Twinklehooves writes:
“LasFashionistas, I need help! I will be graduating from high school this May. My class decided against caps and gowns, which is good in that I won't be trotting around in a royal blue pleated sack, but I cannot think of a suitable outfit! A suit would be too stiff and formal, and a skirt and t-shirt or button-up too casual. Also, this is a pretty conservative group, so it would be better to avoid sleeveless tops. I'm at my wit's end. Any ideas? Thanks!”

First off, big thumbs up to your class for going against tradition! Fun! (I keep holding on to my black college graduation gown just in case one of my future children wants to be a judge for Halloween…who am I kidding? What kid would want to be a judge? I should throw that thing away…)

Anyway, back to you, Twinklehooves. Graduation is a big deal. You will look back on this day with fondness (hopefully) for the rest of your life, and you will have your photo taken multiple times in this outfit.

What you need, my friend, is a dress. The dress you wear will depend on what suits your personality and body type as well as what fits your budget and the occasion, but here are a few ideas to point you in the right direction.

Since you don’t want anything sleeveless, I would recommend something with a short sleeve or a sleeveless dress with a light cardigan. Both options will satisfy the conservative folks while keeping you cool (graduations are notoriously warm; oftentimes, we’re talking about hundreds of people crammed into a small space in the middle of June, along with lots of hugging and crying). Much of what you will find in stores right now will be sleeveless, but you may be able to find some cap sleeved dresses as well. A dress that reaches the knee or just above it will also ensure no one gets flashed or needlessly provoked on your special day.

The color you choose is important to keep in mind: darker colors (like deep red, navy and black) are more mature and elegant while lighter shades (teal, white and pink) are more fun and carefree. Choose the color and design of the dress to reflect your mood and personality.

A springy cotton dress may work well in a warm climate, but a jersey knit will fancy your look up a little. This cap-sleeved pink dress is simple, but with elegant details. You could dress it up or down based on the jewelry and shoes you wear and the way you do your hair.

If the ceremony is a little less formal or during the daytime, you could go in a pretty dress like this with a matching cardigan.

On the other hand, if you want to go super elegant and mature, try a darker dress like this one:

Let us know what you end up wearing, and have fun shopping! (BTW, these dresses are all available at www.bluefly.com.)