur felt fedora. i personally think that The Hat goes everywhere, but what do you think?
~TMM
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 11, 2007, 05:25:57 PM
Although technically you'll want a topper for a tux.
But proms not really being Black Tie you'd probably look a little contrived.
Wear the lid and check it at the door. You won't want to dance in it anyway.
Post by: TMM on May 12, 2007, 04:37:47 PM
~tmm
Post by: Moondoggie on May 12, 2007, 05:06:31 PM
A bowler or tophat just doesn't carry the same level of cool. To me, the bowler or tophat seem "overdone".
You're looking for an accessory, not a prop.
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 13, 2007, 01:00:21 AM
Just because idiot people today don't know what proper accoutrements are, doesn't make them "costumes".
The problem is people being ignorant of proper dressing standards.
Once again I blame the damn dirty hippies.
Post by: TMM on May 14, 2007, 02:37:14 PM
Oh, and for shoes. i have, as i mentioned before, black wingtips and oxblood not-so-wingtips. the black ones are more appropriate i'm guessing, but they're stiff, squeaky and creaky as hell, and heavy as my 12" boots[i'd like to wear my 12" engineer boots but i don't think that would look right...hah] . the oxblood ones are light, flexible, and comfy. think the oxblood would go alright with the black tux? i'm thinking [hoping...] it'd be a nice subtle contrast.
~tmm
Post by: Vodka7 on May 16, 2007, 06:50:48 AM
Post by: charby on May 16, 2007, 06:59:46 AM
A proper hat for a tux is a top hat, you can wear a bowler with a morning suit. You are wearing a after six tux so ditch the fedora, wear it to the post prom party.
A bunch of us wore cowboy hats to prom, I dug the picture out the other day, we all looked pretty stupid.
Post by: PPGMD on May 17, 2007, 05:56:03 AM
All it "takes" to "pull off wearing a kilt" is confidence. No real big trick to it...
You do need an answer for the ever present question, "What's under the kilt?"
Post by: Strings on May 17, 2007, 10:01:42 AM
I have several. Usually, I just smile though. There ARE rules about that little issue though...
See, a LOT of women think it's funny to try and look up a man's kilt, but that's really not proper: the only person who's supposed to see what's under there is the spouse. Anyone else, if they're that curious, is supposed to check by feel...
Some of the good answers I've heard:
Shoes
your wife's lipstick
the ground
"nothing... it all works fine!" (in answer to "what's worn under there?")
Post by: roo_ster on May 17, 2007, 12:11:28 PM
If you don't know how to apply a proper spit shine, I can help, but a local fellow with military experience can do the trick.
Suit vs Tux
For a prom, either will do. Formal != black tie. Wear the one that fits you best & is most flattering. Good on you for buying a tux. Rented tuxes are usually a POS.
Post by: TMM on May 18, 2007, 02:37:19 AM
~tmm
Post by: Strings on May 18, 2007, 07:33:56 AM
Post by: Laurent du Var on May 18, 2007, 10:25:50 PM
Or is TMM getting lucky right now ?
Did he bust his tux pants, did he slip and fell on his behind
or sneeze in her face ?
God, the suspense....
Post by: The Viking on May 19, 2007, 01:45:42 AM
It is sunday 0920 am here in Europe, could be that it is over already ?
Or is TMM getting lucky right now ?
Did he bust his tux pants, did he slip and fell on his behind
or sneeze in her face ?
God, the suspense....
Sunday? Saturday here...
Or is TMM getting lucky right now ?
Did he bust his tux pants, did he slip and fell on his behind
or sneeze in her face ?
God, the suspense....
Post by: Laurent du Var on May 19, 2007, 09:20:04 AM
I should stop the bloody Marys in the morning
Post by: Matthew Carberry on May 19, 2007, 11:46:29 AM
Saturday it is of course.
I should stop the bloody Marys in the morning
I should stop the bloody Marys in the morning
It was a minor mistake, that's no reason to go off the sauce. In fact, a little vodka helps assuage whatever embarassment such a mistake might cause.
Post by: .Cheese. on May 19, 2007, 12:38:34 PM
Post by: armchair warrior on May 19, 2007, 01:30:34 PM
I never did well in English class.