Graduation is an important milestone in a man’s life, and choosing the right outfit is crucial to look sharp and celebrate this special occasion in style. Here are some detailed suggestions on what to wear for different types of graduation ceremonies and related events.
Graduation Ceremony Attire
Indoor Ceremonies: For most formal indoor commencements, a suit is the classic and appropriate choice. Opt for a versatile navy or charcoal suit as these colors match any gown color and can be worn on many other occasions in the future. Pair it with a crisp white shirt for a clean and polished look. Make sure the shirt fits well, not too tight or too loose. When it comes to shoes, black shoes with a matching black belt are a safe and elegant option. However, for a more seasonal spring-summer look, you can try a cognac shade. Complete the outfit with a tie that coordinates with the shoes and suit. You can also add a touch of fun by choosing a tie in your school colors or a standout print.
Outdoor Ceremonies: If your graduation ceremony is outdoors, you need to consider both style and comfort as it can be hot and you may have to stand for a long time. Instead of a full suit, you can choose tailored slacks or chinos in neutral hues like khaki or grey. Match them with a collared dress shirt, and you can skip the tie for a more casual yet still refined look. Lightweight materials such as cotton, poplin, or linen are recommended as they will help keep you cool under the heavy graduation gown. To add a pop of personality, you can pair patterned socks with your dress shoes or even go sockless.
Graduation Photo Outfits
With Graduation Gown: When taking graduation photos with the gown on, the key is to have a well-fitted dress shirt and dress pants that look good even when partially covered by the gown. A light-colored shirt, such as soft blue or subtle pink, can add a touch of freshness to the overall look. Make sure the collar of the shirt is crisp and lies flat. The dress pants should be the right length, just touching your ankles, and have a comfortable fit around the waist and hips.
Without Graduation Gown: For photos without the gown, you have more flexibility to show your personal style. A classic combination is a button-down shirt paired with dark-colored jeans or chinos. You can choose a shirt with a pattern or texture to add some visual interest. Roll up the sleeves of the shirt slightly for a more relaxed and casual look. Add a belt and a pair of loafers or dress shoes to complete the outfit. If you prefer a more preppy style, you can wear a polo shirt with khaki pants and boat shoes7.
Graduation Party Attire
Casual backyard parties or pool-side celebrations: For these more laid-back celebrations, you can swap the button-down shirt for a seasonal polo shirt. Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors like earthy green or subdued salmon to embrace the summer vibes. Pair it with lightweight shorts that will keep you cool as the party winds down.Canvas sneakers are a great choice for footwear as they are comfortable and stylish, allowing you to move around easily. Add a belt to complete the look.
Formal graduation parties: If the graduation party is more formal, you may want to wear a suit or a blazer with dress pants. You can choose a more modern or trendy suit style,such as a slim-fit or a patterned suit. Pair it with a dress shirt and a tie, or you can leave the tie off for a less formal but still polished look. Finish the outfit with dress shoes and consider adding some accessories like a pocket square or a watch to enhance the overall look.
Considerations for Different Body Types
Tall and Slim: Tall and slim men can pull off a wide range of styles. They look great in well-tailored suits, especially those with a more fitted cut that accentuates their height and build. A double-breasted suit can also add some bulk and create a more commanding presence. For a more casual look, they can wear longline coats or cardigans over a simple shirt and jeans combination.
Short and Slim: Short and slim men should aim to create the illusion of height. They can choose suits with vertical stripes or patterns that elongate the body. High-waisted pants can also make the legs look longer. Avoid wearing clothes that are too baggy or oversized as they can make you look shorter. Instead, opt for a more fitted silhouette and choose shoes with a low heel or no heel to maintain a streamlined look.
Athletic Build: Men with an athletic build can show off their physique in well-fitted clothing. A suit with a more structured shoulder and a tapered waist will highlight their broad shoulders and narrow waist. They can also choose shirts with a slightly looser fit around the chest and arms to accommodate their muscular build. For a casual look, a fitted polo shirt or a Henley shirt paired with jeans or chinos will look great.
Larger Build: Men with a larger build should focus on wearing clothes that are both comfortable and flattering. A suit with a classic or relaxed fit is a good choice as it provides more room and doesn’t cling to the body. Dark-colored clothing can have a slimming effect, so opt for navy, charcoal, or black suits. Choose shirts with a vertical pattern or a simple solid color to create a more streamlined look. Avoid wearing clothes with horizontal stripes or large prints as they can make you look wider.
Accessories to Complete the Look
Ties and Bow Ties: Ties and bow ties are essential accessories for formal graduation attire. Choose a tie that complements the color of your suit and shirt. A solid-colored tie is a classic choice, but you can also opt for a patterned tie to add some personality. For a more formal look, a silk tie is recommended. Bow ties are a great alternative for those who want to make a statement or have a more vintage-inspired look.
Belts: A good quality belt can enhance the overall look of your outfit. Match the color of your belt with your shoes for a coordinated and polished appearance. For formal occasions, a leather belt with a simple buckle is the best choice. If you are wearing a more casual outfit, you can choose a fabric or woven belt in a complementary color.
Shoes: The right shoes can make or break your graduation look. For formal ceremonies, black or brown dress shoes are the most appropriate. Make sure they are clean and polished. If you are wearing a suit, opt for lace-up shoes for a more traditional look. For a more casual or outdoor event, you can choose loafers, boat shoes, or canvas sneakers depending on the style of your outfit.
Pocket Squares: Pocket squares are a small but significant detail that can add a touch of elegance and sophistication to your suit. Choose a pocket square in a color or pattern that coordinates with your tie or shirt. You can fold it in different ways to create different looks, such as a simple square fold or a more elaborate puff fold.
Watches: A watch is not only a functional accessory but also a stylish addition to your graduation outfit. Choose a watch that suits your personal style and the formality of the occasion. A classic leather strap watch is a great choice for formal events, while a sporty or casual watch can be worn for more laid-back celebrations.
Tips for Choosing the Right Outfit
Consider the Venue and Weather: Think about the location and weather conditions of the graduation ceremony and related events. If it’s outdoors, choose lightweight and breathable fabrics to stay cool. If it’s indoors, you may need to consider the temperature of the venue and dress accordingly.Don’t wait until the last minute to choose your graduation outfit. Give yourself enough time to shop around, try on different clothes, and make any necessary alterations. This will ensure that you have a well-fitting and stylish outfit for the big day.
Be True to Your Style: While it’s important to dress appropriately for the occasion, don’t be afraid to show your personal style. Choose clothes and accessories that make you feel confident and comfortable. You can add your own unique touches to the traditional graduation attire to make it more memorable.
Coordinate with Your Classmates or Group: If you are graduating as part of a group or with classmates, you may want to coordinate your outfits to some extent. This doesn’t mean you have to wear exactly the same thing, but you can choose a similar color scheme or style to create a cohesive look in photos.
Pay Attention to Details: The devil is in the details, so make sure to pay attention to the small details of your outfit. Iron your clothes, make sure your shoes are polished, and your accessories are clean and in good condition. These little details can make a big difference in your overall appearance.
In conclusion, choosing the right outfit for graduation is an important decision that can help you look and feel your best on this special day. Whether you prefer a formal suit or a more casual look, make sure to choose clothes that are comfortable, well-fitting, and reflect your personal style. With the right outfit and accessories, you’ll be ready to celebrate your graduation in style and create memories that will last a lifetime.
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