What To Wear: To A Graduation Party

Oh, the joys of graduation time! Even if you aren’t a class of 2021 grad, I’m sure you’ve got your fair share of graduation parties lined up. On Monday I shared over fifty white dresses for all you graduates and, as promised, I’m back today with five outfit ideas for your next graduation party!

The typical “dress code” for these functions seems to vary from state to state so I’ve tried to include a wide variety of options. Whether you’re wanting to get dolled up or keep it casual, I’ve got you covered! Plus, I’ve included links to everything for you to shop my budget-friendly outfits. Enjoy!

Dressed For Success 

I’d definitely consider a dress and heels “dressed up” for a graduation party near me but based on the girls on my Tik Tok fyp, this seems like the norm in other states. Heck, I’m not complaining… I’ll take any excuse to dress up. This sage green dress is my new favorite SheIn piece. Between the smocked detailing and tie-straps you’ve got the most adorable bodice. However, the bubble skirt is my favorite part—such a unique cut that’s so flattering.

Although you could keep things casual with a pair of lace-up sandals, I prefer a little extra height. Therefore, I went with a pair of nude lace-up heels. These are the perfect height for a day of running around and are surprisingly rather comfortable. I popped on my everyday gold jewels and a pair of crochet statement earrings to pull the outfit together. If you’re the host of the graduation party this look is a super safe option.

Outfit Details— dress: SheIn, heels: SheIn, earrings: Walmart, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Smiling With School Spirit 

I love dresses because they are an outfit all in one. However, I know not everyone is comfortable in them—perhaps a romper will do. I find that they are just a step below and give you a little more mobility which is ideal for a day of grad party hopping. I wore a romper for my own graduation party and it was definitely the right choice. Looked adorable in photos and was just the right amount of fancy.

Navy, white, and gold are my college colors so this look is right up my alley. I love a little school spirit, especially if you’re hosting your own grad party. This navy and white strapless romper is the cutest. I just recently grabbed it from SheIn and scored tons of compliments when wearing it to the baseball field last week. I dressed it down with flip flops for that occasion but with yellow platform heels and matching earrings, you add just the right pop of color.

Outfit Details— romper: SheIn, shoes: SheIn, earrings: Walmart, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Feeling The Frills 

Perhaps jeans and a cute top are more your vibe! I’m a sucker for this puff sleeve crop top style—I’ve been seeing it all over retailers’ Summer 2021 collections and am obsessed. Because they are on the shorter side, I definitely recommend pairing this with high-waisted bottoms. A silk midi skirt would be adorable but I stuck with my tried and true cropped flare jeans.

This pair is from Express and is one of my favorites. They’re made of a stretch-plus fabric that’s incredibly comfortable and allows you to eat the day away without feeling the urge to unbutton your pants, lol. Linking them below because they are currently on sale. For shoes, I’m slipping into a short wedge from Franco Sarto. Their shoes are the best quality and this platform height is perfect for everyday wear. These have a velcro closure that is great if you have tiny ankles like me. I’ve been wearing these non-stop for dinners, parties, photoshoots, and more. I’m praying they release more colors in this style because they are just that good.

Outfit Details— top: SheIn, jeans: Express, shoes: Franco Sarto, earrings: Walmart, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Pops Of Pink

Want a jeans + cute top that’s even more laid back than the last? This is the look for you. I love white denim but it’s definitely a bit dressier than blue. These skinny jeans have been my go-to the last few weeks. I know Gen Z has deemed straight legs the new skinny, but I can’t get enough of these. They flatter the booty so nicely and hit me at the most slimming spot. Plus they are super highrise which means they pair effortlessly with all of my tiny crop tops.

Up top, I’m wearing a cute little white tank from SheIn. I love the ruched bust and the handkerchief cut along the front. For shoes, I’m slipping into a new pair of sandals These are such good dupes for the Gucci sandals that everyone’s raving about. They aren’t rubber but they are still a pretty close match. Sadly, these sold out within days but I will try to link a similar pair below for you to shop. Of course, I had to add a matching bag! This three-piece style is my absolute favorite.

Outfit Details— top: SheIn, jeans: Express, shoes: SheIn, purse: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Keeping The Kicks 

Around here, this is pretty typical grad party attire. Most people in our small town keep things simple with a ribbed tank and denim shorts. I have this seamless Forever 21 tank in a gazillion colors now and it’s one of my favorites. It’s a bit longer of a crop and can be worn without a bra which you know I love. Love them dressed up or with leggings for an athleisure moment.

These denim shorts are from Princess Polly. I have them in two colors now and they are always on repeat—I recommend sizing down for a snugger fit. For shoes, I’m sticking with my old faithful: platform Converse and a pair of frilly socks peaking out. This is the cutest touch to a simple outfit.

Outfit Details— top: Forever 21, shorts: Princess Polly, socks: Forever 21, shoes: Converse, purse: SheIn, earrings: SheIn, necklace: The Silver Heron, rings: Ana Luisa, bracelets: Ana Luisa

Do you have any graduation parties on your agenda? I know we’ve got a few in this household! Luckily, I’ll be showing up in style thanks to these cute new fits. Congratulations to the class of 2021—go cele, you deserve it grads!

With love, McKenz

Latest Post: Where To Buy A Graduation Dress
Related Post: What To Wear In Nashville Summer 2021
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