What to Wear to a Graduation!

Happy Monday! I'm not in the Big Apple at the moment--had to fly home to watch my sister graduate this weekend. Graduation is one of those occasions where nobody tells the guests (or the graduates) what to wear. Fortunately, The Gathered Lady is here to help. Below are some quick tips for this graduation season.

Macy's

1. Leave your jeans at home. I know, I love my denim too, but it doesn't work for every occasion. If you want to wear pants, consider a pair of slim-fitting, cropped pants like these from MICHAEL by Michael Kors. Choose colorful or printed pants for extra style points.
2. Be careful not to overdress. Think slightly more casual than your Sunday best. The rule here is similar to our advice on dressing for a first date. You want to aim for pretty, not fierce. Remember, you'll be surrounded by parents and grandparents!J. Crew
3. Don't be afraid to rock a trend. You can still be stylish without going full fashionista. There are many spring trends that are perfect for a graduation outfit. Think about incorporating pretty florals, stripes and lace detailing. This past weekend, I wore a multi-colored faux-wrap dress with an ethnic print to my sister's graduation, while she wore a bright orange strapless dress. Quick note for graduates: stay away from full skirts on graduation day. The extra volume will be visible (and not very flattering) underneath your gown.
4. It's May! Be colorful! It can be tempting to throw on a LBD (little black dress) and be done with it, but resist! You'll be celebrating a happy occasion, let it show with your outfit choice.
5. Don't overdo the makeup. Remember, it's graduation. It will be the middle of the day and you will be in a ton of pictures. Heavy makeup is not your friend. Try a fresh-faced look with warm, light colors. Think golds and neutrals for your eyes, pinks and peaches for your cheeks and lips, and light on the eyeliner. Zappos
6. Wear cute, practical shoes. I cannot stress this enough. If you're a graduate, you are going to be doing a lot of walking, including up and down stairs when you cross the stage. The last thing you want is to take a spill because you're teetering on six-inch stilettos. Graduates and guests alike will be doing a great deal of standing around after the actual ceremony to take pictures and it will be a very long walk back to the car if your feet hurt. Days like this are best served by cute sandals and wedges. Just don't forget to take care of your heels and toes before the big day!
7. Mind the weather. The last thing you want is an impromptu rain shower ruining your hair and makeup. Don't forget to bring an umbrella, and stay away from suede shoes, which can be ruined if they get wet. If it's an outdoor graduation, check the weather beforehand and pack a coat or extra blankets if it is going to be chilly.

Have a graduation to attend this month? Are you graduating? Send us a picture from the big day, and if we love it, we'll share it! Congratulations to all of the fabulous graduates from the ladies of The Gathered Lady!