ATTIRE FOR YOUNG MEN & WOMAN

GREETING CLASS OF 2015 GRADUATIONS OF WESTSIDE HIGH SCHOOL. While graduating college is exciting and a relief in some ways; it can also be a scary time. Sure, you won’t miss the stress of exams, papers, and their associated all-nighters, but leaving the home and friends you've grown to love over the past 4 is certainly bittersweet. Commencement is the main event of the month, and you’ll want to make sure you look AND feel your best during this exciting time. Please review several do's and don’ts.

Dress to impress. You’ll be taking a ton — and I mean dozens and dozens — of photos. Today is not the day to sleep in and forget to shower. Pick out something conservative but still sassy to wear. You’ll want to look like the mature adult you’re about to become, but still look great and age-appropriate. Take the extra time to straighten or curl your hair, throw on a little concealer, and put your best face forward. Trust me — you’ll be thankful you did once those photos hit Facebook (or, are framed and placed over the fireplace at your parents’ house!).

LADIES: please wear and consider Professional dress (any color), must be knee length OR Professional dress pants (black) Black (no higher than 4 inches) Stud earrings (pearls or diamonds) and accessories (optional)

GENTLEMEN: please wear and consider Professional dress slacks (black) with black White collar Black dress shoes and dress Tie/ Watch (optional)

Plan what to wear under your Some people assume that what they wear on graduation doesn't matter because it will be covered up by a bulky robe. I completely disagree — wearing something great underneath your robe is important for several reasons:  First of all, you might not have time to change between the ceremony and dinner with your extended family, your best friend’s graduation rager, or your last night on the town with your best friends. You’ll want to have something on that’s cute and stylish so you can leave college with a bang.  Secondly, I have one tip for you all that I wish someone had told me a year ago when I graduated – wear a dress with pockets! Carrying a purse –even a cross-body bag — will look really strange while marching down the procession with 500+ of your classmates. Leave your wallet and such in your car (or with your parents if possible) and only keep your keys, phone, and a camera with you.  Also, it’s important to wear something somewhat sleek. A graduation robe will add enough bulk on its own, so a really full will look strange under it. If a skin-tight bandage dress just isn't your thing, look for relaxed-cute items that will be comfortable but not add any extra volume.  Lastly, check the weather. Nothing will cramp your style quite like freezing (or burning up) while you’re trying to listen to a graduation speech.

Consider . The only part of your outfit that people will be able to see is your shoes, so wear a cute, somewhat dressy pair, and be sure to paint your toenails, too! Sexy, sky-high stilettos might be a little inappropriate, but the occasion calls for something fancier than a pair of . I would recommend a pair of wedges or 2-3 inch heels — this way, you’ll look great but still be able to walk the long distance they’ll probably have you march. Be sure to break in your shoes and practice walking in them before the date arrives – the last thing you’d want to do is fall down or be uncomfortable during Commencement!

Have some fun! Cease each moment, a day of celebration as on chapter closes and another will open.