For at least one night at uni, you’ll have to venture away from your usual haunts and go to a ball. Whether it’s through a club or society or arranged by your course, it will probably be black-tie and boozy.

When you’ve spent the entire year making every pound stretch, having to look your best can feel like an extra step too far. That’s where hiring comes in. You can get a sharp tux for a fraction of the price, and as they’re designed to suit everyone, you’ll definitely be the one who got it right.

Here’s our take on three great options.

Black tie doesn’t have to mean black suit, so feel free to wear something with a bit of colour (especially if you opted for black at your school prom). We’re not suggesting turning up in a canary yellow three-piece, but something like this claret one instead. Ryan Gosling, John Boyega and Chris Hemsworth have all worn deep red suits on the red carpet, so you’ll be following in very worthy footsteps.

Keep it pared back with a white shirt and a black tie. If you want to mix things up a bit, add in some loafers rather than the standard Oxfords.

NB: if you’re taking a date, do check what they’re wearing before you go for this one. It has a tendency to clash with bright pink, red and green, and you won’t want to avoid each other all evening.

Midnight blue suits came to into their own in the 1920s because they actually looked darker than black suits under artificial lighting. This one‘s deep hue nods to vintage style but, as it’s cut in Moss London’s slim fit, it’ll give you a pin-sharp profile too. That means it’s got the best of both worlds – vintage look, modern cut.

When it comes to classic black tie, the holy grail is to keep things simple. Style it with a white dress shirt and black bow-tie. Sorted.

A black dinner suit always looks the part for a ball. Hire a well-loved brand like Ted Baker or French Connection to show you’ve moved away from what you wore to prom.

Choose this one by French Connection for a narrow fit through your shoulders, chest and waist for a really defined look. Or choose this suit by Ted Baker for a contemporary but tailored fit.

You’ve got loads of styling options with a simple black tux. Wear a waistcoat to smarten up your look even more or try bringing in some colour with your accessories. Add in a bright cummerbund or go for a bow-tie in a colour other than black.

If you’ve got a particularly strict dress code, you can still have a mini rebellion with your socks (as long as you’ll still be allowed into the party).

BROWSE BLACK TIE SUITS