These Graduation Outfits Will Look So Pretty With Your Cap and Gown (2024)

FAQs

What looks best with a graduation gown? ›

That means you can wear anything from floral dresses and little black dresses to sleek blazers, pantsuits, jumpsuits, and rompers. We've included all of that and more—plus inspiration from Alex's graduation and Paige's graduation.

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? Stairs to climb or descend?

For example, if you have a neutral white or black gown, go for a green, pink, or purple look. If your school has chosen a colorful graduation gown, try wearing a different hue of the same color to create a dynamic, bold monochromatic look, or choose a contrasting color to really stand out.

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.

Wear White or Light colored outfits for a classic look

For a timeless and classic look, outfits with light colors and tones tend to work well, as they will never go out of fashion. Graduation is a joyous and celebratory occasion, so I'd aim for bright and uplifting colors to match!

Men generally wear dark trousers and a dress shirt and tie under their gowns. Women usually wear a lightweight dress or a blouse and a skirt that is shorter than the gown so it does not hang below the robe.

Most graduation outfits favour neutral, darker colours to avoid overshadowing the gown – which, of course, is the focus of the look – but if you prefer to have a pop of colour for contrast, look for colours that complement your institution's colours.

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!

Wearing black to a graduation ceremony is generally acceptable and considered a classic choice. It's a versatile color that exudes elegance and sophistication. However, it's important to consider the dress code or guidelines provided by your educational institution for graduation ceremonies.

Choose the right shirt:

For graduation photos, the gown does not cover casual clothes like t-shirts. Guys traditionally wear a shirt & tie, and ladies usually bring a tank top or other low-collar shirt that won't show. If you are non-binary or want to try your own look that's no problem - what you wear is up to you!

What do girls wear for cap and gown pictures? ›

As a girl you might want to wear something fun under your cap and gown. A cute pair of shorts, a fun top, and some sandals or sneakers are always cute. You will look like you are ready for the best summer before going to college. Carefree and ready to leave high school behind.

There are a few different colors that are typically used for graduation robes, but the most common ones are black and white. Sometimes, other colors like blue or green are used as well, but it really depends on the school and their traditions.

Research doctorates wear crimson doctoral gowns, while professional doctorates and terminal master's degrees wear black doctoral gowns. Bachelor's gowns are maroon and master's gowns are black. Both are made in the standard shapes for those degrees and include white university logos on the sleeves.

White graduation dresses can be traced back to an educational milestone in the 19th century. They were adopted as a symbol of purity and new beginnings for young women completing their studies. Today, they continue to convey a sense of youthful innocence and commencement into adulthood.

Traditionally most graduands wear dark clothes with light or white shirts or blouses. Jackets are a great idea as they give the gown a better shape and mean your photographs will look even better.

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.