How to Dress to Impress for a Graduation Party

Graduation parties are very common, fun gatherings.

Graduation parties are celebrations not just for the new graduates, but the family and friends that supported them throughout their journey towards earning a degree or diploma. Nowadays, graduation parties range from backyard barbecues to very formal events that cost as much as the average wedding. No matter what type of graduation party you're attending, dressing in a stylish manner will help you stand out.

Instructions

1. Determine the formality of the graduation party. You do not want your appearance to be out of place. For example, if it will be held in someone's backyard, you don't want to show up in a dinner jacket. If you're not sure or can't tell by the information on the invitation, ask the party's host. Graduation parties held at mid-level to expensive restaurants are almost always formal.

2. Avoid wearing the same outfit you did at the actual commencement ceremony. Not only will your attire not impress guests at the graduation party (they will have already seen you in it), but all your graduation pictures will show you wearing the same thing.

3. Wear bold colors as opposed to basic black if you are a female guest at a graduation party, no matter how casual the gathering is. (The exception is if the school's colors just happen to include black.) This will help you stand out, as many people choose to wear "safe" colors. If you prefer to wear a black dress or pants, make the outfit pop with accessories and shoes in a vibrant color. Avoid wearing a t-shirt or graphic tee, even if the party is casual--you'll find many other women at the party wearing these items.

   For example, you can wear basic jeans, a white blouse and cobalt blue shoes and jewelry if the party is casual, and you'll still stand out and look stylish.

4. Dress in a dinner jacket if you are a male guest at a graduation party and the celebration will be semi-formal, formal or a cocktail party.

   If it is a casual gathering, avoid wearing jeans and opt for khaki pants or shorts with a colored, collared shirt. Incorporating school colors is always a good way to help your attire stand out from other guests. For example: if the school's colors are navy and gold, you can wear a gold collared or polo-style shirt, khaki pants and navy canvas shoes.

References

• StyleHive: How To Dress For A Graduation Party
• MyExpression: The do's and don'ts in the graduation party