10 Clever DIY Grad Caps to Rock for Your Graduation

graduation cap ideasgraduation cap ideas

It's that time of year again when parents start getting teary, our fave #girlbosses give inspirational speeches and weekends become celebration central. Yep, we're talking grad season. After all that hard work, you deserve to look glam while you're walking across the stage. Scroll on for 10 DIY graduation caps you can totally rock.

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1. Mean Girls-inspired: With this iconic quote and hot pink design, you're sure to stand out. Not only does this masterpiece make for amazing photos, but your family and friends will have no problem spotting you in the sea of grads.

2. Simple and Sweet: We love how this grad tied her adventurous spirit into her cap. It's a perfect way to add some character to your graduation day look without going over the top. (via Polka Dot Chair)

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3. The Office-inspired: This is downright perfect for anyone who loves Michael Scott and is looking for some glitter action. You can totally make this graduation cap happen with some glue and washi tape.

4. Friends-inspired ($35):Friends and glitter: Do you really need anything else? We vote no.

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5. Floral: Show off your favorite inspirational quote with a floral cap that'll transform you into a DIY queen.

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6. Disney: We just felt a total rush of nostalgia thanks to this adorable Tangled graduation cap. Go all out in honor of your favorite Disney princess, and get a dose of inspiration at the same time.

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7. Spongebob Squarepants-inspired: School can sometimes feel like it's an eternity and this is a hilarious way to acknowledge your entrance into the real world.

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8. Dunkin' Donuts: Let's face it: This cap is way too relatable to many of us. Show everyone how much you love cold brew with this colorful design.

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9. Future Plans: It's the perfect time to thank those who have helped you attain your dream and celebrate your next stop. Deck out your graduation cap with your favorite shades, or go for your school colors for even more pride.

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10. All About That Degree: If you're super excited to start your new career, pick a grad cap that shows off your degree! We love how minimal and beautiful this blue cap is.

This graduation season, celebrate your hard work with a grad cap that has as much personality as you do. Whether you're totally into Disney or love glitter, these DIY graduation caps are sure to give you some inspiration.

Which DIY grad cap are you rockin' across the stage? Tweet us @BritandCo!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated.

College and high school graduations are just around the corner, and you may be wondering what to get your favorite Gen Z grads. Luckily for you, we compiled a list of 15 fabulous graduation gifts for every price range that are guaranteed to put a smile on your graduate’s face!

Set of 4 Meal Prep Containers

Who doesn’t love pretty Tupperware? Whether your 2024 grad is a gym rat or a library lover, they will definitely find a good use for these air-tight, leak-proof containers.

Benevolence LA New Beginnings Scented Soy Candle

Send them off with this sweet-scented candle that celebrates their achievements, as well as the next steps ahead of them!

A Hundred Other Girlsby Iman Hariri-Kia

This book is like a modern day Devil Wears Prada, and would make the perfect gift for any grad going into journalism, media, or PR — especially if they’re moving to a big city.

Stanley Quencher H2.0

Hydration is key for anyone, especially a new college student that's running between classes, club meetings, and friend hangs! This tumbler will also keep their liquids cold overnight so they don't have to go down the dorm hall in the middle of the night for a fresh refill.

Dagne Dover Mila Repreve® Recycled Polyester Large Toiletry Organizer Bag

If you're sending off a high school grad to communal dorms, they'll definitely benefit from having a compact toiletry bag like this one. This style is particularly nice since it's made from recycled polyester that resists water and debris.

2024 Daily Planner

Using a planner is such an underrated way to stay organized, whether it's prepping for college coursework or adulting stuff like work events, grocery shopping, and plans with friends. This all-in-one daily planner will help your grad keep their ducks in a row with fields for all of life's details.

Honeywell Mini Cool Mist Humidifier

This humidifier, made especially for small rooms and personal spaces (ahem, dorm rooms!) helps maintain humidity levels between 40-60%, which can help relieve congestion and keep the throat and nasal passages hydrated to prevent sickness. This is crucial for soon-to-be college students who may hang around a lot of different people.​

Fresh Sends Flower Bouquet

Flowers are a staple for any major life event, especially a graduation! Fresh Sends is perfect for sending beautiful bouquets for those who live far away, since they ship directly to the recipient's door.

The Beast Mini Blender

This super-effective, high-power portable blender is the perfect size for a dorm room or small apartment, plus it's very aesthetically-pleasing even if it's just sitting on the shelf. It comes equipped with a screw-on lid and straw, too, so your grad can take it on walks and in the car.

Béis The Sport Backpack

Perfect for grads on the go, this bag can hold their water bottle, phone, wallet and so much more when they're trekking across campus.

