What should I wear to my boyfriend's son's high school graduation party where I will meet his ex-wife for the first time?

What should I wear to my boyfriend's son's high school graduation party where I will meet his ex-wife for the first time? The party is in Michigan during the summer. My boyfriend and I have not been dating very long.


Aug 03, 2011
Clothing for Graduation Party
by: Kevin (Modern Manners and Etiquette)

Fashion advice is not really my strength. That would be a completely different website. :)

So, I am going to approach this question from more of the etiquette point of view to help you get the best possible outcome out of this experience.

Whenever the ex (husband or wife) meets their prior spouse's new relationship, they will typically tend to view that person in a negative way. Human nature tends to say, "That person replaced me?" In their mind, you will never be as good as them and so they will look for opportunities to find faults in you to justify their mental position.

With that thought in mind, you really would want to wear something that reduces their ability to find fault, even if it is not your normal attire. Anything that is too skimpy, too tight, too colorful, or too risque will give them reason to find faults.

This is the perfect time to be conservative. I would suggest a pair of nice, classy slacks or a skirt that goes past the knee. A tasteful blouse, or top will keep them from finding fault.

This isn't really about dressing to impress the ex. It is about dressing in a way that they cannot find fault with you just by looking at you.

Enjoy the party!