Question from Vanessa: What should a Fashionista wear to graduation?
My Advice: Graduation is an important day in every Fashionista's/Fashionisto's life. Its the end of a four year journey of hard work, lifetime friendships, and, of course, finding your fashion voice. An important day like graduation requires an outfit worthy of such an occasion. Before you go crazy buying the most over-the-top this season must have dress, there are some important factors to keep in mind.
First of all, there is the graduation cap and gown. When choosing an outfit, make sure you pick a color that pops against the color of your gown. Also remember, that, unfortunately, your gorgeous dress will be covered during the ceremony. Wearing an overly full skirt could look awkward and puffy constrained underneath the gown. The second big factor to take into consideration is that graduation is one of the moments that will live on forever in pictures. Today might not be the day to try an far out new look that you may regret when looking at your parent's mantel in five years.
That being said, how does one still dress to impress and stand out in a sea of same colored gowns? Never forget that simple doesn't always mean boring. Try finding a dress in a classic silhouette in a seasonal color or special detail, such as this Jackie O-inspired dress or this strapless number or a wrap dress (obviously Diane von Furstenberg). A shorter dress is preferred to a long maxi because a crowded auditorium or outside ceremony can get very hot. Sweat stains are never in style.
Another great way to spice up your graduation gear is accessories. For my own graduation, I wore a series of oversized mixed pearls over my gown. Even from far up in the stadium, my parents could easily spot me with my eye-catching accessory. I love the idea of stacking metallic bangles that will surely catch the eye of the dean when accepting your diploma. While the mortarboard puts a damper on wearing a jeweled headband or other flashy hair accessory, your hair can still make a statement. Try styling your hair in big loose waives or even a fishtail braid that was seen all over the runway this spring.
No matter what you wear, this day is all about you. Celebrate your accomplishments as your embark on the next chapter of life. Congratulations Class of 2011- you made it!