Loop Quiet Equinox Earplugs

These design-forward earplugs are multipurpose – they block out extra noise for study sessions and sleep time, or even loud parties and concerts! Your grad will appreciate that they come with an easy-to-carry case for keeping them on-hand in unforeseen, noisy situations.

Crush Your Goals Inner Truth Affirmations Deck

For an extra dose of motivation, this 40-count deck of cards will keep them going when times get tough!

Keurig K-Mini Single-Serve K-Cup Pod Coffee Maker

Coffee will ​always ​be a part of any new grad's life. Keep 'em caffeinated with this convenient coffee maker that's compatible with K-Cups for everyday ease.

Hoka Clifton 9 Sneakers

Hokas are undoubtedly the cool girl of running shoes, and they will definitely make your grad hit the pavement smiling, no matter if they're stepping foot on their college campus for the first time or making big moves in a new city.

Great Jones The Starting Lineup

This trio of cookware is such a stylish way to give your recipient's post-grad kitchen an upgrade. All three pieces are oven-safe and dishwasher-friendly to make cleanup a breeze.

Find all of the greatest gifts with Brit + Co!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.

There’s always a bit of an ick factor when you move into a new home — especially if it’s a fixer-upper. When I closed on my home five years ago, the place reeked of cigarette smoke. I had the floors refinished and the walls painted before I moved in, but even then, I couldn’t relax until I gave everything a deep clean. If you’re about to settle into a new space, don’t skip these often-overlooked spots when you're cleaning your home — they make a big difference!

Here are places you should always clean when you move into a new home.

Photo by Kam Idris on Unsplash

Inside Kitchen Cabinets & Drawers

Crumbs, dust, and mystery smudges often get left behind when previous homeowners move out. Wipe with a gentle all-purpose cleaner, then add drawer liners for a fresh, finished look.

Photo by Liliana Drew

The Fridge & Freezer

It always feels good to start with a clean slate in the fridge; after all, you don't want your groceries mingling with someone else's leftovers. Take out all shelves and drawers to soak in warm, soapy water, then wipe down interior walls with a baking soda and water solution.

Photo by Christian Mackie on Unsplash

Bathroom Fixtures

Faucets, handles, and shower heads can harbor buildup or bacteria. Use a vinegar soak on shower heads and a disinfectant spray on all high-touch surfaces.

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Air Vents & Filters

I was living in my home for a year before a friend pointed out that I needed to replace my HVAC filter every 6 months to a year. Now I'm consistent about it. Apparently, dust and allergens can build up fast — especially if the home was vacant for a while. Vacuum vent covers and replace HVAC filters so your new space breathes better.

Photo by cottonbro studio

Light Switches & Doorknobs

These are touched constantly — and rarely cleaned. Go room by room with a disinfecting wipe or spray to wipe down all the switches and knobs.

Photo by Max Vakhtbovycn

Baseboards & Trim

Vacuum your carpets and floors thoroughly, then mop using the right cleaner for your floor type (wood, tile, vinyl, etc.). Don't forget baseboards and trim, which collect dust and scuffs — especially during a move-out and move-in. Use a microfiber cloth and warm, soapy water to clean up dust. I'm love a Magic Eraser to remove tougher marks too.

Photo by Nacho Posse

Washing Machines

Lint, detergent buildup, and even mildew can linger in your washer from previous use. Wipe down the inside of the washer drum, clean the detergent drawer, and vacuum out the dryer lint trap and vent. Run a hot cycle with white vinegar in the washer to freshen things up. Do the same for your dishwasher too!

Be sure to subscribe to our newsletter for more home cleaning and organization ideas!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

As the seasons shift and a long-awaited spring finally arrives, a few things are inevitable: the ground is thawing, the birds are chirping, and graduation ceremonies are right around the corner. In traditional practice, whether your graduation is from high school, college, or beyond, a white graduation dress perfectly complements all your robes and cords.

Instead of letting this unspoken dress code inhibit your sense of style and self-expression, lean into it! When you look good, you feel good — let this mantra ring true on your celebratory day with these white graduation dresses. You’ll find a range of styles, prices, lengths, and more to help you find your perfect match.

Image via Lulus

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!’

Image via Anthropologie

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.

Image via Anthropologie

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.

​Image via Free People

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!

Photo via Anthropologie

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.

Image via Lulus

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.

Image via Reformation

Reformation Catarina Dress ($218)

Short and sweet - enough said.

Image via Revolve

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.

Photo via Free People

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 ;).

Photo via Nordstrom

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.

Photo via Nordstrom

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.

Photo via Nordstrom

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.

Photo via Eloquii

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!!

Image via Showpo

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.

Photo via Eloquii

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.

