What to wear to a graduation
For a graduation as a guest, men should wear smart casual: a collared shirt with chinos or dress trousers and leather shoes, plus a blazer to look sharp in photos. Graduates often wear a light suit or a shirt and trousers under the gown.
The outfit
Example photo: Khutso Mokoena / PexelsNavy blazer, no tie
- JacketNavy blazer
- TrousersCream chinos
- ShirtWhite or light blue shirt, top button open
- NeckwearNone
- ShoesBrown leather loafers or derbies
- ExtrasBrown belt matched to shoes
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Tips
- Ceremonies are often outdoors or in hot arenas. Wear breathable fabrics, and bring sunglasses if you’ll be outside.
- A blazer looks great in photos and comes off easily if it’s hot.
- Expect lots of walking and standing, so wear comfortable leather shoes or loafers.
- If there’s a dinner afterward at a nice restaurant, the blazer covers that too.
If the invite names a dress code
Smart casual
Smart casual for men means a jacket without a tie: a blazer or sport coat, a collared shirt or fine knit, chinos or wool trousers, and leather shoes or clean minimal sneakers.
Business casual
Business casual for men means dress trousers or chinos, a collared button-up shirt and leather shoes. A blazer is optional, and a tie usually isn’t needed.
Semi-formal
Semi-formal for men means a suit, or a sport coat with dress trousers, plus a collared dress shirt and leather shoes. The tie is optional, and a tuxedo is too much.
Casual
For a casual event, men can skip the jacket and tie but should still look put together: a pressed button-up or polo, chinos or dark jeans, and clean shoes.
Common questions
What should a graduate wear under the gown?
A collared shirt and trousers or a light suit. Gowns are hot, so lighter fabrics help. Wear comfortable dark dress shoes.
Can I wear jeans to a graduation?
Dark, clean jeans with a collared shirt can work for guests at casual ceremonies. Chinos are a safer choice for photos.
Do I need a tie for a graduation?
Not usually. A tie is a nice touch for graduates and close family at formal university ceremonies.
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