Are you the same person you were back in high school? Maybe you were an athlete, or the class clown, or the quiet academic type. That’s likely not who you are anymore.
But even if these people likely haven’t seen you for 10, 20, or 30+ years, they may still have that same impression of you from your youth. Dressing with style, in a way that reflects the true you, is your best bet for your class reunion.
You need to dress to impress. Here are the best reunion outfit and styling ideas for both women and men to stand out from the crowd amongst their fellow alumni. Let’s dig in!
| Key Takeaways – Dress to reflect your current self: Choose outfits that highlight your confidence, personal style, and growth. – Reunion themes matter: Whether it’s a decade party, black-tie affair, or casual cookout, your outfit should align with the event’s vibe. – Outfit tips for women: Go for standout pieces like a floral midi dress, bold-colored mini dress, or a lightweight blazer. Embrace your silhouette, and use accessories and fresh hair styling to elevate your look. – Outfit tips for men: Opt for polished, comfortable looks such as a beige blazer, wrinkle-free shirt, and stretch dress pants. Sharp tailoring and well-matched shoes are key. |
What to Consider Before Settling on Your Reunion Outfit?
Before you can settle on your reunion attire, you need to understand what the theme is and potential styling options to match.
Here are questions to ask yourself so that you can look your sharpest:
1. What’s the Reunion Theme?
Is there a specific theme for your reunion? Oftentimes reunion planners will pick a theme such as red carpet, county fair, a family cookout, or a decade party (especially if you graduated in the 70s, 80s, or 90s!)
If there is, the best sources for finding theme-specific attire are Google or Amazon. Simply search for the type of attire you’re looking for plus the theme (examples: ‘90s themed dress’, ‘nice shirt for bbq cookout’)
2. How Do You Want Your Outfit to Reflect the Current You?
If you’ve gotten more stylish over the years, lean into it. You’ve worked hard to earn a living and deserve to show off to your fellow alumni!
Prefer a more casual look? No need to overdo it. Just make sure not to underdress.
3. What’s Your Budget?
Can you afford to splurge? Go out and get something nice! Again, you’ve put in a lot of time and energy to be successful. You want an outfit to reflect that.
Working with a budget? Don’t forget to check your closet for clothes that can match the theme/vibe you’re going for within your existing wardrobe.
4. What Is Your Significant Other & Friend Group Wearing?
Think of all the group photos you’ll be taking. You’re going to want to have a similar look and feel to your significant other and closest friends, while still having your own distinct style.
Coordinate with your husband or wife, and be sure to hit up all of your closest friends ahead of the class reunion to make sure you’re in sync and prepared for the photos you’ll be sharing with your friends on Classmates® and Facebook!
Best Reunion Outfits for Women
1. Black Floral Dress
Consider this black floral midi dress with its sheer overlay and asymmetrical hem. The combination of a fitted waist and flowing skirt creates a flattering silhouette, while the delicate floral print adds a pop of color and charm.
Its mix of sophistication and playfulness makes it perfect for women who want to look polished yet approachable, so that you’ll stand out in group photos and feel confident while you chat up old friends.
2. Lightweight Tan Blazer
What’s better than looking good while feeling comfortable? Layering your outfit with this stylish, light neutral blazer strikes the perfect balance between casual and polished. It pairs effortlessly with jeans, trousers, or a sleek dress, giving you tons of options for the rest of your outfit.
It’s perfect for the woman who wants a stylish and confident appearance without looking overdressed, for an easygoing yet sophisticated vibe.
3. Colorful Mini Dress
This dress’ bold green shade will help you to stand out on the dancefloor and in photos in a totally classy but fun way.
It will help you feel confident and stylish with its flattering cinched waist and flowy sleeves, to make it easy to reconnect with old friends while looking unforgettable.
General Reunion Styling Tips for Women
Lean Into Colors That Pop
Wearing black could be seen as playing it safe. A bright, lively hue will make you stand out from the crowd in group photographs and capture the attention of your fellow schoolmates.
Colorful accessories can help you stand out without overdoing it too.
Practice Your ‘Pose’
Even the classiest outfit can fall flat if you’re hunched over with bad posture. Standing straight will make you look better in-person and in photos. Body language matters just as much as what you’re wearing, especially in photos.
Embrace Silhouettes
Pick attire that matches your strengths (waist definition, elongating lines, balanced proportions) instead of following trends. A classic silhouette will look great in photos and age more gracefully in everyone’s memories.
