10 Grad Gift Trends to Know About for Cap + Gown Season

Lulus Cause to Celebrate Midi Dress ($79)

Hell-bent on avoiding an all-white ensemble? Then this beautiful, chiffon midi dress from Lulus is what you need for your big day. Artfully covered in subtle, gold dots, this dress is truly a ‘cause to celebrate!’

Anthropologie Mare Mare Romper ($168)

Giving the illusion of a dress, this adorable romper is complete with shorts underneath hidden by side panels for both coverage and comfort.

Endless Rose Crochet Lace Dress ($130)

Yes way, appliqué. The flower overlay is a sweet nod to femininity and the interesting crochet texture that covers this mini dress is sure to make you stand out among others.

Free People Feeling Bonita Dress ($108)

Effortlessly chic, this cap sleeve midi dress will photograph like a dream in any and all graduation pics. Plus, it’s the perfect addition to pack for all your post-grad travels this summer! Win-win!

Tommie Cap-Sleeve Dress ($170)

This simple midi dress if perfect for a graduation, and it even offers plenty of extensive sizing! We also love the cap-sleeve moment for a classy look.

Lulus Devoted Lover Midi Dress ($68)

Business in the front, party in the back; this bodycon dress features a high neckline that exudes a professional feel while the low back with a twist detail brings a playful aspect.

Reformation Catarina Dress ($218)

Short and sweet - enough said.

Amanda Uprichard Evaline Dress ($198)

Amanda Uprichard hit the nail on the head with this beautiful, sleek short-sleeved dress that will leave you wondering how you ever survived without it.

Free People Ultraviolet Dress ($148)

If typical dresses aren’t your style, not to worry, Free People has you covered. This polka dot midi dress is sophisticated yet fun with a flair; perfect for saying your farewells to any classmates you may have been crushing on ;).

Nordstrom ASTR Off the Shoulder Dress ($90)

Hill House is known for their nap dresses, and for good reason. Constructed from 100% silk, this sleeveless dress lets you wear it, instead of the other way around.

Petal and Pup Luelle Dress ($79)

Graduation aside, you need this dress in your closet. Featuring satin material for easy movement, this midi dress is a staple piece that will last through the years.

House of CB Tallulah Dress ($209)

This elegant smock dress is comfortable enough for all-day wear, yet has a timeless feel that elevates the look of anyone who puts it on.

Eloquii Strong Shoulder Dress ($65)

Eloquii’s mission to provide extended sizes in a fashionable manner is evident in this curve-hugging midi dress complete with the fun shoulder detailing.

Reformation Moya Two Piece Set ($248)

This flirty, flouncy two piece set is perfect if you’d prefer to show less skin, and it’s super popular right now - so grab it while you can!!

Showpo Vashti Mini Dress ($70)

Showpo’s puff sleeve dress is so cute, you’ll have a hard time not buying it in every color after graduation.

Eloquii Lace Tiered Dress ($189)

This stunning lace-detailed dress is available in extensive sizes and is sure to be a show-stopper underneath a graduation gown.

Nordstrom BP Mini Dress ($49)

A fold-over neckline and slit make this a cute and fun take on a white graduation dress. We think that's it's the perfect mix of classy and cute put together!

Lisa Says Gah Alex Shirtdress ($148)

Lean into the coquette aesthetic with this lightweight, cotton mini dress, sure to fulfill your grad dress dreams and beyond.

Peppermayo Loren Midi Dress ($75)

Elegant and affordable, this silky midi dress has details including a ruched chest and a back tie to accentuate your curves in a subtle way.

Madewell Plus Tiered Midi Dress ($128)

A sweetheart neckline and button detail make this sleeveless dress perfect for warmer graduation ceremonies, and with size offerings up to a 28, it’s a great fit for all who are interested.

Add a pop of color to your sister's walls with this gorgeous print.

If your sister loves stunning artwork but not the crazy price tag, a high-quality print is perfect. She gets a gorgeous new piece of art and saves a pretty penny. We're calling this a win-win.

