The dreaded high school reunion. Or maybe, it’s the highly anticipated reunion. That invitation is coming either way. And no matter what high school experience you had, that invite likely inspires feelings of anxiety and confusion — as you wonder what to wear to a high school reunion.
I mean, is it a general rule that reunion information has to be as vague and confusing as possible or what? As if there isn’t enough concern around meeting up with people you (probably, most-likely, almost definitely) put in your past for a reason.
But then again, it could be fun. It could give you the chance to reconnect with some old friends. It could be a chance to prove, hey, you turned out alright, or even just give you a break from the office, or the baby, or anything else that’s become your life since leaving your adolescence for the “real world.”
Maybe it’s your 10-year, maybe it’s your 30th. The numbers don’t matter. What does matter is how much you stress out over wanting to look your best.
With so much left up in the air regarding the high school reunion dress code, there are only a few ways to ensure no Romy & Michele-esque scenario goes down. And that starts with being comfortable in clothing, sure, but also in your own skin.
So let’s get you there. We’ll start with the dos and don’ts and follow up with some garment picks that are sure to inspire your own shopping.
Sure-fire fail: Going over the top
Don’t go over-the-top to impress anyone other than yourself. If you love rockin’ a mini on the regular, rock on. If you don’t normally teeter around in heels, but strap them on because of some silly idea of necessity…you’re likely to be stuck on the sidelines all night. Or worse, you’ll lose your balance and take a dive into the punch bowl. Just say no.
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Don’t be afraid to ask
Reach out to your old friends to touch base on their planned dress code. If a group of you set a dress code, you won’t stick out. And, your ‘grams will look amazing.
Don’t ignore your style
Know your style. Know your body. Know what works for you and, most importantly, what makes you feel good. Because when you feel good, you’re happier.
Don’t forget to check the location
Dress to the location of the event. You likely weren’t given a dress code at all (I know I wasn’t) so if it’s in a local bar, you might consider the attire to be a little more casual than, say, one being held in a ballroom or country club.
Don’t overlook the LBD
When in doubt, wear black. It’s slimming, eternally glamorous — even in the most casual of pieces — and works for every skin tone.
If you need some more concrete advice, you’re in luck. Here are our top picks for foolproof high school reunion fashion ideas.
High school reunion outfit ideas
What to wear to a 10-year high school reunion
At your 10-year reunion, opt for sophisticated but sexy. The sophisticated angle is important — it’ll differentiate you from two camps. One is your female classmates who arrive in skimpy, next-to-nothing dresses because they’re still learning how to be adults. The other is the crew who’s doubling down on the mom persona and arrives in a practical pantsuit and flat shoes.
You can achieve that look with a longer length paired with one statement-making detail. That detail can be the color, a slinky silhouette, flirty neckline, luxurious fabric, or a modestly open back. See two examples below.
Wear this hot pink number when the reunion is in the evening in an upscale venue. The color makes enough of a statement that the cut can be conservative. This dress says, “I am powerful, hear me roar (b*tches).”
This patterned dress from Chico’s Off The Rack is more casual than the hot pink option above, but also more versatile. Dress it up with your best jewelry and head-turning heels for evening reunions. Or, keep accessories to a minimum and slip into low-heeled sandals for afternoon events.
What to wear to a 20-year high school reunion
Flaunting your sex appeal at the 10-year reunion is cliche. But by the time your 20-year rolls around, all bets are off. Feel free to show off your assets. The life experience you’ve acquired over the past two decades should give you the confidence to pull it off.
Plus, at your 20-year high school reunion, you have nothing to prove — well, except that you’re super hot and not afraid to show it. A little sparkle or a little cleavage tells that story perfectly.
Boohoo’s satin wrap dress combines a sexy neckline with a pretty, girly color in the very best way. As I’m writing this, the dress is 60% off. Act fast and you can pick it up for $21.40.
One shoulder and high-low hemlines also up the flirty quotient on your high school reunion outfit. This pretty navy dress from Lulu’s has both.
What to wear to a 30-year high school reunion
Elegant and tasteful is the name of the game at your 30-year high school reunion. Try an LBD paired with an easy updo.
Alexia Admore’s sheath dress has a flattering shape and an interesting v-back with an exposed zipper. It’s both stylish and classy, plus easy to dress up with your finest gemstones. You can also opt for a color instead of black — sage and magenta are my picks.
The shape of this dress is so beautiful — it has the right amount of ruching on the bodice to create that flattering, fluid look. And the cape adds interest and glamour, without being overwhelming.
What to wear to a 40-year high school reunion
Steer clear of frumpy, matronly styles for your 40-year reunion. I’m not sure why designers make those dresses — shapeless coverups look good on no one. Choose sleek instead. Show off the shape you have. A jumpsuit is an excellent choice.
A wrap-style jumpsuit with long sleeves can be modest and eye-catching at the same time. At a sparkling gemstone pendant to this number and you’re ready to take on the town (oh, and your former classmates).
High school reunion dress code FAQs
To keep you out of the self-conscious place, here are a few snarky and a few serious FAQs about how to dress for your high school reunion.
Can I wear my prom dress from senior year, even if it doesn’t fit anymore?
Hard pass on that strategy. Not because it wouldn’t be funny, but because you won’t be comfortable.
Is it acceptable to show up in a ball gown?
Only if you were voted Class Clown.
Is it OK to bring a red carpet and pay fake paparazzi to chase me into the venue from the car?
I love this strategy but it only works if the reunion is in LA or New York. If you live in Cedar Falls, no one’s going to fall for it.
Can I wear jeans and a t-shirt to my high school reunion?
I wouldn’t wear jeans and a t-shirt. If you feel compelled to dress down, maybe you should sit out the event entirely. Going too casual is somewhat disrespectful to your former classmates who planned the event and are super excited to be there.
Is it OK to wear the same outfit I wore to a previous reunion?
It’s best to avoid rewearing the same outfit to multiple reunions. While the strategy will show that you’ve kept your weight consistent over the years, some people are likely to raise an eyebrow. And people who are enthusiastic about reunions will notice — because in the days leading up to the next reunion, they’re likely to relive photos from the last one.
Can I wear a hat or accessories to enhance my outfit?
Yes, accessories are always welcome. They can enhance your outfit and be conversation starters. Hats, especially fascinators, can add some sophistication to your look, but they are higher maintenance. If you bump into something, you’re likely to mess up your hair and have trouble putting it back. Easier options are a pretty pair of earrings, a necklace, or bracelet. Choose one statement piece and be ready to explain where you bought it and what you like about it.
Is it acceptable to wear something nostalgic or related to high school memories?
Yes, you can wear something nostalgic as long as it’s subtle. Don’t wear your ex-boyfriend’s letterman’s jacket (especially if he’s now married to someone else). Do wear a cheap ring your best gal pal bought for you during one of your mall trips.
Should I wear something that represents my current profession or lifestyle?
You should wear something that represents you. If that involves a reference to your job or lifestyle, great.
Is it better to overdress or underdress for a high school reunion?
It’s better to overdress vs. underdress for a high school reunion. Overdressing in the extreme may give the impression you’re aloof. Underdressing in the extreme tells people you’re sloppy. Personally, I’d rather be perceived as aloof, even snobby, over sloppy.
Should I wear comfortable shoes for the reunion?
Yes, you should wear comfortable shoes. Your feet will thank you. What’s comfortable can range from stilettos (when you have a high pain tolerance) to loafers (which can be very stylish).
