Graduation season is swiftly approaching, which means it’s time to start thinking about what to wear under a graduation gown.
If you’ll be graduating in the coming months, whether it’s with a high school diploma or a college degree, woohoo: You did that. There’s a lot of prep to do, including sending all the important details about the ceremony to any family members and other loved ones who plan to attend. (You know, so they can start planning their graduation guest outfit…) After that, there’s your own graduation look to consider. Of course you’ll be matching your whole class in a graduation gown and cap, which is why what you wear underneath the robe is so important—it’s your way to stand out and mark this special milestone in your life.
Guidelines for What to Wear Under a Graduation Gown
Not sure what to wear? You’re not the only one. Graduations can be one of the most difficult occasions to dress for, as you have to account for a variety of factors; from weather, location, to the color of your robes and what fits best underneath them. Luckily, we’ve got some foolproof tips for a grad to follow that will make them look good in all those graduation photos your loved ones will want to take. As you’ll see below, dresses tend to rule the day, though there are a few options for those who prefer pants, regardless of the occasion.
While there are certainly graduation dress code violations that are pretty universal—leave your jeans, T-shirts, and sneakers at home—you’ll also want to double-check if your school has any specific dress code violations to avoid. When in doubt, avoid anything super short, low-cut, totally see-through, or otherwise provocative.
Now, let’s talk silhouette. Even though a graduation gown is typically oversized, wearing anything too voluminous might impact the drape of the robe. Therefore, maybe it’s best to save that billowy puff-sleeve dress for another occasion. A slimmer silhouette is a safer bet, though the robe is a great excuse to avoid anything too restricting. Remember, you’ll be sitting through hours of speeches before walking on stage to well-deserved diploma on stage, so comfort is key when it comes to your look and your shoes. Another tip, re: undergarments: A pair of spandex or shapewear can help prevent uncomfortable chaffing if the event is taking place outside on a warm spring or summer day.
Graduation Outfit Ideas
Ahead, you’ll find several looks that work for a college or high school graduation. Use the one you’d feel the most confident and comfortable in as inspo. Here’s what to wear under a graduation gown to toast your next chapter in life in style. Cheers!
A floral dress
Jeremy Moeller/Getty Images