Gift your sis a mix of everlasting, dried florals arranged in petite bud vase to match. Not only will this bouquet stay gorgeous forever, but it's the perfect accent in any room.

No one ever buys themselves new makeup brushes. It's just a fact of girlhood. While your sister may not be dolling herself up 24/7, make sure she feels beautiful with these luxe, practical brushes.

The definition of an effortless essential, this cool and classic pullover is featured in an oversized, slouchy fit with raw, exposed seaming throughout for a true lived-in look.

As far as we're concerned, UGGs can be worn year round. Especially as we head into cooler months, make sure your sister is as comfortable as possible with the perfect pair of sherpa-lined booties.

Support the health of your sister's skin with this completely reimagined humidifier that also alleviates symptoms of cold and flu.

We can picture ourselves lounging under a cabana right now with this tunic on. Add some color to your sister's wardrobe with this funky take on a classic silhouette.

So your sister refuses to be pale. Ever. Up her tanning game with this high-quality, skin-safe tanning bundle from Saltyface.

"Ommmmmmmm..." That's how relaxed your sis will be with this new yoga mat in her life. Oh, and it comes in a variety of thicknesses, which is amazing for yogis at any stage.

Made for sunny days, these effortlessly cool sunglasses are featured in a classic square-shaped frame and aviator-inspired style with a delicate brow bar, eye-catching tinted lenses and adjustable nose pads.

Add effortless edge to any style with this relaxed hoodie featured in a slouchy. Whether your sister is heading to pilates or the grocery store, she'll be dressed for (relaxed) success with this sweatshirt on.

We love a unique fragrance, and these ones from Bel Rebel truly take our breath away.

The perfect layer for all your sster's workouts, this long-sleeve tee features a flowy, A-line silhouette with raw seam details and thumbholes at the sleeves.

Whether you're sister is a sugaring pro or shaving loyalist, gift her any of sugardoh's products for hair-free skin in no time. *Practically* garunteed.

Everyone loves flowers! And everyone deserves flowers! Treat your sis with a gorgeous, fresh bouquet, delivered straight to her door.

Painful shoes are the absolute worst. Save your sis from uncomfortable sneakers with a pair of Hokas that are just as practical as they are cute.

If your sister loves jewelry, up her earring stack with these stunning duster earrings. She'll be scoring compliments in no time.

Truth be told, we love Teressa Foglia's hats. They're expensive, yes, but they're also such incredible quality. If your sis is a hat girl, surprise her with a handmade hat that's (literally) designed to fit her head. Talk about a showstopper.

So sleek for a sophisticated touch, these pointed toe mules from Jeffrey Campbell are featured in a soft suede with bow and grommet details and a skinny stiletto heel.

We are active practitioners of the Holy Bible of Lymphatic Drainage, and with a little research (ahem — TikTok) we're sure your sis will be hooked.

An easy-to-install filtered shower head that reduces dissolved minerals, added chlorine and other contaminants in your sister's household water, providing clean water that supports healthy skin and hair. Just what the doctor ordered.

So flirty and fun shorts to spice up your workout attire, featured in a flowy style with a high-rise, smocked waistband and side pockets.

We swear by silk hair ties. Prevent additional breakage and damage with these skinny, buttery-soft scrunchies from slip.

Make leftovers as easy as 1-2-3 with a Porter Bowl. This premium ceramic bowl features a protective silicone wrap, rigid plastic lid and snap-tight silicone strap and can be used in the microwave, dishwasher and it's BPA free.

For those days when your sister's skin is extra thirsty, this mask will hydrate, plump and diminish the look of wrinkles, while cooling and soothing the skin.

Every girl needs a basic pair of hoops. As long as she's a gold jewelry gal, then these will be her new go-to earrings.

Bring some design and texture into your sis's home with this vintage-inspired surf pennant.

You can't deny how adorable this top is. It's impossible.

