Now that graduation season is here, let’s talk about outfit ideas. One of my favorite things about this job is hearing from you via DM or email. Lately, I’ve been getting a lot of requests for event-specific looks, especially what to wear to graduation ceremonies. With these celebrations just around the corner, I wanted to address this topic today. Many of the spring favorites I’ve shared would be great choices. But as a girl who loves watching, all We’ve put together even more options. Today we’re going to talk about some outfit tips, tricks, and outfit ideas. So, if you’re wondering what to wear to graduation as a guest, keep reading.
Graduation attire tips and tricks
Before I get into my favorite outfit ideas, I want to share some tips and tricks that I use when dressing for graduation. I previously shared my thoughts on the do’s and don’ts of wedding guest attire. As I mentioned in this post, contrary to my typical motto of “there are no rules when it comes to dress,” I find it a little different depending on the event. Graduation ceremonies and weddings are exceptions. Here are some things to keep in mind when deciding what to wear to your graduation ceremony.
1. Stay comfortable
Graduation can take a very long time, so you need to take this into consideration. Trust me, now is not the time to throw on a pair of new platform heels you haven’t broken in yet and hope they work. Depending on your location, you may be required to walk a significant amount, stand for long periods of time, and may be outdoors in the sun. The goal is to look chic and put together, yet feel comfortable all day long.
2. Aim for a sophisticated look
There is usually no dress code to follow when deciding what to wear as a guest to a graduation ceremony. However, I always make sure to wear something sophisticated to show respect to my graduates. Also, make sure it’s not too tight, too revealing, or too short. I usually choose a dress, but a chic summer suit is also a great option. Personally, I think it’s better to be a little overdressed than to look too casual for the ceremony.
3. Consider the venue
It is very important to plan according to the weather. This is especially true if part (or all) of the ceremony takes place outdoors. If celebrating outdoors, be sure to apply sunscreen, bring sunglasses, and sometimes a hat. In these situations, choose a more breathable fabric.
Also, for indoor ceremonies, I always bring a light sweater or spring blazer. Even in a crowded room, the air conditioner can make you feel chilly. You should also be aware of whether the venue has any baggage size restrictions. Be sure to check it out in advance!
What should I wear to the graduation ceremony this spring?
Now comes the fun part! These are some of my favorite ideas for what to wear to graduation this spring. Although the exact item may not be available to her in a year, I believe the costume formula still makes sense. Regardless of the date, the aim is to look sophisticated while keeping you comfortable for long periods of time.
1. Chic sundress and sandals
Let’s start with the most obvious outfit combination: a chic sundress and simple sandals. This is always a great option and for good reason: it’s classic, appropriate and comfortable. When choosing dresses for these celebrations, I usually choose ones with a slightly longer hemline and avoid cut-outs. I’m also looking for materials that don’t overheat.
We can’t talk about what to wear to graduation without mentioning Hill House Home dresses. These are always winning options.this rainbow poplin dress Would be another great choice!Would be great in combination with these rainbow strap sandals and these pleasures silk stud earrings. Of course, don’t forget to bring your cute sunnies!these shades under $15 Perfectly complete the look.
For indoor weddings, tuckernuck chloe dress A beautiful option. This timeless dress was originally launched in collaboration with the brand last year. You can now choose from 8 color variations!Chloe’s dress looks great on this floral sandals. Add just the right amount of detail to complete the look.
2. What to Wear to Graduation – Alternatives to Sundresses
Wondering what to wear other than a sundress to your graduation ceremony? A chic suit or pants set is also a great option.
Veronica Beard is a longtime favorite of mine. I don’t think you can go wrong with any of their works.I recently bought this classic jacket and coordinate jacquard mini dress. This will be the perfect outfit to attend your graduation ceremony. If you like pants or skirts, this jacket can be easily combined with other bottoms. It’s the perfect piece to keep warm in a cold auditorium, and I love that you can take off the jacket afterwards for a refreshing look. This dress is a little shorter than other options, so it’s best to pair it with flat shoes. This pair for less than $20.
If you like prints, this is it hydrangea print tops and Pants for this coordination is a must-see! This set looks great with raffia and straw accessories.Personally, I would like to style it with this knitted sandals this bamboo clutch.
Another alumni guest that I love looks so gorgeous linen blend vest And that Coordinating the skirt. These pieces are from a collection that MG Style recently launched with Dillard’s, which I shared in detail in this post. Lightweight linen is the perfect summer fabric, especially for events that may be held outdoors.
3. What to wear to graduation: Formal options
Most graduation ceremonies are fairly lenient when it comes to clothing restrictions. However, some rituals are formal during the day, while others are performed in the evening. When deciding what to wear to graduation as a guest in this situation, I would forgo a sundress or linen suit. Instead, I opt for something a little more dressy and evening-appropriate.
this organza midi dress This is one of my favorite LBDs I’ve seen in a long time. It would be perfect for an evening celebration.Complete the look with low mules like these Pairs Under $75, elegant yet comfortable.If you are looking for clothes that are a little more interesting, please check them out. This beautifully detailed dress. This dress is not recommended for daytime events as it is too hot, but is perfect for indoor evening celebrations.
4. How to attach accessories
Overall, I try not to overdo it when planning what to wear to graduation. After all, the focus should be on alumni, not guests. This rule applies not only to the outfits I choose, but also to the accessories.
For these events, I tend to keep my jewelry clean, like a simple necklace or stud earrings. Similarly, I usually choose shoes that are timeless and not too outlandish. However, you can combine beautiful outfits by following these guidelines. Don’t be afraid to play with colors and mix and match patterns. And, as I mentioned before, I always bring classic sunglasses (like these under $50) and his SPF for daytime outdoor ceremonies.
graduation outfit ideas
If you’re planning on attending a graduation ceremony in the future, we hope these ideas will help you get creative and put together the perfect outfit. What other types of looks can I help you plan? Feel free to DM me with any requests! For more spring style inspiration, check out our current favorites from Tuckernuck, Hill House Home, and Sézane.