The Art of Getting Dressed for Graduation Photos | A Washington DC Grad Style Guide
Photography by: Carol Solorzano - Washington DC Grad Photographer
I can’t even give you a number of how many grad sessions I’ve shot in DC, so I know a thing or two about preparing for them.
Jefferson Memorial Graduation Portrait
What to Wear for Graduation Photos
A practical guide. With opinions.
Graduation photos are part celebration, part “I survived,” and part future you saying thank you. Most of my grads bring their cap and gown and at least one outfit to change into. I encourage it. I also don’t charge for outfit changes because this is your session and we’re not rushing through it like a DMV appointment.
After booking with me, I’ll send you a guide to what to bring and prepare. But this post has so much information! It’s worth the read. It’s here to make getting dressed easier and to keep you from panic-buying something at midnight that you’ll never wear again.
SCOTUS grad photo
Jefferson Memorial grad photo
Start with the Cap and Gown
Yes, even if you think you won’t want it
Underneath, keep it simple. A clean neckline matters more than a complicated outfit since the gown does most of the talking. Dresses, tailored tops, jumpsuits, or button downs all work well. Avoid busy collars or chunky layers that bunch up around the neck. The goal is polished, not uncomfortable.
Outfit Two Is Where the Personality Shows
This is your chance to look like you. Not like a catalog. Not like everyone else in your class.
I always recommend contrast. If we’re shooting around the white pillars and stone architecture of DC, bold colors photograph beautifully. Jewel tones, deep reds, emeralds, cobalt, mustard, crisp black and white combos all stand out in the best way. Neutrals also work if they’re intentional. Think structure and texture, not flat beige from head to toe unless that’s very much your thing.
Color Rules I Actually Care About
I promise there aren’t many
Black, cream, camel, gray, navy are always safe and timeless.
Bold colors pop against DC architecture and look incredible on camera.
Avoid neons and tiny busy patterns. They don’t age well and they can distract from you.
If you’re unsure, bring options. We’ll decide together like adults.
graduation photo at Jefferson memorial steps at sunrise
Fit Over Trends
Comfort photographs better than regret
If you can’t sit, breathe, or walk comfortably, it will show. Clothes should skim your body, not fight it. Tailored looks photograph better than oversized or overly tight ones. If something needs steaming or lint rolling, do it before you arrive. Future you will appreciate the effort.
Shoes Matter More Than You Think
You will walk. A lot. DC is not gentle on shoes.
Bring heels if you want the look, but also bring a backup. Flats, boots, or loafers are completely fine and often look more modern anyway. If your shoes hurt before the session starts, they will definitely hurt by the end. If you plan on wearing heels, BRING AN EXTRA PAIR YOU CAN BE WARM AND COMFORTABLE IN.
Accessories
Intentional, not distracting
Keep it intentional. One or two pieces max. Earrings, a watch, a necklace you actually wear. Skip noisy bangles and anything that needs constant adjusting. If you brought it “just in case,” we’ll decide on the spot.
DC pillars graduation photo
Hair and Makeup
Polished you, not experimental you
This is not the day to try something brand new. Go polished, not experimental. If you normally wear your hair down, wear it down. If you’re a bun person, keep it clean and structured. Makeup should look like you on a really good day, not like you’re auditioning for reality TV.
Bring Options. I Mean It.
Indecision is welcome here
Bring two outfits. Or three. Bring different shoes. Bring a jacket. Bring lipstick for touch-ups. I’d rather you have too many choices than wish you brought something better.
That’s also why outfit changes are included. You don’t have to choose just one version of yourself.
Lincoln memorial graduation photos in Washington DC with reflection pool.
Final Thought
Pinterest is optional. Confidence is not.
Graduation photos are about where you are right now, not where Pinterest says you should be. Dress in a way that feels confident, comfortable, and like you. If you’re unsure, I’ll help you decide. That’s part of the job.
And yes, bold colors in front of DC pillars always win.
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