10 Graduation Dresses You Need To Buy
Graduation season is upon us and the chances are, within the next couple of month, you too will be taking to the stage to receive your diploma. Finding that perfect dress for this event can be rather stressful; should it be long, short, fitted or loose?! To make your big day a little easier, here are 10 graduation dresses you need to buy!
1. Fitted And Florals
Florals are a timeless look on any dress and suit everybody, so buying one for your graduation will also mean great re-wear value. Depending upon personal preference, either brightly coloured flowers or a pastel hued theme will work well. The fitted style will also be a flattering contrast to the loosely fitted university issued graduation garb. Style with some classic wedges to create a feminine outfit, no accessories required.
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2. Statement Skirt
Dressing up is one of the fun occasions in life. So when you get the chance, why not really go all out? Take this opportunity to really go to the next level with a statement skirt; here bigger really is better. Walking up to collect your graduation diploma is a once in a lifetime opportunity, so it requires a dress you wouldn’t normally buy. When choosing your statement dress, consider fit (something that sits on your waist is going to be super flattering), material (if it’s going to be warm for your graduation, you don’t want something heavy weight), and colour (choose something that will suit your complexion and universities graduation gown). Style with some mid height heels, delicate jewelry and a sleek curled updo.
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3. Evening Maxi
Maxi dresses are a beautiful and classic style of dress that keeps in style summer after summer. The fit is flattering and works really well for both occasion wear and casual day to day life. When choosing your perfect graduation maxi, decide if you’d like something fitted or more loose. Style this look with a pair of pretty wedges, some statement jewelry and loosely styled hair.
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4. Flirty And Short
Dressing formally doesn’t mean you have to wear a long dress. You can successfully dress for graduation in something shorter and more fun. The key here is to find something with a loosely fitting skirt. This length of the skirt in contrast to the fullness of the graduation gown will give a beautiful effect as you collect your diploma. Style with some kitten heels and a bouncy hair do. Jewelry is optional, but should be limited to either a delicate necklace or bracelet.
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5. Mid Length and Classy
On the other side of the coin, if you want something a little more traditional you can always opt for a mid-length graduation dress. The beauty of this type of dress is that it suits every figure; a fitted bodycon or an A-line style, depending upon your own personal preference. Aside from cut, colour is important to think about. If your gown is a darker colour, think about trying a brighter colour dress to stand out and visa-versa. Style this look with some statement shoes, minimal jewelry and slick hair to create a great polished look.
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6. Full Sleeved
The biggest trend of this season is the full statement sleeve, so why not incorporate this into your graduation wardrobe selection? The statement sleeve is a beautiful, romantic trend which suits everybody type. Style this look with some subtle, but pretty heeled pumps, no jewelry and a loosely curled half up, half down hairstyle.
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7. Side Splitting
A side split is a well-known look for an evening/ event wear dress and for good reason. The style creates an elegant and pulled together look with the perk of making anybody wearing it feel extra confident; important when gracing the stage to collect your diploma. This look, for some, may be seen as a bit sexy for a graduation. But next to the covering gown and with the right accessories, this can create a sophisticated look for anybody wearing it. Choose a block colour dress with a high neckline and style with some court shoes and relaxed hair.
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8. Vibrant Reds
If there’s one thing you should want on your graduation, it’s to really draw attention to yourself. You’ve worked hard for the past few years and here you are ready to collect your diploma. Don’t be afraid to try a bright and vibrant red to really stand out; it works great with most skin tones (if it’s washing yours out, just try a different shade) and is a great contrast to the usually dull coloured cap and gown. Style with some black or navy blue coloured shoes and minimal accessories.
9. Glitz And Glam
It’s easy to slink into the background amongst a sea of same coloured robes in your graduation, so why not really stand out in a glittery or shiny dress? This beautiful style dress can be worn at any length, although below knee works best for most body types. The added bonus to this dress is the re-wear value; it can translate so easily into a night look with some slightly different styling. Style it with some mid height block colour matte shoes, a pretty up-do and minimal jewelry.
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10. Two Piece
Although this is a list about graduation dresses, don’t feel limited. Some of us feel more comfortable wearing a skirt and top, or a shirt and some trousers. This is your day, so don’t feel limited to wearing a dress and make sure you feel comfortable. When choosing a two piece, make sure it is fitted well to create a smooth and sleek illusion. Style with some cute pumps or flats, and keep your hair up and sleek to create a great overall look.
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What are your favourite graduation dresses!? Share in the comments below!
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After graduating university in 2015, I've developed a love for fashion and healthy lifestyles. London is my home, but I love to travel at any opportunity possible... destination anywhere.