Here's What to Wear for a Graduation Ceremony Under Your Gown
Stressed about what to wear for a graduation ceremony under your gown? Looking for graduation outfit ideas to no avail? Then you've come to the right place. There’s much to look forward to on graduation day, so there's no room for added anxiety (plus, you might feel spent from just planning your prom look). Not only are you celebrating the end of a multi-year chapter, but it's also a great opportunity to get dressed up in more formal outfits that you wouldn't otherwise get to wear on a daily basis.
Graduation is a momentous occasion, so it's normal to feel the pressure about what to wear for the big day under the long-anticipated gown. And, to help take some of that pressure off your plate, we've curated a list of stylish graduation outfit ideas; after all, it’s the one time you can’t dodge the cameras, so you’ll need an outfit to match the vibes for the unforgettable day!
From gorgeous dresses to pleated jumpsuits, suits, and more, there are plenty of stylish outfits you can wear under a cap and gown. Think sequined minis, floral-print midis, and formal maxi dresses, whether brand-new or second-hand.
Some of the most popular colors to wear on graduation day are white and black, but you can go for whatever hue you want (unless your school requires a certain color). Whatever you choose will meet the dress code and align with your personal style.
We've rounded up 23 looks to give you an idea of what to wear for a graduation ceremony under your gown. Throw your caps in the air, High School Musical style, and shop our top graduation-day picks below. And while you’re at it, check out some of our favorite graduation gifts, too; we’ve got great options for treating all your best friends and siblings on their big day!
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Betsey Johnson is one of the most sought-after brands among celebrities at the moment, and you can also tap into the movement without fully breaking the bank with vintage options. This black chiffon dress with adjustable spaghetti straps and an asymmetric handkerchief skirt taps into the classic elements of a graduation gown with an edge. (And it's made of 100% silk!)
- Size: 4
If you want to go the color route, red is always a good idea. The silhouette is sleeveless and features a bateau neck, making it more modern, while the midi skirt is flowy for a whimsical touch. Bonus points since it's made from 100% cotton and has a breathable lining.
- Sizes: M–XL
If red is too much but you want to still go for a colorful graduation dress, this secondhand tie-dye option from Busayo, made from a blend of cotton and linen, is a perfect option for the warmer months. It will be a like a peekaboo under your gown and you can still use it as a go-to summer dress after.
- Size: L
Also fresh and fun for summer is this 100% linen mini shirtdress from Madewell. Also a versatile piece that you can use way past graduation, this style features a resort collar, cuffed short sleeves, and black button-downs for a classic but elevated look that fun and flirty thank to the pleated skirt.
- Sizes: XXS–XXL
You might know STAUD for its bags, but the brand also makes dresses that are perfect for graduation and beyond. This sleeveless white dress is made from stretch cotton poplin and features a bateau neckline, a fitted waistline, and standout flared skirt that will look great both under a gown and once you take it off!
- Sizes: 00–16
For a less subtle take on midriff baring, this silk two piece from Reformation will make sure you stand out against a crowd. The dark brown is a great alternative for the classic black and since this is an investment piece you will be able to wear both the maxi skirt and the tied halter top on their own after graduation.
- Sizes: XS–XL
Available in both classic black and this chocolate brown, this maxi dress from Abercrombie is perfect to tap into the drop waist trend for graduation while prioritizing comfort. It’s made from jersey fabric and features an off-the-shoulder neckline for extra glam. The best part? You don’t have to worry about finding the right bra for it since it also had a seamed in bra with removable pads.
- Sizes: XXS–XL
Think of this as the dress version of a mullet: Classic on the front and party on the back. Though it might look like your typical square neck black dress, the bows down the back give this A-line cotton dress an unexpected twist that’s perfect for a glamorous day like graduation. The best part? It has side-seam pockets so you don’t have to worry about carrying your essentials elsewhere!
- Sizes: XS–XL
If you always pictured yourself wearing a corset to graduation but want to prioritize comfort, this style from Reformation, featuring a corset-style bodice, a smocked back waist, and a gathered neckline with a tie, is a perfect in between that taps into trend like coquettecore while feeling timeless. It is made of 100% linen which means it will be perfect for many summers after graduation, too!
- Sizes: 0–12
Another dress alternative to wear under your graduation gown is a suit. Whether you opt for a skirt or pants as your bottoms, you are going to want to have a great blazer to anchor the look. This loose three-button blazer with notched lapels will be great for spring and summer and you will surely get a chance to rewear it once you enter the job market after graduation.
- Sizes: XS–XL
For an even more out-there suit vibe, consider wearing a pinstriped suit combo complete with a vest. The great part about this wool-blend option is that you can go more formal with the blazer or tone it down with just the vest for a more casual edge.
- Sizes: 00–16
If you want a dress that has a bit of a suit flair, this peplum poplin shirt midi dress with dropped shoulders from Eloquii might just be what you are after. It has a shirt collar, is super flattering, is made of 100% cotton, comes in classic graduation colors, and will be a timeless addition to your wardrobe.
- Sizes: 14–32
If you want a more summery vibe, a mini dress is always a good option to wear under your graduation gown, helping you stay fresh and breezy. This soft cotton one from Abercrombie features a scoop neckline and pockets and comes in black, white, green, yellow, and floral, so you can choose the one that suits your style best.
- Sizes: XS–XXL
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