Fashion

What To Wear To Graduation In Hot Weather

by Emily McClure

Choosing the perfect outfit to wear to a summertime graduation doesn't have to be struggle. No matter if you'll be sitting through an outdoor ceremony or watching from inside the school's stadium, there are plenty of outfits out there that can keep you cool, calm, and collected during this momentous event. As any college graduate can tell you, these ceremonies are never quick. Between long-winded alumni speeches and the never-ending graduate line, no one has time for suffering in an insufferable outfit. Be sure to reach for clothing options that are constructed out of lightweight, breathable materials that won't leave you feeling suffocated.

The cut of an outfit is also very important when choosing a summertime garment. Personally, I like to avoid dresses and jumpsuits that are clingy, if I know I'm going to be battling the summer heat. Tighter fabrics and cuts tend to trap in more heat and pose a higher risk for showing off sweat stains — not the biggest deal in the world, of course, but maybe not best for a day when 1,000,000 pictures will be taken of you. Keep yourself feeling you best during this special event by choosing an outfit that makes you feel both chic and comfortable. It's a big day, so don't let it be muddle by a poor outfit choice. Here are 11 dresses and jumpsuits that are perfect to wear to a graduation in hot weather.

1. Bohemian Maxi Dress

Dress, $106, asos.com

This lightweight chiffon gown is perfect way to survive the summer heat in style.

2. Butterfly Garden Midi Dress

Dress, $198, anthropologie.com

Feeling comfortable on your graduation day doesn't mean that you have to wear a shapeless sack. Show off your figure by wearing a waist-defining dress with a more open hemline.

3. Silk Wrap Maxi Dress

Dress, $178, madewell.com

Feel at ease all ceremony long by wearing a dress that can move with you.

4. Sleeveless Floral Jumpsuit

Jumpsuit, $59.99, hm.com

Not everyone wants to wear a dress on their big day. Swap out your favorite maxi for a culotte-style jumpsuit. The wide leg and structured neckline are perfect for keeping your cool in the hot weather.

5. Plunge Front Wrap Dress

Dress, $33, asos.com

Feel like the strong, educated goddess that you are by wearing a dress that's both comfortable and chic.

6. White Draped Midi Dress

Dress, $59, asos.com

Flowing dresses are an absolute must for balmy summer ceremonies.

7. Navy Print Maxi Dress

Dress, $74, lulus.com

Slaying is always easy when your dress is super breezy.

8. Yellow Shift Dress

Dress, $198, anthropologie.com

What's the next best thing to going naked to your graduation? Wearing this lightweight shift dress.

9. Summer Striped Dress

Dress, $99.99, modcloth.com

Shine bright like the summer sun without trapping in the heat.

10. Fit & Flare Lace Dress

Dress, $188, anthropologie.com

Shorter cut dresses are exactly what you need to survive a long-winded Valedictorian speech.

11. Navy Shift Dress

Dress, $49.90, zara.com

Easy, breezy, beautiful you.

Your graduation day is too special to be bogged down by an uncomfortable outfit. Beat the heat by choosing lightweight fabrics and looser fits for a more enjoyable ceremony.

Images: Courtesy Brands