In one step, this mini face peel works while your sis is sleep to resurface and renew her complexion. A blend of Lactic and Glycolic Acids works to break down dead skin cells, anti-aging Vitamin A exfoliates, brightens, and hydrates, and skin-conditioning Allantoin, Rosehip, and Vitamin E keep skin calm. It's pH-balanced, non-drying, and non-irritating, so it won't leave her red or flaky — just bright and refreshed. It's even gentle enough to use on back-to-back nights.

If your sister is in the market for a chunky, albeit simple gold chain, then this one is sure to fulfill her wish.

We're suckers for photography prints. If your sis is too, then check out Australian-based photographer Saxon Kent's collection of prints for incredible landscapes and jaw-dropping colors.

Dew of the Gods Claydate Healing Face Mask ($42)

This mineral-rich, creamy mud of the gods is infused with rosehip oil, aloe, coconut oil, and hyaluronic acid, working to purify, heal, tone and remineralize the skin.

Purple blush is all the rage, and this lightweight, skincare-infused liquid blush delivers a buildable rush of color with eight-hour hydration. Perfect for skincare specialists and makeup mavens alike.

This universal mascara has a unique eye-hugging brush to lift, lengthen, curl and volumize every lash type, delivering a lush look to even the sparsest of eyelashes.

Achieve that flawless glow with this velour powder puff. This tiny tool will help your sis set her base for an airbrushed look with expertly smooth application, and better yet it’s both reusable and machine washable!

Even if your sister doesn’t have a green thumb, this fun ceramic pot will make it seem like she does. For some extra pizazz, pick up some succulents from your local nursery for an even cuter presentation.

Everyone needs a great quality cooking pan, and this one from Our Place is perfect for making all of her favorites.

Filled to the brim with warm, comforting recipes to enjoy with family and loved ones, this cookbook gives classic dishes the Chrissy Teigen treatment — and are downright delicious.

We can't help ourselves with all of the art recommendations! Pick up one of Leena Joshi's original paintings or prints for the perfect accent to any space.

With space to hold three cords in place, this acrylic cord manager makes it easy to keep cables in control and your sister's desk neat and tidy.

This gadget keeps on giving with its innovative smart features. Your sis can control up to two scents at a time to give her home the most modern, customized and high-end scenting experience possible.

If you're looking for a gift that's a bit on the pricier side, look no further. Tell your sister to say "so long" to her college Brita filter with this reverse osmosis water filtration system. Better yet, it will fit right underneath her sink for clean, purified water 24/7.

You can't go wrong with Big Naturals, at least in our experience. This picpoul white wine has refreshing notes of "green apple, melon, Sourpatch Kids, and bright minerality," perfect for summer sessions.

If you love mixed media art, then you'll definitely love Tahlia Stanton. This Australian-based artist creates the most incredible pieces, so order an original or print for a little infusion of color in your sister's art collection.

Big enough to hold piles of sliced and diced veggies while your sis preps, beautiful enough to take straight to the table stacked with cheese and charcuterie. Oh, and it can hold her phone too.

Relax, unwind and improve your sister's wellbeing with this interchangeable massage gun.

Water flossers are game changers, and you'd never know until your try them yourself.

Now that we're on the teeth train, give your sis a healthier smile with this essential bundle from keeko.

Meet your sister's new nighttime ritual for glowing skin! Bed Babe has made beauty sleep a reality and packed skin-loving ingredients into a tasty drink mix to help your sis sleep soundly while improving skin hydration, texture and elasticity.

The kettlebell and the dumbbell had a baby — and it turns out she’s prettycute. Press, hold, swing and squat to increase strength, agility, endurance and balance.

This clean, plant-based multivitamin has 20 essential nutrients in their most bioavailable forms to support a healthy immune system, cognitive function and support vision health by protecting the eyes against blue light exposure from digital devices.

No, it's not kombucha. Give this kombucha-adjacent beverage a try for all the probiotics and all the best flavors.

If your sis is a holistic health and wellness fanatic, give her the gift of health with an Organic Olivia gift card. She'll LOVE it, trust us.

Soft, reusable period underwear that hold up to 3 regular tampons worth of liquid – cycle after cycle. It may not be the sexiest gift, but it sure is practical.

