Fashion
The Ultimate Guide on What to Wear to a Graduation Ceremony: Perfect Outfit Ideas for Grads, Guests & Family
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Graduation day isn’t just an important event; it’s also a real-life photo shoot. What you wear is so important, whether you’re crossing the stage or cheering on your best friend.
Especially with all the photos being taken and all the fun memories being made, you want to be comfortable, look good, and fit the mood.
In this article, I’ll show you how to dress for graduation easily.
Regardless of whether you are a graduate, a guest, or a family member, I will share with you what to wear to a graduation ceremony depending on the environment and season.
Since graduation season, I have been to many ceremonies to understand the importance of a balanced outfit, one that offers comfort and style.
Understanding the Dress Code for Graduation Ceremonies
We’ve all stood in front of our closet before a huge event, tried on three outfits, and hated them all.
Am I right? The anxiety is even worse when graduation rolls around. The event is a big deal, whether you’re walking the stage or sitting in the stands, and your outfit should show that.
The goal? Find the perfect compromise between feeling comfortable, looking great, and respecting the importance of the day.
Not all graduations are the same. A high school graduation ceremony on the football field, or your little cousin’s kindergarten graduation, filled with cold pizza and juice boxes galore, will be a very different affair from a college commencement ceremony in a full auditorium.
Since college graduations are more formal, wear fitting attire like suits, dresses, or formal outfits. You can be elegant but less formal for high school.
It’s also okay to wear something light and playful for younger kids’ graduations; try a loose-fitting top and pants or a playful jumpsuit.
Let’s discuss logistics. Is the ceremony outside in the insanely hot sun or indoors with air
conditioning? Believe me, this makes all the difference. I can speak from experience as I went to an outdoor graduation in June without the sun.
Guests who were wearing dark and heavy fabric were sweating through their blazers and regretting it 10 minutes in.
Breathable fabrics like linen, cotton, and chiffon will work well if you’re going to an outdoor graduation.
You’ll look so good with sunglasses and maybe even a nice hat.
But, because indoor grads tend to have fancier climate control, you can dress up. Wear heels, blazers, or dressier fabrics like satin.
There may be traditions or dress codes that are worth remembering, as decided by the school, culture, or even the graduate’s family. Some schools are casual and some are formal.
Religious or cultural norms around wearing specific colors or properly covering may also come into play.
It is nice to look over the invitation again, or just ask the graduate whether there is something specific you should (or shouldn’t) wear.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
In This Post:
• What to Wear as a Graduate
• What to Wear as a Guest at a Graduation Ceremony
• What Parents and Family Members Should Wear
• Seasonal Graduation Outfit Ideas
• Graduation Footwear Guide: Comfort Meets Style
• Accessories and Final Touches for a Graduation Look
What to Wear as a Graduate
Outfits for Female Graduates
As a graduate, you want an outfit that is professional but also complements the traditional cap and gown.
A plain yet fashionable dress is for sure a fan favorite, and an A-line or classic midi dress is never out of style.
These styles are flattering and are comfortable enough to be worn all day. If you wish for something more sophisticated, a fitted jumpsuit is the perfect choice.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
Personally, I love dresses because they are so comfortable while still allowing you to be elegant as you walk across the stage.
A statement dress from Anthropologie, the Maeve Wrap Shirt Dress, will have you dressed to impress, and the wrap detail adds just the right amount of flair without doing the most.
I wore a dress similar to my graduation dress. Not only was it flattering, but it was so breathable and made me feel confident when it came to walking across the stage.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
If dresses do not suit your style, opt for a pantsuit. A well-fitted pantsuit provides the best balance between professionalism and comfort.
Another one of my favorites is the Reformation Taryn Two Piece, which is so comfortable yet still elegant.
With shoes, you need comfort, but for those who will be on their feet all day, like the graduates, this should not come at the expense of your gorgeous outfit.
Wedges and block heels are the best. My recommendation would be the Sam Edelman Kia Block Heel Sandal because they are more supportive than stilettos without being less attractive. This is the perfect blend of function and form.
Outfits for Male Graduates
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
For male graduates, what you wear depends on how formal the ceremony is, but either way, you’ll want to find the right balance of stylishness and comfort.