Don’t Underestimate Accessories
Standout items like bold earrings, a classy belt, or a designer bag can help you to stick out from the crowd. Think through which accessories will not only match your outfit, but take your whole look to another level.
Get a Fresh Haircut & Coloring Ahead of Time
You want your hair to reflect your classy aesthetic as well. Be sure to plan accordingly to get your hair done right before the big reunion so that your outfit isn’t the only thing getting compliments!
Layer Strategically for Maximum Comfort & Styling
A lightweight jacket or blazer will ensure you’re totally comfortable all night, and if you choose wisely, it can elevate your aesthetic to a whole other level.
Best Reunion Outfits for Men
1. Beige Blazer
This light beige blazer will pair perfectly with a crisp white shirt to instantly communicate confidence and style. This tailored outfit looks extra sharp while sticking out from the crowd of darker jackets commonly worn to reunions.
It’s polished and comfortable, giving you the perfect blend of sophistication and ease to make a strong impression while reconnecting with your peers.
2. Wrinkle-Free Green Shirt
Wrinkles can make even the classiest shirt take away from your entire look. If you’re going to be traveling to your reunion, the last thing you want to do is throw a traditional shirt into your suitcase.
A wrinkle-free shirt will ensure you’re only capturing people’s attention in a positive way. And this light green shade will help you to stand out from the crowd without being flashy.
3. Stretch Dress Pants
These elastic stretch pants are the perfect blend of classy and comfortable. Dance the night away without sacrificing your appearance for cozyness, and know that your pants pair perfectly with whatever blazer or button-down you decide on.
General Reunion Styling Tips for Men
Sharp Tailoring Goes the Extra Mile
A nice, well-fitting blazer paired with a wrinkleless shirt and tailored pants will elevate your appearance drastically.
Go for a fitting to ensure your outfit fits perfectly, and be sure to keep your shirt on a hanger so it’s not wrinkled the day of the event!
Let Subtle Colors & Textures Help You Standout
You don’t need to wear a bright, vibrant shirt to capture everyone’s attention. Consider a patterned tie, textured jacket, or subtly colored button-down shirt to stand out without overdoing it.
Trim Up Your Facial Hair
Even the nicest outfit can go unnoticed if your beard looks unruly. Take the time to style your beard and mustache so that it’s a value-add to your whole look rather than a detriment.
Make Sure Your Shoes Match
A mismatched pair of shoes can throw off your whole look. Make sure that the style of your shoes is in line with the rest of your fit.
Be Ready To Dress Down As The Night Goes On
As things get more chill after the more formal parts, coordinate your outfit so that you can remove layers (jacket, tie) and still look cohesive.
Planning to be adaptable helps you stay comfortable for the entirety of the reunion.
Plan for Your Reunion Accordingly on Classmates
Using Classmates as your reunion website keeps everything organized in one place. See whose attending, RSVP, and coordinate outfits (among every other event detail) via the discussion board within a simplified class reunion platform.
Plan or RSVP for your reunion for free on Classmates today!
Class Reunion FAQs
How Often Are Class Reunions?
High school reunions are typically held every 5 to 10 years, with the first reunion typically being 10 years out from the date of graduation. Popular times to have reunions include, 10, 20, 25, 30, 40, 50+ years after graduation.
The specific reunion often dictates how you should dress. A 10 year reunion will likely be more casual, whereas reunions further down the line tend to be more formal.
What Should Women Wear to High School Reunions?
While the specific look is completely theme/reunion dependent, many women prefer a cocktail dress, classy jumpsuit, or a paired outfit like a blouse with tailored pants or a skirt. Choosing flattering accessories is also a great way to stand out.
Regardless of the specific reunion attire you decide on, the key is to blend style with comfort, so you feel good all night and stand out from the crowd and in pictures.
What Should Men Wear to Reunions?
Men commonly dress in smart casual or semi-formal outfits with blazers and dress shirts, tailored trousers, or dark jeans with shoes to match. A well-fitting outfit highlights your maturity and confidence while still being welcoming.
Layers, like a sport coat, give you flexibility throughout the reunion depending on the temperature and casual/formal portions of the night.
What Are Popular Reunion Themes & How Should I Dress for Them?
Common themes include
- “decade nights” (‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, etc.)
- cocktail parties
- red carpet
- outdoor casual
- black-tie events
For decade themes, play with vintage-inspired touches without going full costume. Cocktail and formal events call for dresses or suits, while outdoor reunions pair well with breathable fabrics and polished smart-casual looks.
