Graduation only happens a handful of times in life. The photos from it will sit on your parents’ walls, on your LinkedIn profile, and maybe one day on your own mantel. What you wear shapes how those images feel. Confident. Timeless. Proud.
At Studio Cath, grads photography is all about capturing who you are right now. Your outfit should support that story, not distract from it. Here’s how to choose clothing that photographs beautifully and still feels like you.
What to wear under your cap and gown?
Your cap and gown usually dominate your graduation outfit for your photo session. But what do you wear under your cap and gown for the photos without these two?
School pride looks great on camera. A subtle nod to your university colors ties everything together without turning your session into a sports ad.
Think:
- A dress in one of your school’s main tones
- A tie or pocket square that complements your gown
- Heels, flats, or sneakers that echo the accent color
If you’re unsure about official shades, check your university’s branding page. For example, the University of Chicago color guidelines clearly outline their exact maroon and gray tones. Matching closely makes your photos look intentional and polished.
That said, school colors are optional. Neutrals like cream, navy, black, or soft pastels photograph beautifully against Chicago’s skyline and lakefront.
Choose the right fit
Graduation sessions aren’t stiff or overly posed. There’s walking, laughing, maybe a few spins with your gown flowing behind you. Clothing should move easily.
Flowy dresses catch the breeze and add motion to your portraits. Structured blazers bring clean lines and confidence. High-waisted trousers elongate your frame.
Choose the right fit! Tight fits can limit movement. If you have to constantly tug or adjust, it’ll show in your expression.
A simple test: sit, walk, and raise your arms in the outfit before the session. If it still feels comfortable, it’s a strong choice.
Dress for the Season in Chicago
Chicago weather has a personality of its own. Spring can be sunny and 70 degrees one minute, breezy and chilly the next. Fall brings crisp air and golden light.
Layering works well for grads photography here.
Consider:
- A light coat you can remove between shots
- A chic scarf for early spring sessions
- Neutral tights for cooler evenings
- Breathable fabrics in late summer
If you’re unsure what the weather might look like, the National Weather Service Chicago forecast is a reliable resource for checking trends a few days before your session.
Comfort leads to confidence. Confidence photographs beautifully.
Keep Patterns Simple
Patterns can be stunning. They can also compete with your face. Small, busy prints often look cluttered in photos, especially when paired with the detail of a graduation gown. Large logos or bold graphics pull attention away from you.
Solid colors almost always win. If you love patterns, choose subtle ones like:
- Soft florals
- Gentle stripes
- Minimal textures
Think of your outfit as the frame and your expression as the artwork. The frame shouldn’t outshine the subject.
Shoes Matter More Than You Think
Shoes rarely stay hidden. Walking shots, sitting poses on campus steps, or skyline views with full-length portraits will reveal them.
Pick shoes that:
- Match the overall tone of your outfit
- Feel comfortable for walking
- Work on grass, pavement, or stone
Block heels, stylish flats, loafers, or clean sneakers all photograph well. If heels are part of your look, consider bringing a backup pair for walking between locations.
Grads photography sessions often involve a bit of exploring. Chicago has texture. Brick paths, concrete sidewalks, grassy lawns. The right shoes keep you steady and relaxed.
Coordinate With Your Cap and Gown
Most gowns are dark. That means lighter outfits underneath create contrast and prevent everything from blending together. White, cream, soft blue, blush, and light gray all pop nicely against black or navy robes.
Steam your gown ahead of time. Wrinkles photograph clearly in bright outdoor light. If you need care instructions, many schools provide guidance similar to this overview from Herff Jones graduation regalia care tips.
Small details matter. Tassels should sit correctly. Caps should fit snugly but comfortably. Those finishing touches elevate your final images.
Hair and Makeup That Feels Like You
You don’t need a full glam transformation unless that’s your everyday style. The goal is polished, not unrecognizable.
For makeup:
- Slightly bolder than daily wear works well on camera
- Matte finishes reduce shine
- Defined brows and lashes help eyes stand out
For hair:
- Soft curls photograph beautifully in Chicago’s lake breeze
- Sleek ponytails look modern and clean
- Natural textures always feel authentic
If you’re working with a professional artist, share a few inspiration photos. Clear communication prevents surprises.
The American Academy of Dermatology has helpful skincare prep tips if you want your skin looking its best leading up to your session: AAD skincare basics.
Healthy, hydrated skin reflects light in the most flattering way.
Add Meaningful Details
Props can truly enhance yopur photos. These can be personal details or props that lift the festive spirits.
Consider bringing:
- A stole representing your cultural background
- Honor cords
- A bouquet
- A bottle of bubbles
- balloons, streamers, a disco ball
What to Avoid
Even though almost everything is possible and the best tip is to be yourself at your photo session, there are a few things you better avoid.
Here are a few quick tips that save a lot of regret later:
- Heavy self-tanner right before the session (you’ll look orange in the photos, no joke!)
- Brand-new shoes that haven’t been broken in
- Ill-fitting gowns or suits (too big or too small, it just doens’t work)
- Distracting tops under a dress, a dress that doens’t cover your bra strips, black tops under a white shirt or dress, no tops under a shirt (for boys and girls)
Keep jewelry simple and timeless. Delicate necklaces, small hoops, classic studs. Bold statement pieces can work, but balance them with a clean outfit.
If you’re unsure about options, laying everything out on your bed and snapping a quick phone photo helps visualize the full look.
Planning Your Look With Intention
The most powerful images come from feeling like yourself. Not a version you think you should be. Not a trend that doesn’t match your personality.
Think about how you want these photos to feel in ten years. Calm and elegant. Bold and celebratory. Playful and bright. Your wardrobe plays a quiet but important role in setting that tone.
At Studio Cath, grads photography sessions are designed to capture movement, light, and genuine expression across some of Chicago’s most beautiful locations. When your outfit supports that vision, everything falls into place.
The gown marks the achievement. Your clothing underneath tells the story of who achieved it.