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What does my boyfriend wear to a formal if he doesn’t look good in a suit or tux?

My boyfriend and I are going to a Military Winter Ball this month. He will not wear a uniform. His style is VERY casual (he only wears surfer clothing) and has never owned a suit. We have gone to Men’s Wearhouse and nothing looks right. He either looks like he’s going to a PTA meeting or to a mafia casting call. We are a young couple (I’m 21 and he’s 23), but we can’t find something formal/business casual to wear without him looking old. Zoot suits are out – they are ugly and tuxedos are hideous. HELP!!! pls add websites. THANK YOU!!!

I had the same problem a few years ago. My husband (we are now in our mid-20′s) is a plumber, and I am an accountant! We compromised and he wore a very nice cashmere blend sweater with dress slacks and dress shoes. The shoes are important. As long as the clothing is clean and pressed, it doesn’t need to be a tux. For a military ball, maybe pair a nice matching suit coat with the look to look dressed up without needing to have the tie.
If everyone is expected to be truly formal though, a suit may be your only way out. A well-fitted suit will make any man appear like he has confidence, but don’t just fall into the trap that any suit will do. Have him get fitted at a high-end store and THEN you can shop around for your budget. If he wants to appear more confident in suits, I have seen that a bright blue button up shirt with a gold tie really stand out for a dark grey or black suit, which makes it look more modern as well. Hope this helps – have fun at your ball!!!