Graduation is just around the corner, and what's more daunting than standing on stage in front of academics, leaders, and hundreds upon hundreds of family members, all with their eyes on you? Deciding what to wear!

When I attended my graduation last year, I found myself immensely stressed out as to what to wear. Being the first person in my family to graduate with a degree, I had absolutely no idea what was appropriate. Long dress? Short dress? Skirt? Pants? Colour? Monochrome? All of the above?! So, I decided to make this post for those of you who are feeling this same stress.

For a point of reference, the following picture is what I wore to my graduation. It was a watercolour, fitted dress that had a really cool cross-over hem in the front. I wanted something that was young, because - well, I am young, but I wanted something that was put-together and mature... all without being too boring. I think I succeeded, and I was very happy with my decision.

Remember - you'll be photographed this day, and it's a moment you'll cherish and look back on in the future. Be 100% happy with your choice!

All of these outfits are from Showpo, and come with FREE express delivery, which means you'll have your clothes the next day. Perfect for last minute choices! Click here: Showpo.com

(and enter the code 'KATRINA' for 10% off - you're welcome!)

Simply White

Basic Blacks

 

Pretty in Patterns

 

Sultry Skirts

These are just a few of my recommendations. Remember - go with something you are comfortable with. Here are some classic DO's and DON'T's...

DO'S:

• Pick something that is YOUR style! Make a statement about who you are as a person.
• Feel comfortable and confident. There's no use in wearing a short dress if you hate your legs, or a style or cut that makes you feel uncomfortable. You should be able to walk around feeling great about how you look.
• Loosen the purse strings - be prepared to invest in this outfit. You don't want to buy something that's cheap in quality, such as being see-through, loose, crooked or uncomfortable. Around $50 is a good target, but it's all dependant on your budget.
• Wear your outfit before the day - as soon as you've bought your outfit, wear it around the house. This may seem like silly advice, but you'll thank me. Wear your shoes too! Why? This is where you'll be able to tell if there are any issues. Walk around, sit down, and climb some stairs if possible - these are all the things you'll be doing on the day. If the waist is too tight, or your shoes are killing you, do something about it now! Ceremonies can go for hours, so you don't want to be counting down the seconds to get out of your dress because it's suffocating you.
• Take some photos wearing it - things can look different to how you see them in a mirror. Perhaps the mirror isn't showing off the back cleavage your dress is giving you, or the crooked hem in the front.
• Enjoy your time! It's not all about what you wear - be proud of this massive achievement, and celebrate your success.

DON'T'S:

• Midriffs/Two pieces - showing your stomach is far too casual for this type of event. You don't want to be that girl that everyone remembers for the wrong reason.
• Plunging necklines - place your hand at the bottom of your collarbones. The top of your dress should not start below your hand. Keep those puppies covered, and show respect to the academics and family members who have come to see you.
• Strapless tops or dresses - I mean, you can if you want, but take my advice. The academic gown is super heavy, and heavy things tend to pull things down - if you catch my drift. You don't want to spend all ceremony pulling your top up, and adjusting yourself.
• Super high, unstable or slippery heels - odds are, there's a set of stairs that you'll need to walk on to receive your award. You want to be in shoes that are stable, and that are comfortable to walk in. I remember at least three girls almost falling off the stairs/stage because their heels weren't stable enough.
• Spend too much on a clutch or bag - you won't have much time to be holding it, so save your money here.
• Forget to smile when on stage!

CONGRATULATIONS!