April 30, 2018 4 min read

Hey there, OTBT wanderers! May is finally here, which means graduation season is just around the corner! And with all this pomp and circumstance comes the opportunity to embark on a grand new adventure and the celebration of all you’ve accomplished on the road that led you there.

Whether you’re embarking on this grand new adventure yourself or cheering on a loved one from the stands, it’s always a good idea to plan out your commencement day style well in advance. Dressing for graduation day may seem tricky, but if you keep in a mind a few simple fashion tips, you can rock a look that’s both stylish AND practical.

Here’s five things you’ll want to consider wearing for your graduation day:

A Practical, Pre-Planned Hair Style

When it comes to commencement day, it can be tempting to pull out all the stops on your hair, going with a bombshell blowout, voluminous curls, or something else equally as stunning for the big day. Truth is, you may find it a lot easier (and WAY more manageable) to go with something a bit more simplified for your graduation day hairstyle. If your commencement day festivities take place outside, chances are wind, rain or the heat of the sun will be a factor you may want to take into consideration. These elements can easily turn a beautiful blowout into a tousled, disheveled mess, completely ruining the look you spent hours on perfecting. Keep this in mind when planning out your graduation day ‘do. If you’re getting your hair done, ask for a stylish updo or pretty braid instead of wearing your hair loose. If you’re doing your hair yourself, consider wearing (or taking along) headbands, clips, elastics or bobby pins to keep your hair back and under control. Most importantly, whatever hair style you end up going with, make sure to test it out with your cap and make sure it stays in place all throughout the day.

Long-Lasting Makeup

Graduation ceremonies are always LONG. That being said, when it comes to your makeup, you’re going to want a look that will last all day, with minimal touch-ups. A good, long-lasting foundation and concealer is a must for commencement day, as well as a nice primer, setting powder, or finishing spray, to set your look and keep it from melting away in the hot sun. Speaking of, it may be a good idea to use an SPF lotion to moisturize your face and ward off any sunburn prior to applying makeup. And oil-blotting pads are always a good idea! Lastly, don’t forget that waterproof mascara. Graduation is always an emotional time, so let those happy tears run down your face – not your makeup.

A Breezy & Comfortable Dress

There’s one thing to keep in mind when it comes to picking out your graduation day dress – it should be cute, but comfortable. There’s nothing worse than suffering through an uncomfortable dress all throughout the long commencement speeches and degree ceremonies. Stick with dresses that are lightweight and breezy enough to keep you cool under your graduation gown – especially if the weather man is calling for a mid-day heatwave! You may also want to stay away from strapless or off-shoulder pieces as well, so you’re not stuck continually trying to adjust your dress from underneath your graduation gown. (Take our advice, that’s not an easy thing to do!) So find a look that’s both cute and comfortable, and you’re well on your way to a practical yet chic commencement day look!

Shiny, Practical Jewelry

Jewelry can be such a great way to express your individuality when lining up with your fellow graduates in same caps and gowns. Add shine and sparkle with your favorite pieces, but make sure they’re appropriate for the day. Avoid heavy necklaces, earrings, and bracelets, which will weigh you down and make you feel uncomfortable. And stay away from earrings without a back, so they won’t slip out while you’re marching down the field. Aside from that, the choice is yours! Shine on like the star that you are.

Comfortable and Stylish Shoes

Last but certainly not least, the secret to the perfect graduation day outfit is a stylish yet comfortable pair of shoes. That’s where we come in! In order to look cute and stay comfy all throughout your commencement ceremony, you’re going to want to seek out shoes that are made for walking. Ditch the high heels and instead snag your favorite pair of OTBT platform wedges for all of the height with none of the pain. We highly recommend our top picks – the Bushnell, Sail or Bee Cave, in stylish and chic metallic shades that’ll pair perfectly with any graduation day outfit. And if these tall platform wedges are a bit too daunting for you, consider a lower wedge like the Meditate or flat sandals like the Stargaze. These new arrivals are sure to keep you on your feet all day! And with fun metallic colors and accents, they make the ultimate graduation day shoes.

So there you have it – five practical and fashionable style tips to keep you cute and comfy all throughout the big day! Is there anything we missed? Any OTBT styles you’d rock for graduation weekend? Let us know in the comments below!


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.