Dressing for occasions in Ghana
Smart outfits for graduation day
By sneakersInn team · Updated
For graduation day, wear a lightweight suit or a crisp shirt and tailored trousers under your gown, with polished leather shoes. Keep colours light or mid-tone for the heat and the photos. For the celebration afterwards, swap the jacket for something with more personality: a print shirt, a knitted polo or traditional wear.
| Role | Ceremony | Party after |
|---|---|---|
| Graduate | Light grey or navy suit, white shirt, tie, brown or black shoes | Remove the jacket, or change to a print shirt or kaftan |
| Family or friend | Smart trousers, shirt, optional blazer, or traditional wear | Same, more relaxed |
| Guest at an outdoor ceremony | Linen shirt, light trousers, loafers | Same |
What do I wear under a graduation gown?
Something light and smart. Gowns are warm, ceremonies are long and often outdoors in Ghana's heat. A white or light blue shirt with a tie and tailored trousers is enough; a suit jacket under a gown can be very hot. Check whether your university has rules, such as dark trousers or a specific shirt colour.
Which colours photograph well?
Mid-tones and light colours, such as navy, light grey and stone, photograph better than very dark or very bright colours. Avoid fine stripes, which can flicker in photos. On dark skin, white, cream and light blue shirts look crisp. See best colours for dark skin.
Which shoes?
Polished leather shoes you've already broken in. You'll stand, walk and pose for hours. Brown derbies or loafers with lighter suits; black oxfords with navy or charcoal. See derbies, oxfords and loafers explained.
How do I stay cool?
Lightweight fabrics, a thin undershirt, water and a handkerchief. Carry your jacket until you need it. See linen suits.
What about the party afterwards?
Celebrate in something you enjoy wearing: a print shirt, a smock, a kaftan or a knitted polo with chinos. See Friday wear: mixing African prints with modern pieces.
Graduated? What next for your wardrobe?
Your first job needs a different wardrobe. See upgrading your style after university.
Questions
Should graduates wear a tie?
For the ceremony, it looks smart in photos. Check your university's guidance.
Can I wear sneakers?
Under a gown, leather shoes look better in photos. For the party, clean sneakers are fine.
What suit should a graduate buy?
A navy suit; it will serve for interviews too. See navy vs charcoal.