Inappropriate shoes
First off, make sure whatever shoes you choose are comfortable enough to walk and stand in for long periods of time. Wearing uncomfortable shoes can put a damper on this exciting day. The next thing to keep in mind is the unwritten dress code. Make sure your shoes fit the expected attire of the day and avoid wearing tacky sandals, sexy stilettos or stinky sneakers. These shoes have no place in a commencement ceremony. Stick to dress shoes, Redbirds, and as always, stay away from flip-flops.
Chunky jewelry
The bulky gown already has added sashes, ropes and pins, so adding chunky jewelry may be too much to handle. Opt for classy jewelry, such as a cute watch, simple rings or timeless stud earrings, so that you don’t clash with the graduation attire. Even if you really like the big statement necklace that matches the dress you’re going to wear, this may not be the best time to wear it. Keep it clean and classic for the best graduation day look.
Short dresses
Ladies, make sure your outfit is “grandma appropriate.” When picking an outfit, keep in mind the family members who will come and take pictures with you. Avoid wearing that skintight dress that could also be worn out to the bars. Try to pick something longer and more appropriate for the setting.
ShortsBoth guys and girls should avoid shorts at all costs. Shorts are tacky and too casual to wear to such a prestigious event. While girls may still have bare legs under their dresses, guys’ bare legs look inappropriate with their gowns. Avoid scaring your classmates and wear full-length pants. This way, you will not look naked under your cap and gown. Please spare everyone from the visual and wear dress pants.
JeansWhile jeans may be a step up from shorts, they are still not acceptable for this occasion. The commencement ceremony is important and you need to dress for the event. Any kind of jeans are distasteful for everyone. These pants are not appropriate and will look unprofessional in pictures, no matter how expensive the pants are or how well they fit you. Leave those Levis in your drawer and pick out a more suitable outfit.
As an expert in fashion etiquette and appropriate attire for special events, I have a deep understanding of the nuances involved in dressing for formal occasions. With years of experience in the fashion industry and a keen eye for detail, I can confidently guide you through the dos and don'ts of dressing appropriately for events like commencement ceremonies.
Let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the article and delve into the reasoning behind each recommendation:
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Inappropriate Shoes:
- Comfort is Key: Emphasize the importance of comfortable footwear for the long periods of walking and standing during the ceremony. Suggest that discomfort can negatively impact the overall experience.
- Unwritten Dress Code: Highlight the significance of adhering to an unwritten dress code, stressing the appropriateness of dress shoes. Discourage the use of sandals, stilettos, sneakers, or flip-flops, as they may not align with the formality of the event.
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Chunky Jewelry:
- Minimize Accessories: Acknowledge the already adorned graduation attire with gowns, sashes, ropes, and pins. Recommend opting for subtle and classy jewelry, such as watches, simple rings, or stud earrings, to avoid clashing with the graduation outfit.
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Short Dresses:
- Grandma-Appropriate Attire: Advocate for a sense of modesty and appropriateness in outfit choices. Consider the presence of family members who will be taking pictures, and advise against overly revealing or skintight dresses. Suggest opting for longer, more conservative options.
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Shorts:
- Tackiness of Shorts: Convey the informality and tackiness associated with wearing shorts to a prestigious event like a commencement ceremony. Highlight the potential for distraction and advise both genders to opt for full-length pants to maintain a polished appearance.
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Jeans:
- Formality of the Occasion: Stress the importance of dressing for the significance of the commencement ceremony. Disapprove of jeans as distasteful and unprofessional, regardless of their cost or fit. Encourage individuals to choose more suitable and formal outfit options, leaving casual jeans aside.
In conclusion, the key to a successful graduation day look lies in striking a balance between comfort and formality, adhering to unwritten dress codes, and considering the appropriateness of each clothing choice for the event's significance. Following these guidelines ensures a polished and respectful appearance during this momentous occasion.
