First and foremost—congratulations! It takes real dedication to juggle school, work, and home life, and you made it through. That’s something to be proud of!
Now that you're approaching the big day, you’re probably starting to think about all the little details—including what to wear under your graduation gown. Here are some tips from your friendly neighborhood photographer to help you look and feel your best:
1. Check the Weather
Graduations usually happen outdoors, so check the forecast in advance.
Hot weather? Choose breathable fabrics and avoid heavy layers under your gown.
Cold or rainy weather? Layer up with a thin sweater or long sleeves under your gown. Consider waterproof shoes or boots that still look presentable.
Windy? Be sure everything—from your cap to your skirt—is secure!
2. Choose Sensible Shoes
Ladies: Be so for real—do you know how to walk in high heels? If not, graduation day isn’t the time to find out. Ceremonies, especially in larger cities, can last for hours and often involve walking up stairs, across stages, or down long aisles. Prioritize comfort over fashion. Stylish flats, sandals, boots, or short heels are great alternatives to high heels and can look just as nice! Still, if you’re dead set on wearing them high, make sure they’re broken in and comfortable enough—practice walking in them ahead of time. Maybe even bring an extra pair of flats or sandals.
Ladies: Be so for real—do you know how to walk in high heels? If not, graduation day isn’t the time to find out. Ceremonies, especially in larger cities, can last for hours and often involve walking up stairs, across stages, or down long aisles. Prioritize comfort over fashion. Stylish flats, sandals, boots, or short heels are great alternatives to high heels and can look just as nice! Still, if you’re dead set on wearing them high, make sure they’re broken in and comfortable enough—practice walking in them ahead of time. Maybe even bring an extra pair of flats or sandals.
Guys: This goes for you too—don’t wear brand-new dress shoes for the first time on graduation day. Break them in beforehand to avoid blisters.
3. Coordinate With Your Gown
Think about how formal you want to dress—some people go all out, while others keep it simple. Just make sure you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you choose. Next, think about the color of your graduation gown and whether your outfit will match. While the gown covers most of your outfit, parts of it may peek through, especially around the collar and hem. Choose neutral tones like brown, white, or black—or similar colors that complement your gown—to make sure your outfit photographs well. Neutral or solid colors work best, and avoid overly bulky or layered clothing that can bunch up under the robe.
Think about how formal you want to dress—some people go all out, while others keep it simple. Just make sure you feel comfortable and confident in whatever you choose. Next, think about the color of your graduation gown and whether your outfit will match. While the gown covers most of your outfit, parts of it may peek through, especially around the collar and hem. Choose neutral tones like brown, white, or black—or similar colors that complement your gown—to make sure your outfit photographs well. Neutral or solid colors work best, and avoid overly bulky or layered clothing that can bunch up under the robe.
4. Plan Your Hair Around the Cap
Your graduation cap (mortarboard) sits flat on your head, so NO big buns, high ponytails, or fancy hairdos. Styles that are flat at the crown—like straightened hair, low buns, or loose curls—will work best. If you’re decorating your cap, make sure the style doesn’t interfere with how it sits on your head.
Tip: Bring a few bobby pins or clips to secure your cap in place—especially if it's a windy day.
The cool tone pink still works with the navy blue gown here. I think it's due to the satin material all across her outfit.
5. Keep Accessories Simple
Less is more when it comes to accessories. Avoid chunky necklaces or large earrings that might get caught in your gown or tassel. Small, tasteful jewelry adds a nice touch. If your school allows graduation cords, stoles, pins, or other customization be sure to wear them neatly and securely.