Can you believe that schools across the country are already starting to break for summer? The graduation season is upon us again. It’s great to see graduation celebrations returning to their pre-pandemic form, with students across the country again able to celebrate this milestone according to time-honored traditions.
I actually missed my own graduation—it was later in the year in the UK and I was already working in Switzerland. To be honest, after getting my BA I couldn’t wait to get away from studying and finally start to build my career, so I didn’t feel I was missing out. Little did I know then that my alma mater would invite me back years later for an honor which gave me a front row seat to the traditions of British graduation regalia. Unfortunately, no one informed me that my rented gown and cap for my ceremony was in a rather heavy mohair which, when worn over my lovely wool suit and tie and under the lights of the stage, caused me to be almost cooked to death.
Like all events, being dressed correctly can make all the difference between having a good time and feeling uncomfortable all day long, particularly if you are spending the larger part of the day under the sun. I do love the way a graduation becomes a great family moment. With parents proudly showing up for their kids, dressed nicely for the occasion, it’s always a moment to mark on the calendar and to capture the memory in photos and films. Stepping out for a child’s academic milestone, you should look and feel especially great. It’s appropriate to make an extra effort for a graduation—if not for yourself, then for your family’s celebration.
I think my go-to recommendation would be a sportcoat in anything from a traditional navy to more of a statement in color or pattern if you want to stand out in style. The navy blazer assumes a traditional character, but it also becomes an easy combo when worn with a mid-range or light shade of chino such as oatmeal or chalk. A pop of accent color worn underneath can make a spring or summertime statement, and at J.Hilburn we have many solids and micro prints with different layers of color for an additional touch of modern style. For those not looking for traditional, we have some lovely mid tone greens which this season look especially fresh when worn with other natural shades.
Choosing a brighter color for a sportcoat is another summer choice which can work well throughout the sunny season. Choose a patterned or solid pop of color to lift your mood immediately—it’s a lovely way to show up to a graduation and any event your summer may offer.
The right summer sportcoat will carry you effortlessly through the entire season, especially if you choose the right blended fabric with colorations that reflect a summer mood. Our latest range includes ultra-fine wools blended with linen, cotton and silk for a unique summer texture that is caused by the “slubs” of the natural fibers that are blended with the wool. This tweed effect is often in ivory or natural, which gives a distinct appearance that pairs perfectly with light-colored khaki chinos and 5-pockets. Inspired by the optimism of summer, our favorite sportcoat colors are classic ocean blues, natural greens, as well as some accents of salmon, turquoise and pink.
A summer sportcoat is the perfect “dress-up” for those occasions where you don’t need a suit, but rather a tailored piece to add that touch of formality to a casual outfit like a cotton 5-pocket and open neck woven shirt. Garden parties, summer ceremonies, weddings and of course graduations are exactly the sort of summer occasions when your sportcoat will be your main go-to piece. And even if you’re just dressing up a bit for a special dinner or date night, a summer-perfect sportcoat will add just the right dressed-up tone.