A classic suit is a must for any formal event. Express Men’s Slim Fit Suit is a sleek, modern take that looks good under a graduation gown and can be a great investment to get dressed up years after the big day: weddings, job interviews, and even dinner dates.
But not all ceremonies require a suit and tie. In the case that the graduation ceremony is outside, you can perhaps get by in something a little less formal.
Go with work casual: a sharp button-down with clean trousers or Banana Republic’s Slim Traveler Pants is the ideal “put-together but kinda undone” outfit. You want to be cool but confident while giving each speech.
Of course, choosing a tie is going to be what pulls the entire look together. When choosing the perfect tie, it should be proportionate to your body.
Try to go for a solid color tie that matches the main color of the shirt.
And don’t forget the shoes, it truly does complete the whole outfit. The Cole Haan Original Grand Wingtip Oxfords are a nice and all-day-wearable option.
They’re dressy enough for special occasions such as a graduation ceremony, but light and cushioned enough to save you from blisters at the end of the day.
If you prefer something a little more laid-back, a nice clean pair of Alexander McQueen White Oversized Sneakers is a modern and stylish option that still manages to feel intentional.
Just make sure whatever shoes you do choose are broken in; no one wants to limp across the stage.
Related: How to Be a Classy Woman – 50 Traits of an Elegant and Sophisticated Woman
What to Wear as a Guest at a Graduation Ceremony
Outfit Ideas for Women
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
Being a guest at a graduation ceremony is such a fun experience to celebrate a special moment of someone close to you, and although it is necessary to dress up, all the attention needs to be on the graduate.
In picking your outfit, attempt to achieve a balance between celebratory sophistication and respect for the occasion. You want to achieve a balance of comfort and elegance.
When deciding what to wear to a graduation ceremony, consider a dress.
The light Abercrombie Mila Midi Dress is perfect for outdoor photos. The Hill House Ellie Nap Dress is a more classic option that is effortlessly stylish, and yes, it has pockets.
Don’t like dresses? Try the Banana Republic Cowl-Neck Jumpsuit or the J. Crew Linen High Rise Pants paired with a sleek top; both are chic, comfy, and ultimately let you get away with tricking people into thinking you did more than you actually did.
There is plenty of walking on graduation day. The Sam Edelman Michaela Sandals dress up any outfit.
They are also extremely comfortable. To top it off, add a thin gold chain.
Outfit Ideas for Men
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
For guys, slacks and a fresh, crisp button-down are always your best bet.
The Banana Republic Slim Traveler Pant pairs well with the J. Crew Broken-in Oxford Shirt. To complete the look, you can even add a blazer on top.
I would recommend a classic shoe like the Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II Sneakers. These shoes add a fashionably comfortable touch to the look.
Considering layering up for this event? I would recommend the Express Slim Chino Blazer.
They are so stylish but wearable. If it’s freezing, opt for the Coach Mac Coat, which is warm without being too thick.
Related: 10 Stylish Winter Clubbing Outfits to Keep You Warm and Chic
What Parents and Family Members Should Wear
Outfit Ideas for Moms & Female Family Members
If you’re a proud mom, aunt, older sister, or grandma (or even a cool older cousin), you want to look fabulous without upstaging your graduate.
It’s not easy to get that delicate balance right between being “chic and celebratory” and “accidentally upstaging the main event,” but it can be done.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
A midi dress is always one of my go-tos. It’s classic, complementing, and warm enough to make it through a 2-hour name-calling event.
My aunt wore this really cute Devin Knit Dress from Reformation to my cousin’s college graduation and looked effortlessly cool, like she needed to be on a Pinterest board for “graduation guest inspo.”
She even wore it to a summer wedding and a baby shower; it’s one of those go-with-everything outfits that you’ll be glad you bought.
For me, at least, midi dresses have been a lifesaver. I wore one to my sister’s graduation last year and gave myself credit for not messing with the straps. Pockets earn extra points.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
But if dresses aren’t your thing, don’t worry; dressy pieces work just as well. I’ve seen my mom wear a silky blouse with a French tuck into some high-waisted jeans.
If you want this look, give the Eileen Fisher Straight-Leg Pants a try (yes, it is pricey, but the comfort is honestly amazing). Pair it with a tucked-in blouse and a dainty necklace, and you’re good to go.
