Being honored for academic achievements through a Graduation Open-House presents an excellent opportunity to showcase and honor your keen sense of cultural fashion style. Make sure you are in comfortable clothing, this includes footwear. For the last several years graduates have been presented with open-house celebrations that allow loved ones and friends to celebrate the new, or soon-to-be graduate.
As the guest of honor you receive well wishes, gifts, and bright hopes for earned accomplishments and future endeavors.
Dressing in cultural attire shows appreciation for where one has been, and honors who and what a person represents.
There are many options and styles to choose from that reflect Afro-centricity. Semi-formal, formal, dresses with flair, as well as skirts and pantsuits are available in a variety of patterns and colors.
If the open-house is going to take place between brunch and early evening light colors and fabrics provide optimal comfort. If the affair takes place in the evening after five wear in darker colors are acceptable. Of course color schemes that compliment a theme or school colors can also be pulled off well.
Accessorizing can be classic, or fun, and should add to instead of taking away from your intented goal of looking your best. If you select a high neckline, then keep necklaces short. If a ‘V’ neckline is more your style a longer piece is fine. Earrings and bracelets with cultural attire can run the gamut depending on personal style.
For footwear, consider that you will be on your feet for several hours. Greeting guests and mingling require comfortable shoes that won’t leave you with aching feet. Having a cute pair of flats on hand is a good idea in the event that your feet need relief.
Kisses and hugs are part of the big day. Be mindful that not everyone is aware that a hug can leave tell tale signs of left behind smudges of lipstick and foundation, that can wreak havoc on your ‘special day’ dress. If you notice a spot, blot as soon as possible. In fact keep a stain removal agent close by, there will likely be heavy huggers on the premises.
Stains may happen no matter how careful you are, blot, and keep it moving. After all this is one of your most special days.
A few words on hair and make-up. Style out with hair that is easy to manage for your big day. Make-up should be light, and keep lipstick handy. The cameras will be flashing as loved ones capture your smile.
The best part of an open-house is being acknowledged for your hard work and commitment to academic excellence. Enjoy your day and let your best light shine. Congratulations!