What to Wear to a Graduation
Content editor
Else Hutt
What to wear to a graduation as a guest
Deciding what to wear to a graduation can be tricky. As a guest, it needs to be special enough to mark your loved one's significant moment, but comfortable enough to see you through a potentially long day. Whether you're a family friend, or a mother who's not sure what to wear to your son or daughter's graduation ceremony, we've got graduation outfit ideas for you.
Choosing the right fit and fabric is key. You'll most likely be standing or sitting down for long periods of time, so comfort is essential. Plus, you don't want to be worrying about creases, so the type of fabric is important too.
Our tea dresses are a great choice: designed with a feminine fit and made from floaty fabrics that will keep you cool and comfortable all day. If you're worried about wearing anything too restrictive, try a column-style dress that's cut to a flattering (and looser) shape. Top tip: opt for mood-boosting prints that won't only bring a joyful feel to your outfit, but will also disguise any creases.

What to wear under a graduation gown
If you're searching for a pared-back outfit to wear under your graduation gown, we recommend sticking to a monochrome palette. A simple black skirt paired with a white blouse works well and always looks chic. Choose low-heeled sandals or shoes that feel dressed up, but are still easy to walk across the stage in. Add gold jewellery for a polished finish.
Tailored trousers are a guaranteed hit when it comes to formal dressing. They can be worn with an array of footwear, from loafers to ballet pumps. If you're continuing the celebrations post ceremony, swap your gown for a coordinating blazer.
Whether you pick a formal dress, shirt dress, or wrap dress, a midi-length dress is foolproof and can easily be dressed up with chunky jewellery and heels. Feeling bold? Tap into this season's polka-dot trend with our strapless bandeau dress, or lean into a summery mood with a vibrant yellow tea dress.

What to wear to a winter graduation
For winter graduation ceremonies you don't have to compromise on style for the sake of warmth. We have a whole host of elegant long-sleeved dresses offering you extra coverage during the colder months. This blue shirt dress ticks all the boxes: with an elevated paisley print and designed with long balloon sleeves to keep draughts at bay, it's the perfect choice. Still feeling the chill? Slip on tights and knee-high boots for a snug finish.
If quiet luxury is more your thing, make a subtle statement with a sleek, tailored suit. This smart waistcoat brings welcome structure to your silhouette, whilst these wide-leg trousers bring just enough volume to create balance. For post-ceremony celebrations, finish your outfit with a co-ordinating blazer.
For a considered (and cosy) silhouette, try a smart wraparound coat that ties at the waist for a cinched-in look. Or, opt for a double-breasted coat to deliver a tailored finish to your graduation outfit.
Published 6.17.2025
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