If your goal is to become a stay at home sister, get your sis started on the right track with this uplifting money manifesto set to shift the tides of financial power head on.

Lea Michele as Rachel Barry

Without a doubt, the most notable thing Lea Michele has done since the end of Glee is FINALLY starring as Fanny Brice in Broadway's Funny Girl. It was a super meta moment that brought reality and Glee lore together, and the entire internet lost their minds. You can also watch her in Scream Queens and New Year's Eve. Lea is currently expecting her second child with husband Zandy Reich, and has been very vocal about her struggle with PCOS.

Corey Monteith as Finn Hudson

Before he was on Glee, Corey Monteith had roles on Smallville and Supernatural. He's also reportedly the inspiration behind Taylor Swift's "Mine" from Speak Now. You can also see him in Monte Carlo and Final Destination 3. Corey passed away on July 13, 2013.

Chris Colfer as Kurt Hummel

Chris Colfer is one of my personal favorite members of the cast of Glee, especially since Kurt is such a sweetheart. You can see him in Absolutely Fabulous: The Movie and RuPaul's Drag Race: All Stars, and you can read his The Land of Stories book series! The actor and author has been in a relationship with Will Sherrod since 2013.

Jane Lynch as Sue Sylvester

Jane Lynch is one of the most iconic members of the cast of Glee thanks to her portrayal of Sue,and since the show wrapped, she's been involved with a number of other hit projects. You can see her in The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Wreck-It Ralph, Selena Gomez's Another Cinderella Story, and Only Murders in the Building. The actress lives with her wife Jennifer Cheyn, who she married in 2021.

Jenna Ushkowitz as  Tina Cohen-Chang

Jenna Ushkowitz joined the cast of Glee after her run in Spring Awakening on Broadway. She's done a few other Broadway shows like Waitress, and won Tonys for as a producer on Once on This Island and The Inheritance! You can also see Jenna in Lady Gaga's "Marry the Night" music video, as well as Katy Perry and Nicki Minaj's "Swish Swish," and listen to her And That’s What You Really Missed podcast, which she co-hosts with Glee star Kevin McHale. Jenna married David Stanley on July 24, 2021 (Kevin was her "man of honor" — cute!!) and in June 2022, gave birth to their daughter.

Kevin McHale as Artie Abrams

In addition to starring in Glee (and listening to his And That's What You Missed podcast, of course), you can see Kevin McHale in Bratz, Zoey 101, and American Horror Stories. He's been in a relationship with actor Austin P. McKenzie since 2016.

Ali Stroker as Betty Pillsbury

Ali Stroker was a finalist for The Glee Project (a reality show that gave contestants the opportunity to appear in the show) before guest starring in season 4. Since the 2013 episode, Ali has starred in Lifetime's Christmas Ever After and also had a small role on Only Murders in the Building. The actress also became the first person with a disability to both receive a Tony nomination and award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for portraying Ado Annie in Oklahoma!

Dianna Agron as Quinn Fabray

After playing Debbie Marshall on Milo Ventimiglia's Heroes, Dianna nabbed the role of complicated cheerleader Quinn on Glee. She's also had roles in Burlesque, I Am Number Four, Ralph Breaks the Internet, and The Chosen One. In 2022, Dianna finished her third residency Café Carlyle which is sooo giving Quinn Fabray.

Alex Newell as Wade "Unique" Adams

Alex Newell stole hearts as Unique on Glee, and since the finale, they've also starred in Empire and Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist, as well as Broadway's revival of Once on This Island and Shucked (for which they became the first openly nonbinary performer to win a Tony).

Melissa Benoist as Marley Rose

Melissa Benoist just starred in Max's Girls on the Bus (watch our interview with her here!), but she might be best known for the title role in The CW's Supergirl. You can also see her in Patriot's Day, The Longest Ride, and Whiplash. Like other members of the cast of Glee, Melissa starred on Broadway and made her debut as Carole King in Beautiful. After splitting from Glee co-star Blake Jenner in 2017, Melissa got remarried to Chris Wood in 2019 and gave birth to their son in 2020.

