[header] How to put on academic robes for a graduation ceremony [title] Wear formal dress under your gown. [step] Your graduation is considered a formal event, so you are expected to wear formal dress under your gown. Before you put on your gown, check that your outfit is appropriate for graduation. 
[substeps] For men, this could be pressed slacks or dress pants and a collared shirt or tie. For women, this could be a formal dress and heels, or pressed slacks, a blouse, and dress flats.