Ah, the old cap and gown. If you're anything like we were back in those days, you spent all of high school, and who are we kidding, all of college too, counting down the days until you could put on that polyester robe and goofy mortarboard and strut your stuff straight to a diploma (and with it, freedom). Graduation is a huge deal, one of the most important things you'll ever achieve, and as such, it's an occasion that warrants a fly outfit. There are also SO. MANY. PHOTOS. taken on graduation day, that you want to make sure you won't have to hide your head in shame over something you wore. Here's the thing, though: you can't really see much underneath your gown, so aside from the lunch or dinner you have with your parents after it's all over, your dress doesn't actually make much of an impact. Your shoes, on the other hand, are everything. Whether you're into sneakers, heels, or flats, we found 15 pairs of kicks that will add just the right amount of pop to that gown.

Who doesn't love a classic wedge for a classic day.
Photo: Madewell/Marais USA/Dolce Vita/J. Crew/Urban Outfitters

There's a solid chance that your graduation, or at least some part of it, is taking place outside. The last thing you want are your shoes making you anxious by sinking into the grass on the football field, or, oof, tripping you up on your way to your diploma. Wedges are a solid, safe bet if a classic look and some height is what you're after. If you just want a tiny little boost,the ankle strap mini wedge from Madewell ($94.50) comes in a grip of super springy colors. If more height is what you're after, Marais USA's Firefly Wedge in Clambake ($160.00) is a super summery answer (that will perfectly match the classic Essie color of the same name). If you want something a little tougher, Dolce Vita's Mosey Platform Booties ($179.00) still give you the height, but add a little edge. If classic summer is more your look, J.Crew's Sardinia wedge espadrilles ($118.00) have that french seaside je ne sais quoi written all over them. Finally, if simple and bright is exactly what the doctor ordered, look no further than Seychelles Thyme Wedge Sandal ($95.00).

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Tags Dolce Vita, Dr. Martens, Graduation, Graduation Outfits, J.Crew, Jeffrey Campbell, Keds, Madewell, Marais USA, Nasty Gal, Seychelles, Shoes, Shopping, Urban Outfitters