Chord Overstreet as Sam Evans

My personal favorite project from this Glee cast member is Falling for Christmas, which also stars Lindsay Lohan! You can also see him in iCarly, The Bold Type, and The Middle. The actor and singer dated Emma Watson in 2018, and in 2020, Chord released his song "Hold On," which has over 826 million streams on Spotify.

Jayma Mays as Emma Pillsbury

In addition to being a part of the cast of Glee, Jayma Mays has starred in Paul Blart: Mall Cop, Heroes, and Red Eye. She married Adam Campbell in 2007 and gave birth to their son in 2016. Most recently, Jayma starred opposite Amy Adams and Maya Rudolph in Disenchanted!

Amber Riley as Mercedes Jones

Amber Riley's Mercedes is one of the best parts of Glee (and her rendition of "Bust Your Windows" is among the best performances on the show!!). Since the end of the series, Amber has starred in The Wiz Live!, The Little Mermaid Live!, and Monster High. She won Dancing with the Stars season 17 in 2013, and released her RILEY EP in 2020.

Darren Criss as Blaine Anderson

Darren Criss won an Emmy in 2018 for his role in The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story, which is only slightly more impressive than his involvement in the viral, deep-cut production of A Very Potter Musical (kidding!). You can also see him in Melissa Benoist's Supergirl and Muppets Haunted Mansion. Darren married his longtime girlfriend Mia Swier in 2019, and the couple welcomed their first child in 2022.

Blake Jenner as Ryder Lynn

Blake Jenner starred in The Edge of Seventeen with Hailee Steinfeld and Haley Lu Richardson, as well as Supergirl and What/If. Blake married Melissa Benoist while they were both in the cast of Glee, but the couple divorced in 2017. In 2019, Melissa revealed in an Instagram video that she's a survivor of domestic violence + injuries she received from a past partner. Blake responded in 2020, revealing he had been the partner Melissa referenced.

Dot-Marie Jones as Coach Beiste

Not only does Dot-Marie Jones play a coach in the cast of Glee, but she's also a 15-time world arm wrestling champion IRL. You can see her in Lizzie McGuire,Material Girls, Weird: The Al Yankovic Story, and Killing It. Dot-Marie has been married to Bridgett Casteen since 2013.

Naya Rivera as Santana Lopez

Naya Rivera's Santana was one of the best characters on TV, and she had incredible vocal chops to boot. You can see the actress in Step Up: High Water, CSI: Miami, and Even Stevens. Naya passed away in 2020 while boating with her son Josey in 2020.

Heather Morris as Brittany Pierce

After you've binge watched Glee (again), you can see Heather Morris in Santa Fake, Cora Bora, Raven's Home, and So Help Me Todd. She competed in season 24 of Dancing With the Stars (she was also a backup dancer for Beyoncé, slay!), and shares two children with husband Taylor Hubbell.

Matthew Morrison as Will Schuester

Matthew Morrison has been in a number of musical productions outside of Glee, including the OG Broadway casts of Hairspray,The Light in the Piazza, and Finding Neverland. Most recently, he starred in Christmas movie Paris Christmas Waltz. Matthew shares two children with his wife Renee Puente.

Harry Shum Jr. as Mike Chang 

Harry Shum Jr. starred opposite Nina Dobrev in Love, Hard on Netflix, and you can also see him in Step Up 2: The Streets and Step Up 3D, as well as Everything Everywhere All At Once. He plays a small role during the credits of Crazy Rich Asians, and will reportedly star in a spinoff about his character and Gemma Chan's Astrid. He shares a child with wife Shelby Rabara.

Mark Wayne Salling as Noah "Puck" Puckerman 

Before joining the cast of Glee, Mark Salling starred in Walker, Texas Ranger, Children of the Corn IV: The Gathering, and The Graveyard. He also released his Pipe Dreams album after founding Pipe Dreams Records. Mark passed away in 2018.