As one looks across the Glenbard South gymnasium, there is a sea of blue and red caps and gowns filling the seats. Although this is what everyone thinks of when they think of graduation attire, almost every girl is much more concerned with what is under her gown. Here are a few tips for girls to consider when picking out a graduation outfit.

While graduates will be wearing their gowns for most of the evening, everyone will still be dressing to impress. Remember that a monumental number of pictures will be taken on this night. One will also want to consider what she is doing for the rest of the evening while picking an outfit as there might not be time to change clothes before going out with family or friends afterward the ceremony. If one would like to keep her phone or anything else with her during the ceremony, one might consider trying to find a dress with pockets.

While picking an outfit, one should keep in mind how it will lay under her gown. One should avoid dresses with large skirts or a lot of layers. An outfit that is more fitted or that will flatten easily will look the best under one’s gown. A dress without layers will also be less hot. One should take into account that the gymnasium will be very full. One should keep her outfit light and free of layers so she does not get too hot while sitting in the cramped gym. While looking fantastic is always the goal, one should pick something she will be comfortable in. There is nothing worse than sitting around for hours and posing for pictures in an uncomfortable outfit.

One should also prioritize comfort when picking shoes. One should be sure to choose shoes one can easily walk in to avoid the universal fear of tripping on stage while reaching for one’s diploma. While functionality is important, shoes are also a good place to make a statement. Shoes will be the only thing showing from under the gown, making it important for one to pick a pair she wants to show off.

One more thing to think about while planning one’s graduation day look is what to do with one’s hair. When choosing a hairstyle, pick something that will still look good during, and after wearing a graduation cap. For example, straight hair might look better than curls that have been mashed by a cap.

Whatever one wears under one’s gown, one should make sure it is an outfit that she feels expresses her style, and she will be proud to show off after the ceremony when the red and blue gowns are unzipped for photos.