Graduation is a once-in-a-lifetime event, and while the cap and gown are non-negotiable, what you wear underneath matters just as much. Not only does it affect how you look in photos, but it also impacts your comfort, confidence, and overall experience on the big day. If you're wondering what to wear under your graduation gown, you're in the right place. Here's a complete style guide for 2025 graduates that covers everything from formality to footwear.

🎓 Why What You Wear Under Your Gown Matters

Graduation ceremonies can last for hours. You’ll be sitting, standing, walking across a stage, and taking dozens of photos. What you wear under your gown needs to be:

Comfortable enough to last several hours
Stylish enough for photos (especially when you take the gown off)
Appropriate for the weather and venue
Aligned with your school’s dress code (if any)

Many graduates underestimate how much their inner outfit can affect the day—don’t be one of them.

👗 What Women Should Wear Under a Graduation Gown

1. Dresses (Knee-Length or Midi)

A simple dress is a go-to choice. Opt for:

Sleeveless or short-sleeve options to stay cool
Lightweight fabrics like cotton, rayon, or linen
Solid colors or subtle prints that won’t show through the gown

Avoid bulky materials or dresses with large embellishments—they may create awkward bumps under the gown.

2. Blouse and Slacks or Skirt

If you prefer a more professional look:

A blouse tucked into a midi skirt or tailored pants works great
Stick to neutral or school colors
Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics (you’ll be sitting a lot)

3. Footwear

Comfort is key. You’ll walk, climb stairs, and stand for photos.

Low block heels, dressy flats, or wedges are great choices
Avoid stilettos or new shoes that might cause blisters

👔 What Men Should Wear Under a Graduation Gown

1. Dress Shirt and Slacks

This classic combo never fails. Opt for:

Light, breathable shirts (especially in warmer weather)
Neutral or school-themed colors
A tie or bowtie if desired (yes, it still looks good even if only the collar shows)

Pro Tip: Avoid undershirts with logos or text that might show through.

2. Suit or Blazer (Optional)

If you're aiming for a polished, professional look:

A lightweight blazer or full suit works well—especially for indoor, air-conditioned ceremonies
Stick to traditional colors like navy, gray, or black

3. Footwear

Dress shoes are the standard. Stick to:

Loafers, oxfords, or derbies
Dark brown or black leather options
Shoes that are broken in—this is not the day for experimenting

🌦️ Graduation Weather Considerations

Warm Weather:

Stick with breathable fabrics
Go sleeveless or short-sleeved under the gown
Don’t forget sunscreen if the ceremony is outdoors

Cold Weather:

Layer smartly: thermal base layers or thin sweaters
Closed-toe shoes and dress boots are acceptable
Consider a scarf or gloves if permitted by the school

🎓 Should You Match School Colors?

Yes, if possible. Choosing an outfit in your school colors is a subtle but meaningful way to show school pride. You can incorporate them in:

Ties or bowties
Accessories like scarves, necklaces, or belts
Shirt or dress color

Just make sure your outfit doesn’t clash with the color of your graduation gown.

📸 Picture-Perfect Tips

Iron or steam your clothes before the ceremony. Even if they're mostly hidden, wrinkled clothes can ruin the look in photos.
Test your outfit a few days before—sit, walk, and try on your gown over it.
Coordinate with friends or family if you’re taking group pictures. It makes everything look more cohesive.

✅ Do's and Don'ts Recap

Do’s	Don’ts
Choose breathable, fitted clothing	Wear hoodies or bulky sweaters
Stick to school-appropriate styles	Wear flip-flops or overly casual shoes
Test your outfit with the gown	Wear anything uncomfortable or tight
Accessorize tastefully	Over-accessorize with noisy jewelry

🛍️ Where to Shop for Graduation Outfits

If you're still searching for the perfect outfit to wear under your graduation gown, check out these go-to stores in the USA:

Target – Affordable and stylish graduation outfits
J.Crew Factory – Classic options for both men and women
Macy’s – Great for dress shoes and occasionwear
ASOS – Trendy styles for all body types
Amazon – For last-minute orders with fast shipping

Final Thoughts

Your graduation day is about celebrating your hard work and success, so make sure you feel great in what you wear. By choosing the right outfit under your gown, you’ll not only look your best in every photo—you’ll also be ready to take on whatever comes next with confidence.

Now that you know what to wear under your graduation gown, are you ready to create the perfect look? See more at: gradtshirts.com