35 Best Graduation Outfits & Styling Tips for Your Day (2024)

Congratulations! You are finally graduating after all those years of hard work, and I can bet you’re over the moon.

Such a special occasion deserves an amazing outfit, but you should not stress over what you’ll wear. You just need to enjoy these happy days and let me guide you through the most stylish graduation outfits you’ll find.

Relax, take a cup of tea and read through the following ideas and tips. You’ve already had enough stress during your college years.

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What to wear to graduation

The best thing about graduation outfits is that there is no specific dress code or rules you have to follow. It all depends on what you like and your personal style.

You can perfectly adapt a formal look into your style, so pulling out the perfect outfit is definitely not a difficult task. Graduating is one of the best feelings you’ll ever have, and choosing your clothes should be as fun and exciting as receiving a diploma.

I’ve compiled 35 graduation outfit ideas and styling tips that will help you look absolutely gorgeous on your special day. Take notes and remember to enjoy the process!

35 Graduation Outfit Ideas to Your Day

1. Graduation dress ideas

If you’re looking forward to wearing a beautiful and stylish dress for your graduation, let me share with you my top dress styles for such an occasion.

Red and sexy

What’s a better way of making a statement than wearing red? I can’t think of anything that can be as flattering as a red dress.

Try a burgundy lipstick to pull out a super chic look:

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This is also a great color for a winter graduation dress, just wear a pair of nude stockings to keep yourself warm.

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As for the shoes, I suggest wearing a pair of nude or gold pumps or high heel sandals.

nude heels:

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gold heel sandals:

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Burgundy is an alternative you can opt for instead of a hot red dress as the ones above. I love how sexy this color is, and suggest you pair this dress with burgundy heels as well, like the model below.

Also, an A-line dress is a super flattering option if you’re wondering what to wear to graduation. It gives you a sweet and elegant look perfect for your celebration.

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You can wear silver accessories such as a cute pair of earrings or a chic bracelet:

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burgundy heels:

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White and sweet

White is a great option you can choose to wear as a statement color. If you’re tan or have dark skin, white is what you should opt for. It’ll make you glow without even trying while giving you a sweet and chic look.

A white dress, no matter the silhouette or the style, is the definition of a cute graduation outfit.

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You can get really creative with the accessories. If you’re a color lover, make your shoes pop up with a chic pair of heels.

A dark green, for example, is a cool color you can opt for:

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For a classic and elegant look, a pair of beige or nude heels will fit perfectly:

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A cute pair of pink earrings will complement your classic and elegant graduation outfit:

You can also wear a colorful accessory such as a necklace, if you want to add a pop of color to your white graduation dress:

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Just any color…

You can wear absolutely any color you like because, as I’ve mentioned, there’s almost no dress code for a graduation ceremony. If you’re more into dusty colors, for example, go for it! You know better than anyone which color suits you the most.

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Winter graduation dresses

If your ceremony is set for winter, these are cute graduation dresses you can opt for and still look gorgeous.

Velvet is a perfect option for cold weather graduations. It’s warm, chic and elegant:

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For a bolder graduation outfit, why not a midi knit dress? Imagine how cool you’ll look in something similar to this:

You can also opt for any kind of long sleeve dress. A straight shaped dress is a cool option you can wear to rock a super stylish graduation look:

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Regarding winter graduation shoes, I’d suggest to go with similar styles as these ones:

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Why not knee length boots? I love how bold they make you look:

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Another cool option for a winter graduation dress is tights such as these to show-off your legs:35 Best Graduation Outfits & Styling Tips for Your Day (23)

2. Skirts

Skirts are absolutely feminine and comfortable, which makes them a great item to wear to graduation.

You can never go wrong with a floral printed skirt:

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High and low skirts with a chic top is also another great graduation outfit idea:

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similar top:

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An A-line skirt with cut-outs such as this one is a cute and classy option that will add texture to your graduation outfit:

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You can get really creative when thinking about what to wear under a graduation gown. If you’re a fashionista, a chic skirt like this one will make heads turn:

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similar skirts:

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A mix of trousers and skirt is the coolest option that will definitely take your graduation outfit to the next level.

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3. Pants or trousers:

A cute graduation outfit idea is a palazzo pant, no doubt about it:

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Wide leg high waist pants are also a great option. Pair them with a chic button down for a sophisticated look:

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Finish your graduation outfit with a cute pair of pearl earrings:

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I absolutely love how cute a pair of pleated trousers look. You can wear any high waist trouser with a crop top like this model:

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Animal prints will make your graduation outfit look absolutely trendy:

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4. Two-piece sets

Two-piece sets are super cute and can make you look absolutely gorgeous:

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Regardless of the style or color, two-piece sets are probably the best option for a head-turner and cute graduation outfit. You can choose the one you feel most comfortable with, and still look gorgeous.

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5. Jumpsuits

Jumpsuits are a cool option to wear to a graduation. They’re super comfortable and if they’re long-sleeved, absolutely perfect for a winter graduation outfit.

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To accessorize your jumpsuit, you can opt for a statement necklace such as these:

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6. Prints

Opting for prints can pump up your graduation outfit with no effort at all. Whether you choose a striped blouse or a polka dot dress, prints add texture and are visually appealing to the eye.

