May is here, which means a slew of graduation ceremonies to attend. Whether you’re the one walking across the stage or a guest cheering on a loved one, you will want to look polished and feel comfortable for the occasion.

Bright colors dominate the day, so feel free to embrace the rainbow with your graduation guest outfit to match the festive mood. Regardless of the weather, you will want to bring layers and wear comfortable shoes because it is likely that you will do a lot of walking outside. To help you decide what to wear to a graduation, we’ve pulled together several looks below.

What to Wear to a Morning Graduation Ceremony

Morning graduation ceremonies are often more laid back, so feel free to wear a sundress or linen trousers. The important thing here is to have fun with what you wear to graduation, as it is ultimately a celebration!

You can’t go wrong with a floral dress and a pair of playful hoops, either. We love the Machete Kate Hoops from our Summer 2019 Box of Style. These easy and stylish earrings add the perfect finishing touch to any graduation guest outfit.

When deciding what to wear to a graduation ceremony, it’s important to think about your footwear. Espadrilles like Castaner’s canvas pair are a great choice of shoes as they won’t sink into the grass like a stiletto. They also tend to be dressier than sneakers or flats, which is perfect if you’re going to a celebratory brunch or lunch after the ceremony.

Choosing the Right Graduation Guest Outfit for an Afternoon Affair

An afternoon ensemble will naturally be a bit more formal as it dovetails into dinner and parties. A jumpsuit or dress like the effortless Ganni chiffon wrap dress will transition nicely into the evening.

Opt for a small bag that won’t be too much of a hassle to carry, like an on-trend Danielle Nicole Macramé Handbag from your Summer 2019 Box of Style. This versatile crochet bag lends a super chic look to however you dress for a graduation ceremony, and will hold all of your essentials.

How to Dress for a Formal Graduation

Certain ceremonies, particularly those for higher education, will be more formal. You’ll want to respect the ambience by wearing a more conservative outfit. An idea of appropriate dress for a graduation ceremony that’s more formal is to opt for a luxurious jacket or vest and flowy palazzo pants (we love this Mara Mac pair) with glamorous accessories to create an effortless, elegant formal look.

Look no further than your own natural beauty for one of the best accessories. Your eyebrows can be a striking complement to any graduation guest outfit. Try a brow setter and shaping gel for true statement eyebrows. 

What the Graduate Should Wear to the Ceremony

Even though the grad will wear a traditional cap and gown over their outfit, a beautiful white dress for a graduation ceremony is a timeless choice. Like a bride on her wedding day, the graduate will be the center of attention as white is a color which inherently stands out. We love the Keepsake mini dress as a chic yet appropriate dress for a graduation ceremony.

A beautiful broderie anglaise dress is perfect for early summer ceremonies and pairs well with simple gold accessories and a colorful silk scarf. Be sure to wear block heels or wedges that are secure and comfortable so you can walk across the stage with confidence. And don't forget your skin! Opt for an oil-free moisturizer with 40 SPF or higher so your skin stays flawless and protected on this occasion. Figuring out what to wear for graduation should be the easiest decision of your big day!

Deciding what to wear to a graduation ceremony as either a guest or graduate doesn’t have to take away from the big day. Embrace the celebration with these effortless ideas, and you’ll look chic while getting wrapped up in the celebratory spirit and school pride.