As graduation day approaches, you’re certain your transcript is up-to-date, you’re finishing up all those papers, you’re talking to your parents daily about graduation weekend plans and you’ve almost got it all figured out. Only one question remains: what to wear to each and every graduation event. Appropriate attire varies from event to event during graduation because you go from ceremony to meal to class gathering to the bar with your friends. Since we pack so much into just a few short days, there’s no question that our closet doors will be ever revolving. As you prepare yourself for that exciting (or dreaded) day, consider some of these affordable outfit options for every graduation event you can think of.
Class Reception
Think casual but sophisticated for an event like this. You’ll be surrounded by peers and teachers alike, so modesty is key. But feel free to embrace fun colors like baby pink and current trends like metal embellishments on sandals. This top-and-skirt ensemble will have you ready to raise that glass to your classmates and friends.
Mossimo Women’s Sleeveless Top, $20 at Target.com.
Pink Scuba Skater Skirt, $18 at OwnTheRunway.com.
Aimee Metallic T-Bar Gladiator Sandal, $36 at Boohoo.com.
H&M Shoulder Bag, $23 at HM.com.
Class Formal
This can definitely be a fun event, but there’s no need to go all-out club attire when you’re going out and socializing with more than just your usual circle of friends. A solid A-line mini dress with patterned wedge sandals is the perfect look for a more formal celebration in which your entire graduating class is involved. Add in a punch of pink with a cute and refined envelope clutch that’ll hold all of your belongings.
Curve 02 Graphic Geo Strappy Wedge, $32 at Agacistore.com.
Leather Envelope Clutch, $40 at GAP.com.
Honor Society Ceremony
Your college transcript shows that you played the part of an exceptional student, so for this event, it’s only right to show that you can dress the part, too. Stick with a neutral, lightweight dress with ballet flats and add in some color in the form of a cardigan, in case it gets chilly. To keep things interesting and stylish – because we’re certain that events like these would make for dreadful runway shows – throw on statement earrings or a necklace.
Grey Chiffon Belted Dress, $30 at NewLook.com.
Patent Ballet Flats, $17 at Forever21.com.
Black and Gold Statement Necklace, $18 at SimplyAudrey.com.
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Graduation Day
For the actual day – you know, the one where your dress barely even matters because it’ll be covered by that unflattering gown – choose something lightweight and easy to maneuver in. Comfortable wedges are definitely a must for this day. Make a statement with earrings, since they’ll be one of the only parts of your outfit that’ll really be seen anyway.
Short Sleeve Lace Dress, $44 at DorothyPerkins.com.
Strappy Jute Wedge Sandal, $33 at CharlotteRusse.com.
Style Tryst Chevron Earrings, $24 at SimplySoles.com.
Graduation Night Out
When you hit the town with your friends to celebrate, make sure your get-up is super bright, with a healthy dose of trend. A studded top with punchy skinny jeans are the perfect choice to spend the night following one of the most overwhelming days of your life. Finish this look off with a cute pair of wedges and a piece of statement jewelry.
Dome Stud Tank, $14 at Forever21.com.
Coral Zip Pocket Skinny Jeans, $15 at Fashionunion.com.
ALDO Zingg Wedges, $50 at ALDOshoes.com.
OASIS Leaf Double Ring, $12 Oasis-stores.com.
Family Brunch
After you’ve partied all night, it’ll be brunch time before you know it. Stay cozy through your interrupted-by-brunch hangover with a chunky knitted top and cute floral patterned shorts. Top the look off with a pair of versatile flat sandals. These items are sure to keep you comfortable and relaxed throughout a crazy brunch with the fam.
Knitted Top, $30 at Monki.com.
Coated Floral Shorts, $35 at Topshop.com.
Flat Sandal, $30 at Modcloth.com.
No matter the occasion, you’re bound to look fabulous. What graduation event are you most looking forward to? Tell us below!