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25 Stylish Graduation-Day Outfits, From Dresses to Jumpsuits

May 20 2023 - 7:14am

Can't quite decide on the proper dress code when considering what to wear for a graduation? While you can always ask your peers or fellow invitees to settle upon a final answer, there's still a certain degree of pressure to look sophisticated for the big moment — while also conveying your personal style. The good news? Come spring and summer [1], there are plenty of lightweight maxi dresses [2], tailored jumpsuits [3], and cute co-ord sets that can pass for any number of attire requirements.

Whether you're invited to someone else's graduation ceremony or you're the one crossing the stage to smile with your diploma proudly in hand, these outfits team flawlessly with a robe and look incredibly polished on their own. After all, just being in the presence of people being honored for their hard work calls for a serious dress-up moment, so don't shy away from opulence. These days, there's less concern about following obligatory rules when it comes to your wardrobe. The best advice is to stick to specific proportions if you're a graduate, so your look isn't distracting or bunching up underneath your cap and gown.

The 25 unique designs ahead run the gamut when it comes to cut, color, and overall aesthetic. If your taste is rather refined, try the LBD from Henning or slip midi from Aritzia, and add an extra layer on top in the form of a cardigan or blazer. If you're an androgynous dresser [4], a suit from Indochino, Anthropologie, or The Frankie Shop may be just the ticket. And don't knock the scholarly appeal of a crisp white button-down or shirt dress as your foundation, which will help you tap into the light-academia trend [5].

Ahead, choose from several solid options that definitely pass the test when it comes to what to wear to a graduation ceremony.

A Classic Strapless Midi Dress

ba&sh Ben Long Dress [7] ($333, originally $475)

When they say keep it simple, they were likely referring to ba&sh's strapless midi dress. With a sweetheart neckline and lace-up back, it has all the subtle details that make it minimalist chic — and it's exactly what you might picture when you start looking for a graduation dress. Finish the look with a strappy heel to complement the gorgeous lacing everyone will see when you turn around.

A Floral Corset Dress

Reformation Marguerite Silk Dress [8] ($298)

With a fitted bodice, smocking in the back, and a thigh slit, this look could go straight from a graduation ceremony to a dinner celebration. Plus, the vibrant color scheme confirms that there's something to be happy about.

A Long-Sleeved Minidress

Rhode Ella Dress [9] ($435)

If you're worried about a wind chill on graduation day, a minidress with sleeves is a safe bet, and the flirty hem on this universally flattering design adds an undeniable touch of personality.

A Next-Level Shirt Dress

Atu Body Couture Marble White Shirt Dress [10] ($418)

Who says a shirt dress has to be simple? You'll barely need any over-the-top accessories or statement jewelry with this look that features waist-accentuating ribbons, side openings, and even pockets for your tissues, phone, or AirPods (depending on how you plan on spending the ceremony).

A Silk Tee and Matching Miniskirt

RōARI Brooke Tank [11] ($200) and RōARI Stella Skirt [12] ($200)

Aside from the fact that you can mix and match these separates later, they come in three unique colors — cinnamon, sky, and black — that feel perfectly festive and also look luxurious. Whether you style them with sandals, pumps, or even a Western boot, the compliments will roll in because you thought outside the box.

An Open-Back Eyelet Dress

Garage Clothing Kaia Cage Back Eyelet Dress [13] ($50)

If you're looking for an affordable piece that can be repurposed all summer long, this minidress is right up your alley. With delicate eyelet florals and a front-tie bustier, it's lightweight and feminine. The details at the back also speak volumes, so you don't have to overthink your accessory game.

A Puff-Sleeved Printed Maxi Dress

Caroline Constas Hart Dress [14] ($495)

The Caroline Constas Hart maxi is a bestseller, and it's easy to see why. The uplifting print feels extremely special, especially if you're the one being celebrated, and the ruffle hem flows majestically as you walk. Another subtle detail? You can wear the sleeves on or off the shoulders, so feel free to repurpose this dress later and achieve a slightly different aesthetic.

A Sleeveless Prairie Dress

Thrills Division Mid Length Dress [15] ($140)

This free-flowing ankle-length dress is a casual option for a graduation day guest — especially if the temperature's warm. It's airy and effortlessly stylish, and you can accessorize it however you choose. We recommend playing up the bohemian details with Western boots or a wide-brim hat.

A Cropped Jacket and Skirt

Sau Lee Audene Cropped Blazer [16] ($110, originally $275), Sau Lee Audene Bralette [17] ($54, originally $135), and Sau Lee Audene Pencil Skirt [18] ($100, originally $250)

Make a bold statement in a three-piece set that you can layer to your comfort level, depending upon what the day holds. The pink shade is right on trend for the season, and the center-front slit on the pencil skirt allows for a shoe moment — so make the most of it.

