How to Wear: The Graduation Dress, Three Ways
The time for consecutive friends and family events is upon us–weddings, bridal and baby showers, and (most popular in May)…graduations! From kindergarten to high school, college, and graduate school, we’ve all got a child, nephew or niece, or other loved one moving from one season of life to the next, and we are all in to honor their milestone in a big way.
Although you may not have a free weekend in sight, we can help you bear the load of at least one stressor: what to wear and how to wear it, so that you feel 100% appropriate, both comfort- and style-wise, as you move from top to bottom of the day’s itinerary. Picking up a cake or balloons, setting up for a celebratory dinner, or delivering a freshly pressed gown and cap…we know you want the ability to fully focus on your family and friends during such a busy occasion, and worrying about how you look should not be a factor.
So many graduation ceremonies are held outside, with a few exceptions, so we’ve taken everything into account while styling the Asymmetrical Hem Slipdress in Black/White Stripe by Tracy Reese three ways. It is a case in point to how versatile stripes can be, and we love, love, love the asymmetrical silhouette. And don’t be afraid to Kate Middleton this business by wearing the same dress to multiple events this spring. No one will notice when you vary your look with our styling tips, and we promise not to tell!
1. FORMAL/INDOOR FOLLOWED BY DINNER
Add a pop of color to this black-and-white number with a lightweight luxury Cashmere Cardigan in vintage rose by J. Crew, because you’ll probably need the extra layer when the A/C kicks in! A sexy, strappy heel like these Ansley Heels in black by Klub Nico is just the thing to elevate a slip dress, and a statement earring or clutch (Black Parallel Hoops by Natalie Joy, Black Raffia Mini Bag by Zara–yay for cross body straps!) is the perfect touch of fun and funky to take you from the auditorium to the dinner reservation.
2. FORMAL/OUTDOOR FOLLOWED BY BRUNCH
For an outdoor event with a formal spin, we’ve paired the graduation dress with a closed toe kitten heel, such as the Maleah Pointy Toe Mule in Black by Sole Society, to protect your feet from grass and dirt. And speaking of protection, a classic black wide-brim hat, such as the Bella Squishee® Sun Hat in Black by Eric Javits, is a must for several hours in the sun, from the university lawn to brunch on a patio. These layered Goddess Collars by Seraphine Design mirror the metallic flair of the Frame Clutch in Crinkled Gold Leather by J. Crew and highlight the elegant v-neckline of the dress.
3. CASUAL/OUTDOOR FOLLOWED BY BACKYARD SOIRÉE
We’ve got all the heart eyes for the basket-style bags popular right now, especially the round Petite Alice in Cream Woven by Clare V. It’s ideal for a casual backyard shindig, and the cross body strap allows for all-day, hands-free recreation. A flat sandal is great for backyard terrain, and this Leather Catalina Loafer in Nude by Free People is a nice dressy/casual wardrobe staple for events just like this. Keep it Jackie O classy with these Zoey Grey Fade Sunglasses by DIFF Eyewear, and a light layer, such as the 2-Tone Hart summer cape by Donni Charm, which can also tie cropped at the waist, as you party into the chilly evening.