These are cute ideas you can get inspired with:

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Wrap up:

A graduation ceremony is a major event that you’ll never forget. Now that you’re getting your diploma, a successful career is just at the tip of your fingers!

And what’s a better way of enjoying such a precious moment than choosing a super chic outfit? I remember going shopping a few weeks before I graduated from my master’s, and every time I tried something on I would picture myself holding the diploma, which made my heart automatically race from excitement.

I hope these top 35 graduation outfits help you decide or at least have a clearer idea on what to wear for your special day.

Cheers! And remember, the best is yet to come…

35 Best Graduation Outfits & Styling Tips for Your Day (2024)

FAQs

What is best to wear on graduation day? ›

Some of the most popular colors to wear on graduation day are white and black, but you can go for whatever hue you want (unless your school requires a certain color). Whatever you choose will meet the dress code and align with your personal style (we've got some cute purses to match the outfits, too).

What to wear to graduation as a female? ›

Winning options for women are a dress, jumpsuit, skirt and blouse, or a nice top over dress slacks. High hemlines and plunging necklines can be saved for a less serious occasion.

What color dress is best for graduation? ›

A white dress is a popular pick for graduations.

How do I choose a graduation outfit? ›

Since graduation isn't an entirely formal event, it's best to stick with hues that are not too bright and not too dull. Some of the best color choices include black, white, peach, blue, silver, and grey. Regardless of the color you choose, remember to align it with the latest trends and your personal style.

How can I look good on my graduation day? ›

Remember to dress smartly

It's not one of the most important things to look nice on graduation day, but it's an added bonus. The University advises you to dress in formal attire such as a suit or dress but this also includes any formal attire relating to your cultural tradition or national costume.

What shoes should I wear to graduation? ›

When it comes to graduation ceremonies, dress shoes are definitely an easy go-to choice. They show off the sophistication your presence gives off after receiving your new degree. They also add a touch of formality to your outfit - perfect for a prestigious and formal occasion like a graduation ceremony.

What do mothers wear to graduation? ›

Black and white are always safe choices, but feel free to experiment with other colors as well. If you're feeling bold, try a patterned dress or even something in in a bright color. Our best tip for graduation attire for guests: just make sure that it's not too flashy and that you feel comfortable in it.

Can I wear jeans to a graduation ceremony as a guest? ›

If the invitation doesn't specifically state the dress code, go with a nice dress or skirt/slacks with a blouse combination. It's a safe bet and you'll always feel more comfortable dressed up than dressed down. Don't wear jeans!

What not to wear under graduation gown? ›

Women are best wearing either dress pants or a shorter skirt underneath the gown, while men should choose khakis or dark-colored dress pants. Avoid brightly coloured bottoms if you choose to wear dress pants or a longer skirt, as they can be seen below the hem of the gown and stick to darker colours.

Can I wear black to graduation? ›

Ladies, if you're stumped on what to wear to graduation as a guest, look no further than your favorite LBD. The little black dress is a wardrobe wonder that will never leave you looking overdressed or underdressed. We call that a win-win.

What is the most common graduation color? ›

Gold. Gold, the most common accent color in graduation regalia, is used broadly to represent academic excellence and achievement, particularly in the fields of science and mathematics. It's also used to represent honor societies and high grade point averages.

What color combinations are best for graduation? ›

With white robes, look for softer colors, or opt for a dress that matches your school's other color. I suggest baby blue, lavender, burgundy, pastel green, or yellow, or even floral looks to give a little more dimension to your outfit.

What do most girls wear for graduation? ›

The dress code for a college graduation ceremony is typically formal. For men, this means wearing a suit or dress pants with a button-down shirt and a tie. For women, a dress or a skirt and blouse combination are both acceptable choices. Some institutions may have rules about dress length or colour restrictions.

What do family members wear to a graduation? ›

A good rule-of-thumb when deciding what to wear to a child's graduation is to aim for what will look nice while also satisfying comfort and not overshadowing the graduate. A nice dress, slacks, or a suit will meet any unofficial dress codes.

Should I wear a dress or pants to graduation? ›

Tailored, well-fitting tops and dresses are ideal. Dresses and skirts both look great, but length should be considered as you'll be up on the stage. Dressy or work-wear style pants are also a good option.

What should parents wear to a graduation? ›

Wear Business to Semi-Formal Attire

College graduation calls for an outfit more formal than jeans but not as dressy as a co*cktail dress you might wear to a wedding. Think business to semi-formal. Wear something similar to what you would wear to a respected workplace, special church service, or an important meeting.

Does it matter what you wear to graduation? ›

Graduates should wear smart, neat and professional attire (formal evening wear is typically too dressy). Footwear should be smart but comfortable, as you will need to be able to walk across the stage and stand for short periods.

Can I wear jeans for my graduation? ›

CAN I WEAR JEANS TO GRADUATION? In short, no. It's a ceremonial event and formal dress is normally customary. Jeans, T-shirts, trainers and other casual clothes are not considered appropriate and some universities might not let you into your graduation ceremony wearing them.

What should I wear under my graduation? ›

What do you wear under your cap and gown? What you wear under your cap and gown is about comfort and style! Think business-casual dress, and remember: your shirt collar or dress top will show. Wear comfortable shoes suited for the surface — a football field?

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