Dress code at graduation 5 July 2016 at 9:57PM in Special occasions & other celebrations 3 replies 2.8K views

ellay864

My son graduates next week. I'm still making my mind up which dress to wear. But today my son and his girlfriend asked if I was wearing hat or fascinator and I hadn't even given headgear a thought, just for some reason assumed hat free would be fine. I do actually like wearing hats but wondered if they are generally worn at graduation.
Has anybody been a guest at a graduation recently? Are hat or fascinator wearers in a majority? Or will I be overdressed, and be better off bare headed?

pinky_p

I think you would feel over dressed in a hat or fascinator. I have been to two graduation ceremonies and don't recall seeing anyone wearing either.

mtbbuxton

The dress code tends to be rather more relaxed these days, although it can depend on which establishment you're going to. There's usually a gallery of previous Graduation ceremonies on the University websites which would give you an idea of what the norm is.

M x

7roland8

Yes I went to two and no hats really - though first time I did have tiny fascinator in bag just in case.


I went with floaty skirt, blouse and smart cream jacket - I did have a fake flower in lapel. Felt fine like that - and some came decidedly underdressed. Its a special day so you don't want to be too casual - it shows respect for their special day if you have made an effort.


It is an occasion and nice to be smart to have photo taken with son - I cherish my two pics from our special days.


I expect you may have had your special day now so hope it went well.


ps - stick a flowery slide in your bag just in case - as some unis may be dressier than others - that way you are prepared!