What to wear to a graduation ceremony

As POPSUGAR editors, we independently curate and write about things we love and think you’ll love too. If you purchase a product that we have recommended to you, we may receive an affiliate commission, which in turn supports our work.

Can’t decide what the proper dress code is when considering what to wear to graduation? While you can always ask your peers or fellow guests to come up with a final answer, there’s still a degree of pressure to look sophisticated for the big moment while also conveying your personal style. The good news? Come spring and summerthere is a lot of maxi lightweight dresses, bespoke jumpsuitsand cute combo outfits that can go through any number of dressing requirements.

Whether you’re being invited to someone else’s graduation ceremony or walking across the stage to smile with your diploma in hand, these outfits pair perfectly with a gown and look incredibly polished on their own. After all, just being in the presence of people being honored for their hard work requires a serious costume moment, so don’t shy away from the opulence. These days, there’s less worry about following mandatory rules when it comes to your wardrobe. The best advice is to stick to specific proportions if you’re a graduate, so your appearance doesn’t distract or clutter up under your cap and gown.

The 22 unique designs below run the gamut when it comes to cut, color, and overall aesthetic. If your taste is more refined, try the LBD by Henning or the midi slip by Aritzia, and add an extra layer on top in the form of a cardigan or blazer. if you are a androgynous boudoir, a suit from Indochino, Anthropologie or The Frankie Shop might be just what you need. And don’t take away the academic appeal of a crisp white button-down dress or shirt as your base, which will help you take advantage of the light academy trend.

Below, choose from several solid options that definitely pass the test when it comes to what to wear to a graduation ceremony.