I’ve been getting a lot of questions about what should I wear to graduation? It made me look back to what I wore. I had to laugh because I wore something very similar to both my high school graduation in LA and my college graduation in Boston. One was a top and a skirt and the other was a dress but they followed the same guidelines. So here are my 7 tips on what to wear when you’re graduating:

1. Keep it light. 
I wore white both times I graduated. Perhaps I’m biased because it’s my favorite color to wear during the summer but I feel like it screams, I’m graduating! If you’re not a fan of white, try a different light neutral or a soft pastel.

2. Stay comfortable. 
Even if you attended a smaller school, graduations are long. You don’t want to be shifting around your seat in a skin tight pencil skirt waiting for them to call your name! At my high school graduation, I did an A-line skirt. For college, I did a fit and flare dress. Both roomier shapes keep you comfy.

3. Moderate your lines. 
Since this is a family affair, make sure your neckline isn’t too low and your hemline isn’t too high. That’s why I love an illusion neckline. It gives the feel of a strapless dress but the sheer panel keeps it more conservative.

4. Mind your fabrics. 
When you’re sitting for so long, fabrics can start to wrinkle. So stay away from linen and silk. Instead look for cottons, jersey or eyelet.

5. Add a bold shoe.
You’ll be wearing a cap and gown the majority of the time. Which means people won’t even see what you have on underneath until you head to lunch. That’s why I like to make a statement with my shoes. In college, I slipped into a pair of purple and orange strappy sandals I still wear from time to time! Florals are also a fun way to add a pinch of personality.

6. Be classically jeweled.
When I graduated, my parents gave me a classic pearl necklace. It’s one of my favorite pieces of jewelry I own. And obviously I wore it to accept my diploma! If a strand of pearls is too traditional for you, mix it up with stacks of different bracelets and rings. You want a little sparkle when you step on stage.

7. Tread timelessly.
You’re going to have your graduation photos forever. So just like a wedding, you don’t want to wear anything that you’ll look back on in 10 years and think wow that was so 2015! While it’s ok to inject current trends like sheer paneling, florals and arm parties, your overall look should be something you know will still make you smile when your next milestone comes along.

Photos by Jodee Debes

Dress: French Connection
Earrings: Bauble Bar
Bracelets: Luca + Stella, Stella & Dot
Bag: Henri Bendel (similar)
Ring: Bauble Bar
Shoes: Kohl’s

Congrats if you’re graduating this year! I hope my tips help. And make sure to ask your fashion and beauty questions to see them answered in upcoming Ask Sydne columns!