What To Wear to Graduation

By Jess T.

It’s the merry month of May and that means the school year is coming to a close and many a student will be happily accepting their diplomas.  Ok, maybe not-so happily.

While you are probably busy drinking your face off and burning your books with your friends, there is a larger task that needs to be finished (and you are going to want to do this sober): figuring out what to wear to graduation!

You may be from the “I’m wearing a gown so who cares what happens under it” school of thought, but, trust me, it matters. Photos from your graduation day will be a part of your life forever, so dressing up (not throwing up) should be on the top of your graduation morning agenda.

The proper attire for graduations/convocations is basically what you’d wear to church/temple on a holiday.  You want to look dressed up, but without toeing the line to slutsville. So, leave the sex kitten at home – no short skirts, no low-cut tops and, for the love of god, no going naked. Those gowns don’t have a lining in them, and who knows what could happen if the wind blows….

Here are some ideas for cute ensembles. Just click on the item to get some more info!

Black and white is super popular this spring, so a colorblocked or printed B&W dress is a great way to go. And when graduation is over, you can take off that robe and head right to that delicious celebration dinner in style.

You can’t go wrong with a cute pair of black peep toes (classic), but oftentimes ceremonies take place on grass, meaning you will be digging holes with every step. Best alternative: the wedge. It is very in right now and totally comfortable. It’s also a great excuse to milk the parents for one more shoe purchase before you’re on your own in the real world.

If black and white isn’t really your style, celebrate this occasion with some bright florals. The brights in the dresses below will give you a much needed pop of color to balance out that tired little face of yours from a long night of graduation parties (or a long morning of weeping with your friends over the end of the best time of your life).

Going with a neutral skirt or pair of slacks and a bright blouse is also a good way to incorporate this trend. Bonus: these pieces are all essentials for any office job you may get post graduation, so these looks can work double duty.

For those evening ceremonies don’t forget a cardigan or wrap in case it gets chilly. Oh, and be sure whatever you wear has lots of pocketspace for those tissues. A girl’s gotta be prepared.

Now get out there and make your mama proud!