The evolution of the Grade 8 graduation

Posted Jan 26, 2012 By Kristen Coughlar

EMC Editorial - I remember my outfit for my Grade 8 graduation from Lancaster Drive Public School. It was a light blue, floor length skirt with large navy blue flowers and a slit up the side, a lavender/blue camisole and a white, short-sleeved blouse. Thirteen years ago my outfit was considered dressy-casual. Today's standards would likely see it classified as "plain", definitely not worthy of a Grade 8 graduation in 2012.

No, today's 14 year olds are surfing online and travelling to nearby towns and even across the border in search for the perfect graduation dress, out of fear that they might end up with the same dress as one of their peers if they were to shop locally.

The dresses they are in search of are sparkly and more formal than anything one would have seen at a Grade 8 graduation in my day. I would classify them as being more akin to a high school formal or prom dress.

Graduation from elementary school is certainly a milestone to be celebrated, but the scale to which it is being celebrated today is a little over the top. Keep in mind that there are still greater milestones and plenty of formal occasions to come. In addition high school, university and college graduations, there are semi-formals and formals at both the secondary and post-secondary levels.

When I imagine the dresses to be worn at these future events by those now in Grade 8 I picture Oscar worthy gowns and a step and repeat.

I understand that today's girl is more fashion conscientious than I was at 14, but I find the level of materialism being expressed by today's youth staggering.

From brands like lululemon, UGGs, T&A, Juicy Couture and Tiffany & Co., these children wear more money on their person than I can afford at age 27.

I worry that these youth are in for a world of disappointment by the time they reach adulthood and realize that they cannot maintain the lifestyle afforded to them during their child and teenage years.

There are no doubt those who will be motivated to maintain their desired lifestyle by setting and achieving high career goals, but I fear there will also be those who will end up in severe debt as a result of living beyond their means.

I would urge those students and parents currently on the hunt for the hottest formalwear item to don for their Grade 8 graduation to take a step back and reflect. By the time you factor in the dress, shipping and or the cost of gas, hair, shoes and accessories, you're looking at a Grade 8 graduation look that costs hundreds of dollars. Keep things age appropriate both in cost and style. Shop here at home for something simple, elegant and cost effective, and complete hair and makeup at home. Keep the focus off the red carpet and on their academic accomplishment. Plenty of opportunities for glamour still lie ahead.

kcoughlar@theheritageemc.ca