What to Wear for Senior Graduation Portraits

As the school year draws to a close, excitement builds among seniors regarding one of the biggest milestones in their lives: graduation. An important part of this special occasion is capturing senior portraits, which not only highlight this significant event but also allow graduates to showcase their individual styles. This raises the question among students: what should I wear for my pictures?! In this guide, we’ll explore outfit options, colors, and styles to ensure you look your best in your photos!

Dress Your Best: Outfit Choices

1. Classic Traditions Meet Personal Style

   
   

The traditional outfit for graduation is the cap and gown. However, the attire you wear underneath is equally important!

Masculine: Your graduation outfit is pretty straight forward: Choose fancy clothes! Or wear what you would (or did wear) to impress that girl of your dreams. Are you in slacks and a button down? Make sure they are ironed. These will be nice enough to show your family who really want a printed photo of you on their fridge and in their wallet to brag about.

Feminine: You can't go wrong with a dress or skirt! If you decide to wear your cap and gown in the photos, the important thing to do is make sure the dress length is same as or shorter than the length of your graduation gown. The attire you choose can take your photos in a formal direction, or in a fun, free, and celebratory direction!

Examples of types of dresses to wear under a gown would be a fit and flare mini or midi dress. Just try to avoid super poofy dresses as the gown is already pretty bulky.

2. Colors Matter

For a timeless look, I always like to suggest neutral colors such white, black, and/or minimal pops of light tones. This allows for a stark contrast to your sash and other school colors.

If you cant decide on what to wear, pure white is always a winner!

3. Avoid busy patterns

Try not to wear busy patterns or too many bright colors as to not distract from the ambiance of the photo!

4. Purposeful and Minimal Accessorizing

The right accessories can enhance your overall look in portraits. Consider adding neutral colored statement earrings, or a stylish belt. Note that if you decide to wear a necklace, the gown photos will cover it.

A classic tie or bowtie can elevate masculine ensembles. Aim for balance by selecting a few thoughtful pieces instead of overwhelming your outfit with too many accessories.

Examples of general things to bring to every graduation session:

• Cords, Sash, Cap, Stole, Gown, Nice shoes, Nice clothes

Extra fun items to bring along:

• Feel free to bring items to add your flair of school spirit, celebration, humor, relationship, etc. Examples could be a letter jacket, diploma scroll bound with ribbon, pom-poms, or something similar.

• Confetti can also be super fun as long as it is biodegradable!

• If you have a personally significant cultural background that you'd like to represent, feel free to bring a second outfit as well.

Final Touches

Once you settle on your outfit, focus on the final details to present yourself perfectly.

1. Preemptive Measures

   
   

Be sure to iron your clothes if needed to eliminate wrinkles, and conduct a final check for any stains or blemishes. This little preparation can make a significant difference in how your ensemble looks in photographs.

2. The Day Of

   
   

On graduation day, plan to arrive early. A relaxed morning will help you feel calm and ready for your big moment! This also ensures there is enough time to find parking and do any last minute touch-ups.

A Special Milestone

Your senior graduation portraits and the graduation ceremony itself represent a turning point in your life. Choosing the right outfit is about looking good and feeling confident while expressing who you are at this crucial time. Use these outfit suggestions, color ideas, and comfort tips to ensure you show up looking your best. Most importantly, enjoy the day! Celebrate your achievements, cherish these precious memories, and know that your photographs will be keepsakes for years to come. Best of luck and happy graduating!

-Ashley