Style Guide: Dressing for Graduation Day

Graduation is of course a wonderful celebration. Not only does it mark an entirely new chapter of life, it’s a ceremony that recognizes your hard work and achievements throughout four years of college. It’s a special occasion, so it’s a good idea to put a little extra effort into your look. Since I’ve been to many graduations, I’m pretty well versed on the topic of dressing for the occasion. And recently, I’ve been thinking about a few tips to help all of you upcoming graduates put your best foot forward in front of your professors, classmates, family and friends. Here are a few things to keep in mind on the day of the ceremony…

1. Choose a cute but conservative dress.
   You will of course want to look cute in photos with friends on the big day, but also keep in mind that graduation is a ceremony for people’s parents, grandparents, and professors. That said, don’t reach for the trendiest, tightest dress in your closet. Instead, opt for a cute and conservative style that will look appropriate in front of friends and family alike. Since graduation is in the spring, I would recommend choosing a sleeveless style—especially since those robes can get a little toasty. This little number is an adorable option:
   
   
2. Wear comfortable shoes.
   Being comfortable on graduation day is a must. You will be walking, standing, sitting, posing and more! If you don’t want to go the sandals route, I suggest finding a pair of wedges that is comfortable to walk in. They will give you support and make your look more dressed-up than flats. It’s also important to remember that when you’re wearing your cap and gown, the only thing people will see are your shoes, making them equally as important (if not more!) as your graduation dress. Find a pair that is classy, cute and comfortable, like this pair.
   
   
3. Sport your sunnies.
   If your graduation festivities are outdoors, you will want to bring along a pair of your favorite sunnies. Just like your shoes, your sunnies can be fun and stand out since you will be wearing a cap and gown to cover the rest of your outfit. These circle sunglasses from definitely do the job!
   
   
4. Stick to statement jewelry.
   I wouldn’t say that your jewelry has to be simple to the extreme, but you also don’t want to overdo it. Stick to one staple bauble—whether that means rocking a statement necklace or having an arm party. Then keep the rest of your jewelry simple—a ladylike ring, pearl earrings. Try to avoid anything that jingles around as you will probably be shaking hands, waving, and giving hugs all day. This lovely pink statement necklace would be perfect with a high-neckline dress.
   
   
5. Create a natural, fresh beauty look.
   You want your makeup give you a natural glow so that you will look radiant. If you pile it on and you’re spending the entire day outdoors, you will probably feel like you are melting. Keep it light, and choose a feminine lip color. Apply a few coats of mascara, and be sure to use a moisturizer that has SPF in it (no one wants a post-grad sunburn!). The photo below is perfect graduation makeup, in my opinion.

I hope these tips have helped to prepare you for graduation day! As long as you dress to flatter your figure and channel your true personal style, I’m sure you will look great :-)