Graduations are moments to celebrate your immense achievements. After years of hard work, it all comes down to this special day, so why not go all out with a little sparkle and shine? Whatever your personal jewellery style, it’s important to consider whether your choice of accessories will get in the way of your cap and gown.
So, take a look at Estella Bartlett’s graduation jewellery styling guide for our tips on styling elegant looks that scream success.
What to Wear to a Graduation Ceremony
Your graduation outfit is one that you’ll remember forever; it’s undeniably sentimental! Graduation outfits call for both sophistication and personality, so you’ll want to piece together a look that represents you – one that you’ll look back on fondly every time the graduation photos come out. Keep reading for inspiration on graduation outfit accessories from Estella Bartlett.
Earring Essentials: The Best Earrings for a Graduation Cap and Gown
If you’re wondering what earrings won’t get caught in your graduation tassel, statement stud earrings are always a good option. Not only are they timelessly chic, but they’re also practical when styling alongside your cap and gown.
If you’re drawn to drama, consider small pearl earrings, gleaming with iridescence, in a studded style. A daintier hoop earring is another stylish classic that won’t interfere with your cap’s tassel but is just as impactful as the drop earring that you may typically go for.
If you’re a maximalist with an affinity for colour and vibrance, you can’t go wrong with a gemstone earring. You could even find a colour that matches your gown or opt for one that connotes success, good fortune, and a promising future.
Necklaces: How to Layer Necklaces with a Graduation Gown
Like earrings, necklaces can also be tricky to style around your cap and gown. We recommend opting for shorter necklaces that sit somewhat tighter around the neck and avoiding the gown's V-neckline entirely. Style a simple chain necklace or layer it with one of our dainty pendant necklaces to subtly elevate your look and ensure that both your personality and taste are shown off in your outfit. Whether you’re more drawn to gold necklaces or silver necklaces, Estella Bartlett offers styles to complement your current jewellery box go-tos.
What to Wear to a Graduation Ceremony as a Guest
Graduation ceremonies are an opportunity to get dressed up. Typically smart-casual or semi-formal, graduations are a chance for you to style elegant looks and show up for your loved one looking your best. Whether you’re wearing a dress, a blazer and jeans, or smart trousers and a shirt, there are endless jewellery combinations you could style for a graduation.
Unlike the graduate, you don’t have to worry about your jewellery getting in the way of your cap and gown, so if you’re a maximalist, go all out. Wear earring stacks or dramatic drop styles that catch the light. If you’re wearing a dress with a lower neck, find a pearl necklace that complements its cut, or if you’re wearing a blouse with a high neck, let your bracelets, bangles, and rings do the talking.
What Graduation Outfit Accessories to Wear in 2026
If you’re keen to style trending jewellery looks, there are a number of approaches you can take for your graduation.
For elevated sophistication with a modern twist, consider wearing pearl jewellery. With an iridescent shimmer, pearl jewellery introduces new dimensions of colour to your look, complementing any palette. If you’re all about colour and positive vibes, however, gemstone jewellery is trending for 2026. Take a look at our selection of gemstone necklaces for styles that capture your essence – just remember our tips for your gown’s neckline.
Shop Estella Bartlett’s Graduation Jewellery Styling Guide
Now that you’ve got a better idea of what to wear to graduation, shop Estella Bartlett’s graduation outfit accessories. Whether you’re looking for necklaces, bracelets, earrings, or rings, shop our selection today.
Why not also consider shopping for graduation gifts for your friends and loved ones to show them just how proud you are? Whether you’re looking for gifts under £50 or gifts under £20, take a look at Estella Bartlett’s gift sets today.
