How to Look Good at Graduation

Co-authored by Elle Monus

Last Updated: December 25, 2022 References

Graduation is a day that many people look forward to. It's a big day and with a transition in life looming, can be pretty scary. You can alleviate some of the stress of the day by planning ahead and knowing exactly how you want to look for all those pictures, friends, and family.

Method 1

Method 1 of 2:

Getting Your Cap and Gown Perfect

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Order your cap and gown plenty early. Your school will have an ordering process for your cap and gown. Order it plenty early to avoid scrambling at the last minute.
- Keep your graduation attire until graduation. You'll want to take everything out and make sure it's all there. Your package should come with four main components: a gown, cap, tassel and hood. ^{[1]
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Try it on and make sure it fits. Gowns are based on your height and the length should come down to at least your knees and be loose fitting. Hats are generally come in a universal size but you'll want to make sure it fits.

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Put your graduation cap on correctly. Your cap, also known as a mortar board will be flat with a square top. It should be put on your head so that the board (the flat part) is parallel to your shoulders. The hat will have a tassel attached to the top on a button. It is customary that the tassel hangs on the right side of the hat until you graduate, then you move it to the left side of the board. ^{[2]
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- If you have long hair, bring along bobby pins in case you need to fasten the cap to your hair to prevent it from flying off in the wind.
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Putting the rest of your attire on correctly. You may also need to wear a particular hood or cords depending on your degree or distinctions. Advanced degrees usually come with particular hood colors based on your department and should be put on over your head so that it drapes across the shoulders and down the back of the gown with the lining of the hood down to display its colors.
- If you have any honors cords, they should be draped over the left side of your gown.

Method 2

Method 2 of 2:

Looking Your Best for Graduation

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Wear comfortable and style underneath your gown. Make sure it cloths lays smoothly under your cap and gown. Most schools typically choose dark neutral colors like blue or black for your cap and gown. You'll want your outfit to match. Wear something sleek since your robe will already be bulky. A loose, free flowing dress is a great option, especially in bold, bright colors. For guys, a classic dressy look without a suit coat jacket can make a great look. A tie is a must. ^{[3]
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- If you are celebrating after graduation with a party or dinner, know whether you'll have time to change. If you won't, wear an outfit you'll also be comfortable in without the cap and gown. ^{[4]
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- Check the weather. You'll want to prepare for the temperature and bad weather. Dress warm or cool based on the weather and inside/outside auditorium.
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Wear something with pockets. You aren't going to be able to wear a bag or purse on stage and you may want your keys, wallet and phone nearby. This can also be useful to keep your phone to take pictures of your friends to remember the day.
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Decide how you want your hair to look. You'll likely wear a graduation cap, but you can still choose a unique style that will look great whether your cap is on or off. If your hair is longer, you may be stuck in a warm, cramped environment so you'll likely want to keep your hair off your neck to help stay cool. A simple pony-tail, side-braid, or your hair up can be great ways to keep cool and look good once the cap comes off. ^{[5]
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- If you are using some sort of product of hairspray, make sure to use a heat protectant spray and primer so it can handle the heat under your cap. This definitely applies for guys who may want to avoid wearing any sort of hair product that can sweat down. ^{[6]
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- Find a picture of the hairstyle you want.That way whether it's your hairdresser, barber, or friend, they can clearly see the vision you have in your head for how you want to look.
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Take your graduation attire into consideration when doing make-up. The cap will draw attention to your face so make sure your skin and things like eye-brows are exactly how you want them. Also, the cap will case a shadow on your face which can give you the appearance of dark circles, even if you don't usually have them. Adding a little extra concealer, particularly under your eyes, can help this. ^{[7]
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- Avoid any overly heavy make-up that may sweat off or make your skin feel suffocated.
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Pick out comfortable and stylish shoes. Virtually the only thing people will be able to see are your shoes. You'll want to choose a dressy pair but also something that is comfortable. You may have to walk from the staging area to your seat and of course across stage. While a pair of stilettos may be inappropriate, you'll want to avoid being overly casual like a pair of flip flops. ^{[8]
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Choose accessories that accent your outfit and gown. Since most of your outfit will be hidden, and you have little choice over the cap and gown you'll wear, finding some accessories like jewelry can be a great way to personalize your look. A classic necklace like a string of pearls can really personalize your look as well as your favorite earrings.
- Sometimes there is custom jewelry made and sold by your school for the occasion. This can be a good way to commemorate the event with a piece of jewelry you'll always have.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I get ready for year 12 if I'm only in year 9?

Hannah Jolie Saucy

Community Answer

Don't worry too much about specifics. Right now, just: 1. Build your study skills. 2. Make sure you are doing your best at school. 3. Get interested in extracurricular activities (universities see that, even in year 9). 4. Work on whatever subject you find hardest. 5. Talk to your teachers or guidance counselors for more information.

Warnings

Graduations take months of preparation, so don't skimp on any little detail. Make sure everything is perfect, so you don't feel jealous of everyone else on the night.

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