What To Wear For Graduation — Outfit Ideas For Grads in 2023

It’s almost time for the moment you’ve been working towards for four long years—graduation! Cue the “Pomp and Circumstance,” throwing caps, and plenty of celebrating. And while your robe will be covering up your clothes, you still need to have a graduation outfit at the ready for this momentous occasion.

If you have no clue what to wear for the ceremony, fear not! We’ve compiled a huge list of different graduation outfits that will keep you fashionable and comfortable on the big day. Scroll to find your favorite! The best part? All these outfits are eligible for your Student Beans discount!

Graduation Outfit Ideas

For the Ladies

Not feeling like wearing a dress for graduation? Opt for this super sleek jumpsuit from H&M. The satin material will keep you comfortable all day long, and you’ll look effortlessly cool at the same time.

Skirts are also a great alternative to the usual graduation dress. We love this flowy skirt from Petal & Pup, especially the luxe gold color. Pair it with a simple top for an easy and breezy graduation outfit that will steal the show.

For the Gents

Guys have it pretty easy when it comes to graduation outfits. You can’t go wrong with a classic oxford shirt, and we love the color of this pale blue version from ASOS. The timeless style means it’ll live in your wardrobe for years to come.

If you’re wanting something a little less traditional, a grandad collar is the way to go. This short sleeve version from boohooMAN is a great alternative to the usual simple collared shirt.

Graduation Dresses

While it’s tempting to pick a flashing graduation dress, remember it needs to go under your regalia, which means you don’t want something with a lot of extra bells and whistles. This choice from Love, Bonito is a classic that will never go out of style.

Short dresses are the go-to choice when it comes to picking out what to wear under your regalia due to the ease and simplicity. We decided to punch it up a notch with this mini option from H&M. A little black dress is always a smart choice, and the studs on this one make it extra special.

Plus Size Graduation Dresses

Add a little pomp and circumstance to your actual “Pomp and Circumstance.” This tulle ruffle dress from Missguided is adorable! the spring color is perfect for the ceremony, and you’ll feel like royalty as soon as you put it on.

We’re swooning over the print on this satin wrap dress from H&M. It’s something different from the standard graduation dress, and the material will keep you comfortable, especially if you’re having an outdoor ceremony.

Graduation Shoes

For the Ladies

The last thing you want to do is trip when you’re walking across the stage during the ceremony. If you want an option that still gives you a little height, platforms are your best bet. These sandals from Nasty Gal are easy to walk in, but still plenty fashionable.

If you want to splurge a bit for your grad shoes, these flats from Coach are a great option if you’re too nervous to opt for any kind of heel during the ceremony. The classic Coach print is a nice touch to up your regalia and make you look super glamorous on the big day.

For the Gents

Ditch the boring shoes for graduation—everyone will be able to see your feet when you walk across the stage! Pick something more unique, like these smoking slippers from ASOS. They’re still neutral enough to match your regalia while having something a little extra.

We 100% think it’s acceptable to wear some fresh sneakers to graduation, so grab a new pair of bright white kicks for the occasion. These Nikes from Foot Locker are a great option if you want a more casual show you’ll be able to get plenty of wear out of after graduation.

With so many options, you’ll have a hard time choosing the perfect graduation outfit! Just remember to strut your stuff as you walk across the stage and own it. You’ve worked hard to get there, and you deserve to be in the spotlight for a bit. Congratulations!

Be sure to check out the things no one tells you about graduating from college so you’re ready after you get your diploma. And here’s everything you’ll need to prepare for your first big job interview!