You shall go to the ball: an expert guide to graduation ball dressing

After you wrap up your final uni exams (and take a minute to catch your breath), it's time to get excited about the summer ahead. And if the recent rise in online searches for ‘graduation ball dressing’ is anything to go by, this event is a highlight in many calendars.

So as the date of the big do comes closer, we asked experts to share their tips on nailing your university ball look. To help you find an outfit that suits your shape, style and sustainable creds, we asked these stylists for their advice.

Suzanne Bernie (@suzeberniestylist) is a Personal Stylist based in London. With a specialism in LGBTQ+ looks, she believes what you wear should reflect your happiest self.

Emily Giffard-Taylor (@beesandtaylor) set up her own business as a Fashion Stylist in 2013. Working globally, she is passionate about helping finding well-cut, quality garments.

Ellis Ranson (@styledellisranson) is a Fashion Stylist with more than 10 years of experience and has dressed some of the biggest UK celebrities including Dani Dyer and Jamie Laing.

Patrick Kenger (@pivotimageconsulting) is Pivot Image’s Founder and Personal Stylist. He’s helped a range of people (from C-suite execs to Netflix stars) develop their personal and professional image.

What is your top occasionwear prediction for this season?

If you’ve always wanted an out-there occasion outfit, this year is the right time to make your big fashion statement. As Emily explains, impactful looks are very much in: “This season we're seeing a lot of floral prints, metallics, cutouts and pops of colour.”

“Look for vibrant colour, statement sleeves, dramatic bows or a feather trim to make sure you stand out in a crowd. For those who prefer something more classic, it's all in the accessories; add some extra glamour with an oversized earring, an embellished clutch or a sparkly heel,” she explains.

Ellis explains that big looks can also be flattering. She notes, “New romance is a huge trend for 2024 and this fits perfectly with occasion wear, drop waists are the biggest hype for this season.”

“We first saw this in casual wear, but it has slowly made its way to everyone's wardrobe for all occasions. Drop waists make you look taller and are flattering on most people. It feels elegant and sophisticated with a pretty feel.”

Key takeaways

• Bold occasionwear is popular this season
• Vibrant colours, extra trims and glam accessories are in
• For a flattering, on-trend outfit, opt for new romance styles

What are your top ‘style rules’ for occasion wear dressing?

For almost all our stylists, the number one rule is to choose an outfit that suits your shape and style. Suzanne says, “The most important thing to remember when dressing for all occasions is to dress for your body shape, skin tone and your budget. Whether you want to make a statement or are a little more reserved you can still do it in a stylish way.”

Complexion-flattering colours and a fit tailored to your figure are a good start, but Ellis says that taking extra care with your accessories and underwear is just as important.

She comments, “Your hair and makeup need to match, as well as your jewellery. Wear the correct size underwear, as anything too tight or loose will show through and create an ill-fitting final look.”

Patrick agrees, “Fit is going to be the most important thing to watch out for. If a suit doesn’t fit right, it’s noticeable to everyone. Although some colours will complement your skin tone than others, most people choose shades based on personal taste.”

Top tips

• Choose colours and fits that flatter you
• Think about the whole ‘look’

Do you have tips for gender-neutral occasion wear dressing?

If suits are more your vibe, then you’re in luck. From straight legs and muted colours to bold flares and giant lapels, there’s a tailored style that matches your personality. “Prom rules are becoming more flexible,” Emily comments.

“Whilst it's always worth checking the guidelines and if in doubt, getting approval, the dress code is more inclusive than ever. Anything from suits, separates and jumpsuits are nowadays synonymous with formal dressing - the question is, with so many options available, what to choose?”

Suzanne is also enthusiastic about the flexibility of this look. “There’s nothing nicer than a cool co-ord to create a stylish well-thought-out way to show your party self,” she comments.

“This can be a fabulous printed or textured trouser suit with either a wide or straight leg cut. Or, if you're feeling a little more low-key, a neutral or muted trouser suit. A shirt or smart T-shirt underneath the same colour palette as the suit adds coolness and sophistication.”

Top tips

• Express your style with a versatile suit
• Co-ord outfits are a great party option

Which style is the most universally flattering?

When it comes to finding a flattering outfit, our stylists are in agreement that there’s no one-size-fits-all rule. “I dislike when someone says ‘everyone looks good in X’ as it’s impossible,” says Patrick. “However, there will be certain suits that look best on you, so try out a few to get a good idea of what works well for your body.”

“My advice is, wear what suits you and don't get caught up in what those around you are wearing,” Emily insists. “There is no one-style-fits-all rule, so buy what you like, what suits you and what makes you feel good.”

Suzanne also says choosing your own version of a well-known style is a great way to find a flattering outfit. She comments, “For the LGBTQ+ community, a trouser suit does the job for all occasions and never goes out of fashion.

“All you need to do is to choose one that is the colour of the season. If you want to keep it understated, go with no jewellery or add accessories to elevate the look.”

Top tips

• Always wear a style that suits you
• Trouser suits never go out of fashion

Are there particular styles you’d recommend for plus-size, tall and petite?

Emily’s top tip is to: “Focus on the area that you love most and play up your assets.” Suzanne also recommends shopping around to find the best fit. “The most important thing to remember is to select shops and stores that cater to your shape,” she says.

“So if you’re plus-size, tall or petite, select the brands that will fit and flatter your individual body shape. Otherwise, you’ll get very frustrated and want to give up before you’ve even started.”

Maxi outfits are a stylists’ favourite for petite and tall sizes, though getting the proportion right is key. Ellis says petite-sized partygoers should: “Opt for fitting styles so you don't get too lost in the fabric.”

“For taller people, a maxi with a leg split will flatter your silhouette and accentuate your long legs - don't be afraid to rock those heels or a sneaky flat as you prefer,” Emily explains.

For plus-sized shapes, choose styles that sculpt and emphasise your best features. Ellis comments, “I always love a wrap dress because it pulls you in at all the right places, but always think about the fabrics.”

Top tips

• Shop in stores with a range of fit options
• Dress to emphasise your favourite features
• Maxi and wrap dresses are good starting styles

Is hiring or buying outfits more environmentally friendly?

Hiring is a great option if you’re testing out new looks or want that ‘new’ feeling without leaving an impact, say our stylists. But they also agree that the best and most sustainable outfits are ones that can be reworked and re-worn again and again.

As Suzanne explains, “I always feel that if you love your party outfit, you’ll want to own it. If it's a trouser suit you can always split it up and make lots of different outfits. Jeans with a jacket and trousers with a t-shirt, sweatshirt or sweater for multiple occasions.”

“Consider both the quality and sustainability. Cheap is expensive in the long run, so if you can spend a little more on quality, it's worth it for the wash and wear value!”

Top tips

• Hire outfits to test out new looks
• Buy styles that can be reworked for different occasions
• Always choose quality clothes to get the best value

Embrace your style this graduation season

Whatever your look, personality or budget, following the stylist tips above and using UNiDAYS clothing discounts will help you find the ultimate graduation ball outfit. Plus, with our student offers on the biggest beauty brands, you can get the hair care and makeup essentials you need to strut your way into summer.