21 Graduation Outfit Ideas For Grads + Guests Alike
You don’t have to be stepping on stage to look camera ready on Graduation Day.
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Whether you’re a high school graduate, or you’re stepping on stage to accept your bachelor’s or graduate degree, this is your special time to celebrate your achievements. You’ve spent years of your life working towards this moment, likely sacrificing nights out, a good night’s sleep, and let’s be honest, your sanity at times. There’s also many of us that would guiltily admit to spending countless hours in the same oversized sweatshirt and leggings simply to avoid adding the task of laundry to our infinite to-do list.
Don’t worry, though, because you are not alone. All the stress that comes with the school year is soon to be behind you now. For many, Graduation Day is just weeks away, and you deserve to celebrate in style. We know planning graduation looks can be beyond stressful, so we are here to help you get started.
What Style Graduation Dress Should I Wear?
Graduation might be the only event harder to plan an outfit for than a wedding. Graduates (and attendees) are typically required to adhere to a strict, specific dress code that varies for each school. Common requirements for graduates include: no jeans, no dresses longer than the length of the gown, minimal jewelry, and closed-toe shoes. But, there are just as many schools that are starting to stray away from this tradition, by instead allowing students the freedom to express themselves through their clothing. It’s easy to see why it’s so confusing (not to mention daunting)!
With all of these rules in mind, most graduating students find it easier to dress in an office-ready, business casual style. But as easy as that may sound, you might also be hearing the groans of thousands of students dreading the idea of wearing workwear instead of being true to their own style—even if it’s only for one day.
However, it is understandable—school graduation can be a momentous time in your life. It’s important to feel confident, and of course, be ready for all of the photos that will be taken. We promise there are ways to incorporate your individuality while staying within the relative bounds of your school’s graduation dress code.
So, what to wear for graduation? It is possible to maintain elegance, professionalism, and poise, without forsaking your fashion sense. Even if you are not the one graduating and you’re only in attendance, these looks are just as comfortable, stylish, and appropriate to celebrate the graduates in your life.
If You Love…A Suit & Tie
Okay, before the groans begin, we don’t mean the full suit and tie. There’s a way to utilize the best parts while still making it your own with a modern twist. We suggest a simple, yet chic looking by combining a blazer with a matching pair of trousers. Complete the suit with a solid-colored button-up shirt and loafers–they’re a trendy style that also provides extra support while standing and walking across the stage. Or, if you’re a fan of heels, put the look together with a comfortable pair that has a modest height. Remember, you’ll be standing…a lot.
Don’t be afraid to show off your style with the shoes that you choose, too. While a suit might feel “boring” or “stuffy,” a pop of color or hint of pattern can peek out beneath your gown to show off your unique style.
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There’s nothing more classic than a black suit—a staple in any business casual wardrobe.
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The chic look of houndstooth makes this feel like an expensive suit.
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Another classic combination, a gray suit is chic and understated.
If You Love…Simple & Elegant Style
Graduation day is a perfect occasion to dress to the nines! If you want to wear a gown, go right ahead (but, of course, remember the dress code if it has length requirements). Dresses in solid colors give you the ideal canvas to hint to your personality, whether this is through your choice of color or by adding a special accessory. Keep your jewelry minimal so as to keep the focus on the outfit beneath the gown. However, by choosing a dress with a shorter length, it gives you a chance to show off your shoes—and can go right to a celebration party when the ceremony is over.
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The minimalist accessories make the dress the focal point.
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The bright pop of color is fun, and there is just the right amount of sparkle without being too much.
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This sheath dress is something you will pull out of your closet for every special occasion.
If You Love…Being Comfortable
There is something about a one-piece suit or jumpsuit that makes dressing up easier and more comfortable. (Besides, it’s a worry-free outfit that looks great on almost anyone.) For added detail, accessorize the jumpsuit with a statement necklace or earrings to liven up the outfit. Adding a narrow belt can also help to define your waist, as well as providing a separation in the solid color of the jumpsuit. This is also a great time to wear a pair of flat mules or a shoe with a chunky, low heel to ensure comfort during the entire ceremony.
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The chunky heeled loafer is one of our favorite parts of this look.
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If your graduation ceremony is more of a casual affair, this jumpsuit is light, bright, and airy.
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Here’s to the lovers of a deep blue hue! The tip of the heel can sneak out from beneath your pant leg, and a matching belt will be ready to complete your outfit as soon as you step off stage. It could even be a nod to your school’s colors.
If You Love…Floral Prints
Since the majority of graduation ceremonies take place in the late spring or early summer months, florals are the perfect choice for a classic, timeless print. If you have a floral dress that you’ve been waiting to style, this is your sign to wear it to your ceremony. Depending on your personal aesthetic, you can wear pumps or flats to complete the look along with your favorite accessories.
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With its quintessential summer vibes, this is a dress that you could wear all season long.
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Who knew that you were hiding a bold pattern beneath your gown? This blouse embodies floral in the most unique and interesting way.
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This dress might feel more casual than many on the list, but it feels just like a summer picnic to us.
If You Love…Your School Colors
Graduation day closes out a significant period of your life, containing memories from some of your most cherished years at school. While this may not have been everyone’s experience, if you loved your school, now is the time to show a little school pride (albeit in a highly fashionable way). Whether you went to a small high school or a large university, most school colors are bright and bold. For that reason, let your school spirit shine through by keeping the accessories simple. Bonus points if you decorate your cap to match your outfit.
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This red dress is the burst of color that we need on stage (or in the audience).
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The lighter hues of some school colors offer a chance to create an outfit that feels effortlessly elevated.
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Another chance to opt for a flattering dress, this color perfectly represents your school.
If You Love…An All-White Look
Just like your favorite little black dress, a solid white dress is a sophisticated choice in your wardrobe. Personally, I choose to see an all-white outfit as a fresh start–exactly what you’ll want to appreciate after years of studying, writing, presenting, and all of the hard work that you had to do to get to this day. If you don’t want to wear a dress, consider a formal white top and matching trousers or an all-white jumpsuit instead. Style either ensemble with kitten heels and a gold watch before completing the outfit with a natural makeup look (or red lip). These outfits are not only flattering, but they will also be a picture-perfect standout against a black cap and gown.
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All nude accessories will pair beautifully with your graduation attire (and everything else in your closet).
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For an extra feminine feel, wear rose gold in lieu of traditional gold or silver accessories.
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Graduation doesn’t just mean dresses—a blouse with a white pair of pants creates a monochromatic look that’s an instant classic.
If You Love…To Repurpose Your Closet
Let’s face it — not everyone has the budget to buy something new for every event that is on their calendar. So, why not repurpose what you already have in your closet?
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The belt of this shirt dress accentuates your waist and flatters your curves.
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This sparkling dress make the perfect wedding guest dress pick, too!
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The dark hue of this denim skirt is a great contrast to the bright white of the blouse.