Just make sure to layer your looks, try a light sweater or blazer since indoor graduations love their air conditioning, and nothing is worse than being stuck in a cold arena for hours with goosebumps.
Outfit Ideas for Dads & Male Family Members
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
Okay, now let’s talk about the fathers, uncles, brothers, and boyfriends who are at the event.
Rule #1: Don’t bring your graphic T-shirt with you. Graduation is a special occasion, and if you’re not the graduate and getting to walk across the stage, dressing up a little shows respect, and you look nice in the mandatory family photos.
A tried-and-true business casual outfit is always a good and chic choice. Try a crisp button-down shirt, a quality pair of slacks or trousers, maybe a blazer if you feel like dressing up.
My dad wore the Tommy Hilfiger THFlex Dress Shirt to my cousin’s graduation and didn’t say a word about feeling uncomfortable, which is big considering that he usually considers formalwear to be a punishment.
The secret is to keep it breathable and not rigid, especially if it is an outdoor function. No one wants to be the man in the graduation picture who is clearly sweating down his shirt.
If it is less formal, you can actually roll your sleeves a little up; it still appears intentional and sophisticated.
Oh, and shoes! Depending on the occasion, a clean pair of loafers, oxfords, or even dressy sneakers will do. No gym shoes (unless they are very minimalist)
Related: 150 Ways Being a Well-Dressed Woman Will Change Your Life
Seasonal Graduation Outfit Ideas
Spring & Summer Graduation Outfits
The spring and summer graduation vibe is all sunshine and flowers and not sweating through your clothing before the first speech.
I actually have been to quite a few warm-weather graduations. Some are outdoors in the burning sun, and some in air-conditioned (ish) auditoriums.
The best thing that I’ve ever learned? Looser fabrics are your friend.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
Women should wear light dresses of cotton, linen, or chiffon. I love this option from Amazon, it’s the Square Neck Midi Dress with a Floral Print.
I wore a similar one to my cousin’s outdoor graduation in June, and not only was I cool, but I also received so many compliments.
The floral print gives it a picnic-in-the-park kind of vibe, and the midi length is ideal for dressing classy but still keeping it casual enough for post-grad pics.
You can even opt for wide-leg linen pants with a sleeveless top, and they’re comfortable as well. Pair with a block heel or even a nice sandal, and you’re done; your classy grad look is complete.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
For the guys, I always recommend something light and not so heavy.
Banana Republic’s Tailored-Fit Linen-Blend Twill Jacket is literally the cherry on top.
My boyfriend wore one to his sister’s graduation last summer, and not only did he make it through the heat, but he actually enjoyed wearing it. Wear a crisp button-down and fitted dress pants for a light yet crisp look.
Just don’t forget to pack sunscreen if you’ll be out for more than a few hours. I learned the hard way, and the graduation tan lines aren’t an exaggeration.
Fall & Winter Graduation Outfits
Cold weather shouldn’t make you sacrifice style. It just means you need to get a bit more creative with your layers.
I’ve been to a few freezing cold November and December graduations (Michigan weather is no joke), and believe me, you can be warm and still look good in the mandatory 500 family photos.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
For women, start with a solid base layer. Try a sweater dress or skirt and knit combo with tights. Then finish it off with a tailored jacket or coat that gives you that mature yet playful vibe.
If you’re in the mood to invest, the Burberry Kensington Trench Coat is actually iconic, it’s literally the red carpet of outerwear.
A more affordable option that I love is the Stone Double Breasted Wool Look Overcoat from PrettyLittleThing.
It is such a good dupe, I wore it to a December graduation and felt so clean and chic, even though I was freezing.
Boots (heeled or flat), chunky scarves, and gold jewelry are perfect finishing touches that will keep you warm and fashionable.
Thermal tights if the weather is absolutely horrible. They’re unseen to everyone else, but believe me, you’ll be thanking me later.
Photo by Shanelle Khalasawi
For guys, I recommend a nice wool blazer or fitted coat for winter events. Anything similar to the Michael Kors Wool Blend Peacoat is perfect; it’s warm but fashionable.
And if I were you, I would get it right now! It is actually on sale right now, too!
My brother wore an exact one to his college graduation in December, and it pulled the whole outfit together.
