Navy blue graduation dresses for a polished ceremony day

Under the robe and in every family photo

The robe covers most of you. What people see is the neckline, the sleeves at your wrists and whatever hangs below the hem. So start at the top.

A turtleneck in navy rib knit looks neat under a zipped robe, and there’s nothing to fuss with at the neck. Wear a bracelet or a watch instead of a necklace. Prefer a bit of skin? The velvet midi with a V-neck shows your collarbones and takes a thin chain with a small pendant, while the boat-neck velvet midi lies flat along the collarbones and looks lovely in close-up shots with your diploma.

For the stage steps, low heels. You’re walking up in front of everyone and shaking a hand at the top. That’s no time to wobble. In December, add sheer black tights and ankle boots, and you won’t freeze crossing the parking lot afterward while everybody hunts for the car and argues about where to eat.

Mom’s graduation outfit, and Monday at the office

Watching your son or daughter graduate counts too. A midi navy blue graduation dress in velvet with long sleeves works just as well for the parent in row five, with pumps and a light clutch. Navy sits nicely next to gray, white and camel, which makes the rest of the outfit simple.

After the big day, the rib knit turtleneck goes straight to work with a gray blazer and loafers. The boat-neck velvet does the same trick in winter. Blazer on for meetings, blazer off for dinner. You’ll find more of these in our everyday navy styles.

Frequently asked questions

Won’t velvet be hot under a cap and gown?

Outside in early summer, probably. For a winter date or a chilly hall it’s right. Our polka dot wrap is satin with short sleeves and a knee-length hem for the warm days.

Does a navy blue graduation dress look gloomy next to a black robe?

Not really. It’s softer than black and keeps some color in the pictures. Silver earrings help.

What size should I get?

We sew each style in XS through XL, and an S is about a US 4. In fitted rib knit, check how it sits when you’re seated, since you’ll spend most of the ceremony in a chair.

Where can I see lighter blues?

On our page of brighter blues for graduation, or back on the main graduation page with every color.