What to Wear on Graduation Day 

Since graduation is a formal ceremony, it is typically stated that you should be dressed appropriately. You will probably have to rent a graduation gown and cap from your institution, which usually features its official colours and insignia. Underneath that, modest attire is typically recommended, along with heeled shoes. While dress codes may vary across institutions, it usually falls somewhere between smart-casual and semi-formal. Smart-casual combines casual wear with more professional-looking attire, while semi-formal is a relaxed take on traditional formal wear. As a rule of thumb, it is better to show up overdressed than underdressed.

When it comes to picking the outfit to wear under your graduation gown, there are some considerations to bear in mind before making your final choice.

Outfit Silhouettes

Since the graduation gown is typically a full-length layer that sits above your actual outfit, it is best to avoid adding any additional bulk to the overall silhouette. Instead of bulky sleeves, thick materials or voluminous silhouettes, go for fitted pieces made with breathable materials instead. They will not only introduce balance to the look, but also look neat and streamlined as you move around. Since the graduation gown is typically a full-length layer that sits above your actual outfit, it is best to avoid adding any additional bulk to the overall silhouette. Instead of bulky sleeves, thick materials or voluminous silhouettes, go for fitted pieces made with breathable materials instead. They will not only introduce balance to the look, but also look neat and streamlined as you move around.

Neckline

Since most graduation gowns are designed with a V-neckline, it is likely that your top will peek through. Collared shirts will complement this perfectly and look smart — soft collars are recommended over stiff collars, as they will sit better against the gown. Some graduation hoods are designed to be held in place by a collared shirt, but you can also opt to pin your hood to your shirt collar for a secure fit.

Beyond collared shirts, crew neck, scoop neck and V-neck tops are also acceptable options. If you prefer to keep your top hidden, a square neck or strapless top will sit neatly under the gown’s neckline without bunching or competing for attention. In general, avoid ruffled or large collars, halter necks and off-the-shoulder or asymmetric tops, as they might look uneven and peek out awkwardly. Overall, it is important to pay attention to your neckline to ensure you look neat and presentable at all times.

Hemline Length

The hemline of your outfit matters too. Generally, it should not peek out awkwardly from underneath your graduation gown. For skirts and dresses, the recommended length would be above the knees or mid-calf — the hemline should end where your graduation gown does. Longer skirts might add visual bulk to your look, while shorter hemlines might create an imbalance. The material of your dress or skirt is another important factor. It should not cause snags or rub abrasively against the gown, as this might disrupt the overall silhouette.

The same rules apply to your choice of pants, where there should not be too much volume or excess fabric. It will not only look unflattering, but also potentially cause you to trip. Depending on the exact fit of your graduation gown, it is best to try it on with your intended outfit to ensure everything complements one another.

When it comes to hairstyles, the most important consideration is how your hair will look with the graduation cap over it. To ensure that your mortarboard fits, avoid hairstyles that sit too high on the head, like ponytails and high buns.

Elaborate hairstyles should also be avoided, as your cap might get caught in it. Instead, keep the hair on the top of your head flat, and aim to frame the face for a flattering look. Simple, classic hairstyles will work best — whether that’s straightened hair, loose curls or a slicked-back low bun.

You can also consider how your hairstyle will look with the neckline of your gown. For example, if the neckline already features both the graduation hood and the collar of your shirt, then an updo would be a suitable way to complete the look. Before the ceremony, you should test out your hairstyle with your cap to decide if it looks flattering. Use bobby pins to secure the cap to your hair, and keep a few extra ones in your bag for adjustments on the go.

Since there are already so many other details going on in your look, the jewellery you wear can be minimal. Consider the neckline of your gown and outfit to pick out your necklace for the day. The necklace should either sit above the neckline or under it, so it does not interfere with your gown or hood. As a rule of thumb, understated designs will look polished and neat.

You can also match the metals of your accessories to your outfit. For instance: if your outfit features silver accents, pair it with silver jewellery. For a cohesive look, you can also stick to just one type of metal.

Here are a few more tips and recommendations to help make sure your graduation look is just as you envisioned.

Break in your shoes ahead of time. Try walking around in your shoes of choice, so you can stretch them out and identify any possible pain points. This also ensures that you’ll be confident walking in them on the day of your ceremony.

Ensure the soles of your shoes aren’t slippery. Check your shoes to make sure that all the sole stickers have been removed, and that there is sufficient grip. Otherwise, if there isn’t, you can stick on grip pads to enhance the traction of the soles.

Check the length of your gown with your shoes on. This will give you a clearer idea of how everything looks together, and whether they are truly complementary.

Check the weather forecast for the day. Since you’ll most likely be taking photos outdoors, it is best to plan your outfit around the predicted weather conditions. If it is going to be a rainy day, pick water-resistant materials; on a sunny day, breathable fabrics will help keep you cool.

Keep a stain remover pen by your side. You can quickly address any accidental stains, which will help you maintain a pristine appearance all day long.

Most importantly, make sure you feel good in your look. This is still your special day, so you should still feel like yourself. You can wear your favourite colour or add sentimental touches like a cherished necklace or hand-me-down bag — no matter how you choose to do it, find ways to make your look personal.