The best graduation guest colours are soft and photogenic, so blush, sage, powder blue, dusty rose and butter yellow all look lovely in group photos without shouting. A delicate floral or a fine stripe adds a bit of interest while staying right for a daytime event. If you want something richer, a jewel tone like emerald or navy is elegant and quietly flattering on everyone. Steer clear of anything too clubby, too sheer or too short, since a graduation is a daytime, family-friendly kind of day. When in doubt as a female guest, coordinate loosely with the grad's colours for the photos, but never match her or try to outshine her.

Australia runs two graduation windows, which our full graduation guide breaks down in detail, so let the timing pick your fabric. A mid-year April to June ceremony is cooler, so a structured midi with a blazer or a light coat is ideal. An end-of-year November to December ceremony lands in real summer heat, so reach for a breathable cotton or linen-blend in a lighter colour that keeps you comfortable through a long, warm ceremony. Either way you will be sitting and standing for a while, so pick something you can move in and then forget about once you are there.