1Make it your own. Use your tuxedo rental as a base and build from there, adding your own shoes and accessories.
2Add special touches. Lapel pins, pocket squares and watches elevate a dressed-down look and perfect a formal look.
3 Tie your own tie. Forgo the rental's clip-on and use your own. The result is more polished and refined.
4 Don't clash colors. Coordinate with your date's dress by bringing the dress or a fabric sample to the store to color-match your vest and tie. Otherwise, play it safe and choose a neutral color like silver.
5 Step outside the box. Stray from the rental company's catalog and choose things that don't necessarily go together, but appeal to you.
6 Wear it with confidence. Sure, you'll probably be the only one wearing your letter jacket to prom, but it'll ensure you look like a total class act -- and not like anyone else. Besides, you'll have something to offer your date to keep warm during the evening.
7 Try it on. What looks stylish in the rental catalog might not fit your body type, so try on as many tuxedos as possible before making a decision.
8 Deconstruct the tux. While unconventional, you can still make a style statement at prom with a pair of nice jeans and a formal jacket or sweater and tie. This look might not win you "best dressed" of the night, but you'll be comfortable and stylish. Check first with your school, though, to see if there are any rules on attire.
9 Shop early. If you're renting a tuxedo or suit, you'll want to start the process as soon as possible for the biggest selection of styles.
10 Get a haircut. Don't go overboard with a new style, but a fresh cut the week before prom will pull together your look from head to toe.
Sources: Amy Kaplan, senior store manager at Savvi Formalwear, Rosedale Center; stylist Erick DeLeon
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