Cute-As-Hell Graduation Outfits That Will Level-Up Your Cap and Gown (2024)

FAQs

What to wear to graduation as a female? ›

Although graduates will be seen in robes, it still matters what they wear underneath. The key is to not overdress, because those robes tend to be notoriously warm. Winning options for women are a dress, jumpsuit, skirt and blouse, or a nice top over dress slacks.

Men – The best choice is a collared dress shirt and ties to showcase a professional and tidy appearance. Women – The best choice is a scoop-neck top with a modest cut or a collared blouse.

But what should men wear for a graduation? For graduation, men should opt for a formal or semi-formal outfit, such as a well-fitted suit or a dress shirt with trousers/dress pants, paired with dress shoes. It's also important to choose colours that complement the graduation gown.

Similarly, black or other dark color shirt would also work well if your graduation gown is a bright color, such as royal blue or red. Ties are generally not required. However, you will look extra sharp with one that compliments the outfit! We recommend a different color from the gown so it doesn't blend in on photos.

Even if a student doesn't associate with a certain gender, they should be able to wear the color they desire. If a guy wants to wear white at graduation he should be able to, and if a girl wants to wear red, then allow it.

Some of the most popular colors to wear on graduation day are white and black, but you can go for whatever hue you want (unless your school requires a certain color). Whatever you choose will meet the dress code and align with your personal style (we've got some cute purses to match the outfits, too).

Sneakers can be a great way to show off your personality. I wore a pair to last year's commencement ceremony, and they were a hit! Dress shoes are a classic, but not always the most comfortable. Opt for a dressier sneaker with a white sole.

If the invitation doesn't specifically state the dress code, go with a nice dress or skirt/slacks with a blouse combination. It's a safe bet and you'll always feel more comfortable dressed up than dressed down. Don't wear jeans!

Classic colours like black, navy and grey always work for graduation, but you can balance it out by going for some colour in your accessories or choosing suit shades like khaki, burgundy or brown for something more relaxed. Read our guide on what to wear for graduation.

Get top-of-the-class style a comfortable spin in tailored slacks or chinos, especially in neutral hues. Match khaki or grey pants with a collared dress shirt (feel free to skip the tie). Lightweight material—think cotton, poplin or linen—will help keep you cool under a heavy grad gown.

What not to wear under a graduation gown? ›

Do not wear a full suit and tie under your cap and gown. Unless you plan to graduate from a school in the Arctic, you might actually melt in a full suit and tie. This is especially true if it's your one black interview suit, which, let's face it, is probably wool or polyester (see No. 1).

A simple and elegant dress or skirt paired with a blouse can create a sophisticated look. Alternatively, tailored dress pants or a pantsuit can provide a modern and professional appearance. It's important to choose attire that is tasteful and respectful, avoiding overly revealing or casual clothing.

"Many wedding gowns can have built-in bras, which is a great option for women who need extra support in the bust area," Brickman says. If your cup size is small enough, you may be able to get away without a bra, while brides with larger busts might feel more comfortable wearing one.

Dress comfortably.

If you're wearing pants, consider a lighter color such as khaki. If you're planning to wear heels, consult the “don't wear new shoes” section, and consider a low heel. Keep in mind that if you wear a coat or jacket, it will have to go with you into the ceremony.

As such, you'll want to choose clothing that is comfortable and breathable. Moms of graduates should consider wearing a colorful dress or suit in a lightweight fabric. Bright hues will help you stand out in a sea of black gowns, and the lighter fabric will keep you cool in the warm weather.

The hem should fall below your knees and above your ankles, regardless of whether you're wearing heels. If the elastic is in the front, you're wearing your cap backwards. The cap should come down to about an inch above your eyebrows. The mortarboard should be level and parallel to the floor.

For the main Commencement service, I recommend wearing something you might wear to church. Depending on your area, the level of formality may vary a bit, but around here people are pretty casual.