A Lightweight Casual Tank Dress

Samii Ryan Ferris Tank Dress [19] ($90)

If you'd prefer something lightweight and trendy, but your style is usually more casual, consider a tank dress that can easily be layered under your gown. You can add on the mesh gloves — which are included with the dress — later on, for celebration purposes. What's more, there's a subtle "grateful, always" message embroidered at the back, which feels appropriate on graduation day.

An Embroidered Minidress

Fanm Mon Soma Light Pink Linen Collar Neck White Embroidered Minidress [20] ($322)

Made in Turkey, this custom minidress can be made in eight different color combos and also reflects the Haitian brand's extraordinary craftsmanship that's described as "a potpourri of delightful colors." In other words, it's the perfect answer for what to wear to a graduation.

A Multicolor-Printed Silk Dress

Kerri Rosenthal Penelope Dress in Printed Blush [21] ($328)

Look forward to the season ahead in a colorful midi dress that you can team with minimalist sandals all summer long. The three-quarter length sleeve is the perfect crop for wearing under a robe, and the look is just as nice for a graduation day guest.

A Tailored Shorts Set

Sabina Musayev Marcello Blazer [22] ($335), Sabina Musayev Maggie Tailored Vest Top [23] ($230), and Sabina Musayev Maggie Admon Pleated Shorts [24] ($195)

This spring- and summer-friendly three-piece set comes in the loveliest shade of peach, and of course, all the suit separates can be mixed and matched with the rest of your wardrobe. For a graduation, we suggest styling as a full look with a simple, low-heeled sandal for utmost sophistication.

A Blush Blazer Dress

Miss Circle Rafa Blush Off Shoulder Crepe Blazer Dress [25] ($69, originally $159)

The double-layer effect of this pastel-toned blazer dress adds an element of intrigue, along with some extra coverage for a graduation-day look. Think of it as a regal update to an otherwise chic going-out look.

A Black A-Line Dress

Henning Chloe Combo Dress [26] ($248)

You simply can't go wrong with an A-line LBD that pairs well with a strappy shoe and clutch, or fits seamlessly under a graduation robe.

A Navy Shorts Suit

The Frankie Shop Avalon Blazer [27] ($299) and The Frankie Shop Avalon Belted Shorts [28] ($159)

If you prefer a shorts suit, the relaxed fit and high-rise of these swingy bottoms will keep you comfortable throughout the whole graduation ceremony. Make it a leggy moment with a heel, or go for an academia moment in loafers. The coordinating blazer can be removed later on for celebrations.

A Textured Sweater and Wide-Leg Pants

Zara Textured Knit Sweater [29] ($50) and Zara Wide-Leg Pareo Pants [30] ($50)

As a graduation guest, teaming up a pair of elegant ivory slacks and a short-sleeved rib knit makes for a clean look that doesn't steal the spotlight away from those being honored.

A Sleeveless Waistcoat and Trousers

Manière De Voir Open-Back Waistcoat With Vegan Leather [31] ($110) and Manière De Voir Trousers With Vegan Leather [32] ($110)

Though the trousers are simple, this sleeveless halter-neck waistcoat makes the combination more visually sleek and modern. Coordinate it with wedges, mules, or a colored sandal on graduation day.

A Pink Satin Minidress

Kate Spade New York Open Back Lucille Minidress [33] ($398)

This fuchsia shade is the color of the season and makes a bold impact on an important day like a graduation. Find a lip color to match and add accessories that also speak to your personality, such as sunglasses or statement jewelry.

A Bustier and Trousers

Par Bronté Laurent Her Song Set [34] ($268)

This textural set is actually a light shade of gray that applies a slightly casual tone. You can dress it up with strappy stilettos and a well-considered hairstyle that spotlights your jewelry on graduation day.

A Puff-Sleeve Jumpsuit

& Other Stories Puff-Sleeve V-Neck Jumpsuit [35] ($149)

The short puff sleeves with a frilled trim on this design make it a feminine option for graduation day, meanwhile, the legs are relaxed, and the belt cinch at the waist is functional. It is perhaps easiest of all the options — the ultimate one-and-done look.

A Floral Wrap Dress

H&M Tie Detail Wrap Dress [36] ($35)

This calf-length floral dress has a concealed hook-and-eye fastener that will keep your graduation-day look secured into place. Play up the subtle leg slit with lace-up heels.

A White Tuxedo

Indochino Hampton Ivory Tuxedo [37] ($589)

For a personally tailored and majorly elevated graduation ensemble, consider a dapper tuxedo in a lighter-toned shade. To keep things scholarly, style it over a pressed white button-down and complete with pumps.

A Satin Three-Quarter Sleeve Midi Dress

MOTF Satin Puff Sleeve Midi Dress [38] ($35)

The satin sheen of this midi dress complements any jewelry or ornamental belt you may want to wear for a special moment like graduation day. Accent it with darker accessories for sophistication.

A Silk Slip Dress

Aritzia Wilfred Only Slip Midi Dress [39] ($118)

This versatile satin slip dress can be the foundation of many different graduation-day looks, whether it's styled under a cardigan or double-breasted blazer. It's also available in 16 different shades.


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