East Coast-style by Gabrielle Union. Photo credit: FabSugar.com

by Halee Watel

After what seems like an eternity of slaving over tests, papers and then finals, graduation can seem like a relief to most. But the stress is not over—the question still remains. What to wear?

East Coast

Schools on the East coast are notorious for their competitive academics. Like the concentration of smarts, these schools are also notorious fashion hubs. Students look as good as their GPA’s. And just because they’ve just finished a round of finals does not mean that its time to relax. Au contraire, these scholars take their graduation style seriously and so should the attendees.

Whether the commencement ceremony is indoors or outdoors, the perfect dress is key.  When shopping, think “polished.” You’re not trying to make a Lady Gaga-esque statement. You want to look good. A solid, or subtle-print strapless dress is perfect for under a gown or in the audience. It is cool enough to wear under the sun and can be paired with a light sweater or wrap for an indoor procession. If you would rather pair the pieces of your outfit, try a cropped blazer and fitted skirt.

The South. Michelle Obama. Photo credit: Firenze Jewels

The South

This unique style Mecca has laid claim to the charming sundress and necessary neckpiece: pearls. These graduations are typically not as formal as schools on the East, and many have their ceremonies outdoors. Graduates and attendees alike: pay attention to the weather! Nothing is more miserable than roasting under a gown and ruining an otherwise stunning outfit. Try light fabrics with few layers to ensure that you stay comfortable and fabulous during these sometime lengthy ceremonies.  Avoid layering.

In continuing with southern style, don’t be afraid to try a hat. A colored, straw hat or a straw-colored hat with a band or light scarf is instantly elegant and classy. Just be sure that 1. you can still see the stage 2. It does not hit your neighbor and 3. If you have to take it off, your hair is hat proof.

West Coast. Anne Hathaway. Photo credit: FabSugar.com

West Coast

When “Cali Style” meets commencement ceremony, graduates and attendees alike have the luxury of dressing up or down for the occasion. A sundress, wrap dress, or tunic are all appropriate.  To prepare for cooler temperatures and wind-chill, pair with a sweater or scarf. For an edgy look, pair a fitted blazer with cropped shorts.

Absolutely Necessary Accessory: Sunglasses

Wherever the graduation, you will be outside at one point in time. Sunglasses make any day-look instantly stylish, and if you are blessed with watching or graduating in sunny weather, great shades are key. Find a pair that do not overwhelm your face and compliment your cheeks and nose. If you find your current pairs are a loose, gently bend the ends of the arms (pieces that rest on your ears) inward. This tightens their grip on your head, and they wont slip or slide.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!

It’s time to break out the cozy sweaters and cords!  Nothing says fall better than a crisp drive through the country’s best display of autumn splendor – New England.

If you are lucky enough to make it to this region of the US in September and October, you can take any one of dozens of recommended fall foliage tours in Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, and Vermont that can range anywhere between 30 to 200+ miles.Warm, moist air from the south and cold, dry air to the north make the weather there a little unpredictable this time of year, so layers are ideal instead of packing hard cold-weather items like a parka or long johns.   Style-wise, while trends are appreciated here as in any other part of the country, New Englanders seem to always maintain that sense of classic simplicity with a twist of individuality here and there, so that special key fall piece like your furry vest, tailored hat, or funky scarf are a go.

Color choices tend to be richer and deeper.  Neutrals like mushroom gray, tan, beige, and black are also great options layered together or with brighter colors.

Make sure you have layers that can withstand any extreme changes as you peel each one off.  Simply wearing a thin layer, like a tank or tee, under a super-thick jacket might not get you through a rise or drop in temperature between 45 and 80 degrees (yes, this can actually happen!).

________Vermont foliage.

Instead, opt for a three-layer plan: A thin layer of a slim tee, tank, or dress; a second layer of a light cardigan, knit vest, fleece, hoodie, or light knit sweater; then a water-repellant jacket, leather jacket, or cropped trench to pull it all together.  Leggings, a skirt or fall shorts with tights in a fabulous color, jeans, or other casual pairs of pants like velveteen or corduroy have you covered on the bottom.   Don’t forget your knit cap, tailored hat, or thin knit scarf for cooler days or nights.

Hopefully you will be doing some walking to truly enjoy the foliage and fresh air.  Street-ready sneakers, low-heeled or flat boots (LOVE the plethora of slouchy suede styles out there!), or a comfortable pair of flats will let you cover miles (or, ok, YARDS) of enjoyment.

And after a long day of driving through the autumn wonderland, why not relax in your cozy room at a quaint bed and breakfast? SO New England!

Although October tends to be generally clear, our rule is: You just never know! And this year’s Farmer’s Almanac seems to predict an unusually rainy forecast in October.  Prepare for a random rainstorm with a water-repellant jacket (places like REI and LL Bean carry investment pieces in more tailored-looking styles), a classic rain slicker, or a great trench, which can all act as your top layer.  And, if you planned it just right, wellingtons to suit your style will complete your fall rain look.

Remember that the more inland or west you go, the cooler the temps will be while the coast tends to be warmer due to the heating of the Gulf stream just offshore (the Atlantic tends to be warmer than the Pacific because of this). Check out My Stylist for weather conditions and to help you plan your wardrobe!

Jessica Alba

Modified equestrian is always a good fall look.

Ashley Tisdale

•    The Village Shoppes at Salzburg Square | An collection of boutique stores housed in tudor-style Bavarian architecture that you’d swear you were in a German forest; visit Roxie’s Fashions for fabulous finds; Amherst, NH.  And don’t forget – tax-free shopping in New Hampshire!

•    Galapagos Boutique | An a-DOR-able old South County farmhouse filled with everything from Spanx to Hudson jeans and Alice + Olivia; Charlestown, Rhode Island.

•    Brass Mill Center and Commons |125+ mall stores, including H&M; Waterbury, Connecticut.

•    Clinton Crossing Premium Outlets | 70+ outlet shops, includes Barneys New York, Banana Republic, Michael Kors, and Kenneth Cole; Clinton, Connecticut.

•    Ralph Lauren | Classic American style that keeps evolving.

•    Downtown Portsmouth, New Hampshire | Hundreds of well-known and local boutique stores; visit Puttin’ on the Glitz for some awesome and affordable pieces that are vintage or from around the world; Portsmouth, NH.

•    Vermont Fall Foliage Tours | The official state website’s comprehensive guide to recommended tours.

•    Maine Fall Foliage Tours | The official state website’s comprehensive guide to recommended tours.

•    Massachusetts Fall Foliage Tours | Mass.’s Office of Travel and Tourism website with recommended tours.

•    Connecticut Fall Foliage Tours | Official Visit Connecticut site featuring recommended tours.

•    New Hampshire Fall Foliage Tours | The New England Times guide to recommended tours.

•    Visit New Enland | The best online tourism guide to the New England experience.

•    Farmer’s Almanac | Chillier and rainier weather this fall, but don’t let that stop you from visiting during peak fall foliage.

Hey, Travelistas! Wanna know what to wear for the weather? Just click on My Stylist and type in your location, date, and an occasion and let My Stylist do the rest. Join us on Facebook and Twitter for everything fashion and travel from WeareverTheWeather.com!