A graduation outfit has a serious impact on how a person is judged. An interesting study suggests that female graduates dressed more professionally are perceived as better students and overall achievers than those opting for sexier attire.
When it comes to graduations, unwritten and official dress code rules exist. These vary slightly, depending on the academic level the graduate has achieved. People attending a graduation should also consider the selection of the right clothing to look respectful and celebrate someone’s academic accomplishments.
The Importance of Having the Right Graduation Outfit
A graduation is an academic event. Whether it’s a high school or an Ivy League university, academia is perceived as somewhat conservative. This fact plays a role in the selection of clothes appropriate for a celebratory academic event.
The graduation gown is an integral part of the ceremony and its history dates back to the 12th century. Its appearance became a bit more standardized in the 19th century and the American Council of Education came up with some guidelines pertaining to academic regalia. Individual universities also have their requirements about clothing items graduates can wear underneath the gown (shoe type and color, jewelry, accessory recommendations, etc.).
Recently, there has been some backlash when it comes to these rigid guidelines and requirements. More students have become interested in self-expression through attire selection. Some have even claimed that graduation dress codes clash with cultural representation and self-expression. While some academic institutions have decided to become a bit more lenient, others still have a solid set of rules in place for that special celebratory day.
Outfit Selection: Some Rules to Follow
The place where the graduation is taking place, the season, school traditions, and cultural norms all have to be taken into consideration when picking a graduation day outfit.
Graduation Outfit Tips for Ladies
When choosing the right clothes to have on underneath the gown and during a graduation party, you should first and foremost pay attention to the dress code guidelines your school has in place.
Here are a few simple additional rules that will help you make the best choice:
- To be on the safe side, opt for a formal dress or a skirt and blouse combo. You should choose clothes that are comfortable and breathable because you’re going to be putting the graduation gown on top.
- A classic outfit is always a safe choice. A beautiful black dress that ends slightly below the knees is an excellent pick. In fact, any knee-length midi dress in a neutral color will be wonderful. A suit can also work, whether you opt for trousers or a skirt.
- Anyone who wants to modernize things a bit should consider an alternative like a formal jumpsuit. Having some personality, it will still look polished enough and it will be very comfortable for a day-long event.
- Choose shoes that are comfortable and stylish. You’ll be walking and standing for long periods of time during the day. Stilettos will obviously be the most impractical choice. Low heels, ballerina flats, or any other comfortable closed-toe shoe will be a suitable choice.
- Accessorize to show your personality but don’t overdo it. A beautiful necklace or a pair of sparkly earrings will give you that feminine touch. Choose a hairstyle that will be compatible with the graduation cap. Loose curls or a low bun will both look classy and elegant.
Graduation Outfit Tips for Gentlemen
The same rules apply to men who are graduating. To make outfit selection easier, rely on the following guidelines:
- A neutral suit is a safe choice that will look good and will feel comfortable underneath the gown.
- Alternatively, you can opt for a fitted white shirt and trousers. This combination is a bit less formal but still respectful enough.
- Brown or black shoes will always be a safe bet. Light brown is a nice, warm color that’s a bit more distinctive than traditional blacks and navy tones.
- To tie the outfit together, choose a belt that matches the color of the shoes.
- A cool tie can add a slightly funky, distinctive touch to the outfit. Make sure you’ll feel comfortable in it all day long, however.
- While jeans may be the clothing item you practically live in, do leave them behind for the graduation. If a suit isn’t your thing, choose chinos or a tailored cotton trouser in a neutral color.
- As far as accessories go, a classy watch will be enough to give the outfit a bit of class.
High School to PhD Graduation Fashion: How They Differ
Graduation outfit differences by degree level do exist. You have probably noticed that the caps and gowns PhD professors wear look different from the academic regalia assigned to undergraduate students, for example.
Other than that, there aren’t significant differences in terms of dress code.
High school students can usually opt for less formal attire, choosing a splash of color or a fun accessory to have some sparkle. PhD graduates, on the other hand, are grown adults who will look best in formal attire. Frivolousness isn’t really a great choice for those who have managed to achieve the highest academic level.
This doesn’t mean that a graduation day outfit has to be boring. Well-tailored clothes and elegant accessories will work together, making the graduation attire noticeable. A bit of personality can always be thrown in, whether in the form of a colorful brooch, some makeup, or designer eyeglasses for an outdoor event.
Attending a Graduation Ceremony as a Guest
If you’re wondering what to wear when attending someone’s graduation, opt for polished and comfortable.
Most schools and universities don’t have a dress code for graduation ceremony attendees. Still, being smart about outfit selection shows respect. It’s also a good idea to keep things minimalist. You’re not the star of the show and an eccentric outfit isn’t going to be perceived well.
A nice dress or a skirt and blouse combo will be a safe bet. The same applies to a fitted shirt and trousers for the male attendees. Dressy jumpsuits and even a less formal suit will also make a great impression.
Remember that you’re accompanying someone on their special day. Let the graduate enjoy the moment without taking attention away from them. Also, take the venue and the time of the graduation into account. You’ll probably be running around and snapping lots of pictures. To do that, you should feel comfortable and you should be supported by the right pair of shoes.
