Emma Schaible/Fourth Estate

These outfits may turn some heads or do double-takes in the best way possible
BY NYLAH MITCHELL, COPY EDITOR 

It’s graduation season! After years of submitting assignment after assignment, the time to close a signifying chapter has finally arrived. Thousands of Mason students are posing for photos around campus and preparing to walk across the stage at EagleBank Arena. 

Around this time, graduates are planning multiple outfits for a mounting schedule of events. For some, it’s a painless process. But for those who want a different look each day, it can be overwhelming.

Graduation’s timeless and classic colors — white and black — can look polished but often come across as traditional. Graduation is the perfect time to go all out in color, style and more. It’s a time to celebrate accomplishments built over long hours at  desks and in classrooms watching presentations.  

Whether you’re looking to add some spunky accessories or just gather some ideas, here are six suggestions to animate your graduation look.  

Tights 

May weather skews warmer, but tights can still be a forgiving choice thanks to their thin mesh fabric. Pairing with the Mason green? Opt for a bright and vibrant-colored hosiery—think a bright yellow or a cerulean blue– for a standout look. Any shoes are great as long as they show off the tights. 

Scarves 

Picture this: you’re wearing a formal blouse with straight or wide-leg trousers, but something feels off. You want an accessory beyond jewelry—but under the cap and gown, there’s limited styling space.

Two silk printed scarves are wonderful accessories in a time like this. Tie each around the seams of the trousers to create a bloomer pant effect. Only one scarf? No problem, that works too. They don’t have to match—contrasting patterns are welcome.  What matters here is the personalization of the pants to pull off an alternative look. The outfit is funky yet stylish when paired with heels or loafers. 

Tunics 

Tunic outfits offer versatility. Whether you’re leaning towards a traditional look or more formal, tunics are perfect for any occasion. For students hoping to blend masculine and feminine fashion, tunics help pull off a purposefully androgynous look. For graduation, try a tailored tunic cinched at the waist with a maxi pencil skirt 

Trousers are a great alternative if a maxi skirt isn’t for you. For a twist, go for patterned or contrasting colors like green or purple. 

Brooches and pins 

Even if you’re wearing a classic suit and tie, you can add flair with the right accessories. The trick is to grab as many mini pins and brooches for the tie. 

Stick the pins and brooches all over the black tie, ensuring the pins stand out more, and play around with the layout. After suiting up, pucker the tie through the gown to show off the personalized touch. 

Ruffles  

The Bohemian aesthetic is in full swing. Ruffles and chiffon are the perfect fabrics and styles to add a unique touch to simple whites and structured silhouettes. Any color works because the pleating of the fabric does the talking. 

While chiffon ruffle dresses are suitable, shift the conversation by wearing ruffle pants; either in capri or full length, styled with a matching top or an asymmetrical high-neck blouse. Finish the look with a pair of heels or mules for a chic and classy touch. 

Monochromatic 

The simplest and most unconventional fashion statement is dressing in one color. The idea here isn’t black or white; go for a vibrant and off-putting hue like hot pink or cinnamon. 

That said, black or white can still work, especially when paired with Mason’s green and gold gown. Add texture with a busy fabric like Plissé, which creates a crinkled, striped look that adds dimension.

For more information on the 2025 commencement address and other graduation inquiries, visit the Graduation Spring 2025 site.