How To Know What To Wear Underneath Your Graduation Gown 

You’ve got pomp, circumstance, and a gown that breathes less than asbestos-lined plastic wrap. Stay comfortable under your drapery with the nicest outfit no one will ever see.

Step 1: Be seasonal

Unless you’re graduating from winter school in Moscow, opt for something airy. Polyester gowns can make a make a sunny day feel like an inferno, so a light fabric like cotton is your best bet.

Step 2: Be wary of gown color

If you’ve got a light-colored gown, you’ll want to steer clear of a bright t-shirt emblazoned with the logo of your favorite band — it could show through. If your gown’s dark or black, all bets are off.

Step 3: Class it up

Unless your ceremony is super formal or casual, guys should wear a suit, or a collared shirt and tie with slacks. A nice dress or cute outfit will work for girls. Don’t wear stockings. You want natural fibers that breathe.

Step 4: Avoid nudity

If you’re really hell-bent on wearing your bathing or birthday suit, remember you’re going to be cloaked in an itchy, hot, rented, synthetic gown for a while… and that you’re just asking to get kicked out.

Step 5: Focus on footwear

For all that preparation, the only part of you people will really see are your feet. Wear some nice, recently shined shoes. Ladies, if you’re going with an open toe, spring for the pedicure — and get a manicure while you’re at it, so your nails look good when you reach for that diploma.

Step 6: Follow the dress code

If your school is strict, they may boot you from the ceremony if you’re not following the dress code. Respect the rules, and if you’ve just got to wear a costume, try not to get caught.