What Should Parents Wear To College Graduation? (Outfit Ideas For 2024)
Is your child graduating from college this year? If so, you’re probably wondering what should parents wear to college graduation? Here are some outfit ideas and guidelines to follow for this occasion.
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The day your child graduates from college is a momentous occasion and one that you will want to remember forever.
As a parent, you will want to look your best to show your pride in your child’s hard work and achievements. However, it can be difficult to know what is appropriate attire for such a special event.
While there’s no one “right” outfit, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you’re dressed appropriately for the occasion.
Here are some tips for what parents should wear to their child’s college graduation ceremony.
Guidelines For What Parents Should Wear To Graduation
Before planning your outfit, check your invitation and ask your child for dress code guidelines. If the school wants guests to dress formally, they’ll communicate this requirement.
Also, be sure to find out if there are policies that limit your wardrobe options.
For example, some schools have a clear bag policy for graduation. Regular purses and backpacks are not allowed.
Handy Tip: Wear garments with deep pockets to hold your essentials if you’re attending a clear bag ceremony.
Here are some general guidelines for what to wear:
- Choose comfortable clothing. Graduation ceremonies can last several hours.
- Wear well-fitting clothing you feel good in so you’re not tempted to hide from the cameras. This is a big day and you’ll want to capture some memories!
- Clean and iron your outfit before the big day. You don’t want to run out of time on the morning of the ceremony and show up in wrinkled or stained clothing.
- Don’t go with anything too revealing. As the parent of the graduate, you want the focus to be on them, not you. Now is not the time to show up in anything too revealing or edgy.
- Pick timeless pieces of clothing. The pictures from your child’s graduation ceremony will be looked at for years. Don’t go with anything too trendy or bold that may go out of style in a year or two.
Now that we’ve covered some basic guidelines, it’s time to go over some outfit ideas for parents to wear to college graduation ceremonies.
College Graduation Outfit Ideas For Dads
Dressing for a graduation ceremony as a dad of the graduate is about finding the right balance between comfort and formality.
Here are some outfit ideas that are both respectful for the occasion and comfortable:
Classic Blazer or Sports Jacket: A blazer or sports jacket in a neutral color like navy, grey, or black can be paired with a dress shirt. This combination offers a polished look without being too formal.
Dress Shirt and Slacks: A well-fitting dress shirt paired with slacks is a timeless choice. Opt for light, breathable fabrics if the ceremony is in a warmer season.
Suit and Tie: If the dress code calls for formal attire, you should wear a suit and tie. A well-fitted suit in a classic color like navy, grey, or black is a safe and respectful choice. Pair it with a dress shirt and a tie.
Chinos and a Polo Shirt: For a slightly more casual yet put-together look, consider chinos with a polo shirt. This is especially suitable for outdoor ceremonies or less formal events.
Sweater or Cardigan Over a Dress Shirt: If the graduation is during a cooler season, layering a sweater or cardigan over a dress shirt can be both stylish and practical.
When deciding what to wear to your son or daughter’s graduation, you should also consider shoes and accessories.
Loafers, Oxfords, or dress shoes are a great choice. Make sure they are comfortable, as you might be standing for long periods.
If you’re wearing a dress shirt without a jacket, a nice tie can add to the overall look of your outfit. You could also add tasteful accessories like a watch or leather belt.
Fashion Tip: Add a pocket square or cufflinks to make your outfit more formal, or skip the tie for a less polished look.
Remember, the goal is to look respectful and presentable without overshadowing the graduate. It’s their big day, and your attire should reflect your pride and happiness for their achievement.
College Graduation Ceremony Outfits For Moms
For moms attending a graduation ceremony, the goal is to find an outfit that’s stylish, comfortable, and appropriate for the occasion.
Here are some outfit ideas that moms can wear to their child’s graduation ceremony:
Dress with a Light Jacket or Cardigan: A knee-length dress in a comfortable fabric, paired with a light jacket or cardigan, is both elegant and practical. Choose a dress in a solid color or a subtle print.
Flowy Midi or Maxi Skirt with a Blouse: A flowy midi or maxi skirt paired with a nice blouse can be both comfortable and stylish. This is a great option for warmer weather.
Tailored Pants and a Blouse: For a more formal look, tailored pants with a blouse can be a great choice. Opt for light, breathable fabrics if the ceremony is during a warm season.
Fashion Tip: You can swap dress pants for jeans for a more casual look. Add a blazer and kitten or wedge heels to dress up the look.
Comfortable Jumpsuit or Romper: A jumpsuit or romper can be a chic and comfortable option. Choose one in a solid color or with a minimal pattern for a sophisticated look.
Elegant Dress: For more formal dress codes, a knee-length or midi dress is a classic choice. Opt for a dress in a solid color or a subtle pattern. Fabrics like silk, chiffon, or crepe can add a touch of elegance.
Of course, shoes and accessories can also make or break your graduation day outfit.
Comfortable shoes like flats, wedges, or low heels are practical choices that still look nice. Just make sure that you can stand in them comfortably for long periods.
When it comes to jewelry, simple and understated is often the safest bet. Pearl earrings or a delicate necklace will add a touch of elegance to your outfit without being too flashy.
If the venue allows for it, bring a small tote or clutch for essentials like water, snacks, and sunscreen.
For outdoor ceremonies or cooler weather, a light scarf or shawl can be both practical and stylish.
Remember, the most important aspect is that you feel comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing. It’s a special day, and your outfit should reflect the joy and pride of the occasion.
What Should Parents NOT Wear To Their Child’s Graduation?
While most schools don’t have a strict dress code for college graduations, you should avoid clothing that’s revealing, sloppy, or too formal (like ballgowns and tuxedos).
Also, avoid hats that block the view of guests behind you and jewelry that makes noise when you move, like clanky necklaces and jingly earrings.
Here are items that are may be no-no’s for parents of college graduates:
- Ripped or acid-wash jeans
- Hooded sweatshirts
- Blouses with plunging necklines
- Crop tops
- Flip-flops
- Shorts and miniskirts
- Baseball caps
Is your child graduating soon? Here are some resources for celebrating their big achievement:
