Required Dress for Graduation
REQUIRED DRESS FOR GRADUATES
The Bolles School tradition regarding graduation attire does not include cap and gown, but rather for the ladies white dresses and for the men blue blazers and white pants. While on the surface it seems to be quite simple, there are more detailed conventions that MUST be met.
Please understand that these are NOT suggestions or guidelines but are requirements. The consequence of not adhering to these standards is to be excluded from the graduation processional and not participating in the graduation ceremony. Obviously, this is extremely embarrassing for the individual and very disappointing for the family and friends in attendance.
While the graduates know these requirements, your assistance in preparing for this event will be invaluable in creating a memorable and appropriate graduation experience.
For the ladies
The dress:— must be white. Off-white, ivory, cream, or ecru are not suitable.
— the dress should cover the knees when the wearer is seated
— fabric should be a material suited for a morning occasion (not form fitted)
— if it does not have sleeves, must have shoulder straps that are at least 3/4” wide (it may not be strapless or have a halter top)
— must have a modest neckline with the back no lower than the bottom of the shoulder blades
The gloves: (gloves can be ordered online here)
— must be white
— must be wrist length
— must be cotton (no lace)
The shoes: Note: Please read this
— must be white
— may not be flip-flops, platforms, or casual sandals
— must have a low heel or be flat - no “spike” heels or boots are acceptable
For the gentlemen
The jacket:— must be dark blue
The shirt:
— must be light blue, not “French” Blue
— should be a solid color
The pants:
— must be white. Off-white, ivory, cream, or ecru are not suitable
— must be worn with either a brown or black belt
The shoes:
— must be brown or black leather dress shoes
— must be worn with socks
The tie:
— must be a traditional tie (no bow tie)
— may not have cartoon characters, commercial products, advertising, team logos, etc.
The hair:
— should be clean, neatly combed, and cut above the collar
— there should be no facial hair
For all students:
As during the school day, earrings (for boys) or exposed body piercing or tattoos are not acceptable.Should you have any questions regarding these standards please contact
Piper Moyer (904) 256-5108 or , or Mrs. Tyler (904) 256-5110 or .
We recommend that the attire be approved prior to your purchase. Digital photos work well.
Girls' Graduation Attire: A number of girls have asked if "Jack Rogers" sandals or similar sandals may be worn for graduation, and the answer is NO. If sandals are worn, they should have white foot beds and should be "dressy" in appearance. Flat sandal styles that bare a large portion of the foot are not considered "dressy."