He wore black trousers, a turtleneck, and dress boots underneath, it kind of gave luxury fashion week but in a friendlier and nicer way.
Layering is important, but make sure everything is still comfortable enough to sit through the ceremony and applaud 100 times without freezing or overheating outside.
Related: 10 Best Color Combinations for Fall Family Photo Outfits
Graduation Footwear Guide: Comfort Meets Style
Seriously, shoes can either make or break your entire graduation day look. Okay, maybe that’s a bit too dramatic, but the right shoes really do matter.
Whether you’re walking across the stage or sitting in the audience, you’ll want shoes that are both stylish and practical. I always recommend shoes for grads that are classy and comfortable enough to wear all day long.
As I previously mentioned, I love a good block heel, and the Sam Edelman Kia Block Heel Sandals are ideal for adding height while remaining comfortable.
If you want something a little more supportive, the Naturalizer Vera Ankle Strap Heels at DSW are a favorite. I’ve worn them to events outdoors and they’ve never let me down.
For family and friends, there are many comfortable options. If you are looking for something that offers some flexibility and charm, these Old Navy Faux-Leather Loafer Mules are perfect; they look great with slacks or midi dresses.
If you need all-day support, the Dolce Vita Aileen Mary Jane Flat from DSW gives you orthopedic-level comfort but trust me in a very cute way.
Guests who still want a heel could go to DSW and try the White Mountain Boreal Loafer, a stylish block heel that won’t sink into grassy venues, which is a common issue during spring and summer graduations.
And let’s not forget about the guys. I would suggest the Cole Haan Grand Crosscourt II Shoe. These are a really good dupe to the Alexander McQueen oversized Shoe I mentioned earlier.
These are definitely a safe pick for the male guests, with a sleek leather design that feels like an everyday shoe.
For a more dressy look, go to Amazon to pick up the Clarks Tilden Cap Oxford, which gives a more classic design and cushioned insoles, whereas the Johnston & Murphy Upton Perf Venetian Loafer at Nordstrom is an effortless slip-on option.
Whatever you choose, remember that comfort is just as important as style, especially if you’re walking up stairs, standing in long lines, or walking across a grassy field in the heat.
Trust me, your feet will thank you later.
Accessories and Final Touches for a Graduation Look
Understated accessories will complement your graduation outfit without taking over it.
For this type of occasion, I prefer delicate jewelry. The J. Crew Factory Pearl and Gold Stud Earrings or Kendra Scott Elisa Gold Beaded Necklace are perfect for a classic, minimalist look.
Go for bags that are small and practical. I loved bringing my Saint Laurent Cassandre Phone Holder Bag to my graduation.
It was just big enough for my phone, ID, and a tiny lip gloss, yet still cute enough to complete my look.
Hair and makeup should enhance your natural features. Go natural and fresh with dewy foundation, mascara, and a tinted lip balm like Glossier Balm Dotcom.
If you’re going to be outdoors, be sure to pack a pair of cute sunglasses, like the Revolve Le Specs Air Heart Sunglasses, and a sun hat to keep you under some shade and feeling cool.
These small touches can make you look polished without overdoing it, so you can focus on the celebration rather than frequent touch-ups
Final Thoughts
Whether you are a graduate, a proud relative, or a best friend, it is exciting to decide what to wear to a graduation ceremony.
No one wants to look back at photos and think, “Why did I wear that?” So you’ll want to look great and feel comfortable. Your outfit should be a celebration of the fact that you get to spend this day with the ones you love.
It is so important to balance style and comfort. Most likely, you will be standing or walking for hours at a time, so dress in practical but stylish clothing.
Start with where and what the weather will be like: wear light, loose materials outside for outdoor ceremonies. Consider layers for events indoors in case the air conditioning is over the top.
Guest clothing should not take away from the graduate. Women should wear floral dresses or a blouse and fitted slacks.
For men, a button-down collar shirt, with dress pants and maybe a light jacket, is always a very clean look.
Comfortable shoes are very appreciated. To be comfortable without giving up style, wear fashionable flats or a block heel since you will likely be standing for pictures and socializing.
Graduation day is about celebrating huge achievements. Choose something suitable for the event, fashionable, and comfortable for you.
You’ll love the day so much more with confidence and style when you love what you’re wearing.
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