Photo via Nordstrom

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!

Image via Lisa Says Gah

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.

Image via Peppermayo

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.

Image via Madewell

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.

Tag us with your favorite graduation dresses on Instagram and subscribe to our email newsletter for more fashion inspiration!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.

For every amazing Aldi find, there’s unfortunately one that’s… not so amazing. In fact, Aldi fans are pretty quick to identify the worst products sold at the grocery chain, whether it has to do with taste or overall quality. We scoured the r/Aldi Reddit page and uncovered the top 10 worst Aldi products shoppers say are “horrid,” “garbage,” and even “vile.”

See the 10 "worst" products you’ll definitely want to avoid when shopping at Aldi.

Reddit

1. Frozen Lobster Mac & Cheese

Lobster mac & cheese most certainly should only be eaten fresh – this frozen iteration from Aldi is allegedly not worth the hype. One shopper even said it was "horrid.”

“I thought the lobster mac would be good..." one Redditor commented. "But way too fishy and briney.”

“I still have bad memories from when I bought that lobster mac n cheese," another person said. "Terrible taste, terrible smell. Cannot believe they still carry that garbage.”

“The smell of the lobster Mac and cheese haunts me," one more user confided. "It’s been a year and I still gag when I think about it.”

Gül Işık / PEXELS

2. Sliced Deli Turkey

Deli turkey of any kind can really be hit or miss. According to one Aldi shopper, the grocer's deli turkey is undoubtedly a miss.

"“I bought the deli turkey once and it was slimy and tasted terrible," they wrote. "I might have made two sandwiches just to feel less bad about wasting the food, but I remember throwing the rest out. But the salamis and charcuterie-esque meats are all really good imo.”

Aldi

3. Sweet & Spicy Candied Pecans

Sweet and spicy – or 'swicy,' if you're cool like that – is typically a great flavor combo. One Redditor simply did not care for this Aldi product that incorporates the duo into a nutty snack.

“Sweet and Spicy candied pecans are one of the worst things I’ve ever bought there," they said. "They taste like candy pecans that were dunked in extremely vinegary hot sauce."

Reddit

4. Cauliflower Crackers

This Aldi version of Cheez-Its, essentially, is crafted with cauliflower for a "healthier" take. Anyone who tends to reach for the health-ified versions of certain snacks knows there's a risk of them being absolutely appalling. Well, one Redditor wasn't shy to say these Aldi crackers are “nasty vile things.”

Aldi

5. Toaster Tarts

Aldi shoppers have long debated the quality and taste of the grocer's off-brand Pop-Tarts. In one succinct conclusion, one fan ruled the crust "flavorless and dry," though another shopper countered their point and said that Aldi's version typically has more filling. 👀

Aldi

6. Deli Pickles

Aldi shoppers also have grown to dislike the deli pickles, noting a weird change in their flavor over time.

“The deli pickles used to be amazing and now they taste like they’re contaminated with cleaning products," one Redditor said.

“The ones I got were so mushy and tasteless," another person commented. "So bad.”

Reddit

7. Organic Chicken Lemon & Lavender Bone Broth

Though bone broth can be a great source of protein, Aldi just might have messed up by flavoring their with lemon and lavender.

“This was absolutely disgusting. The smell is god awful," one Redditor said. "The person that came up with this flavor needs to be fired.”

Aldi

8. Crab Rangoon Dip

In theory, this sounds really good, but Aldi shoppers say otherwise.

“We try to not let anything go to waste in our house and will zhuzh up bad meals but that one went into the trash," one person said.

“I’ve not heard a single person say that dip was good lol," another commented.

Aldi

9. Confetti Brownies

These off-brand Cosmic Brownies put shame on the name of the OG, according to Aldi fans. To give you a better idea, one person even called them "a f-cking travesty.” LOL.

"Ugh they are terrible!!” another shopper said.

“Yes! Just threw a box of those away," one more person chimed in. "Like play doh on the top with no taste.”

Aldi

10. Shelf-Stable Tortellini

This packaged pasta seems to be notoriously gross. Some shoppers did note it tastes better in a recipe, rather than by itself. But still, others are disgusted by it.

"I bought mushroom ones. Terrible. Just dreadful," one person said. "They were …tart. And with no mushroom taste whatsoever.”

“It smelled like wet dog,” another user wrote.

“I farted so terribly,” one more person admitted.

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Looking to refresh your dinner routine with meals that are light, flavorful, and effortless to make? Well, consider your search over. These 12 quick and easy dinner recipes can help you spend less time in the kitchen and more time soaking up the season – all while still being delicious and flavorful. From one-pot meals to fresh salads, these dinner ideas make cheffing something up a total breeze.

Scroll on for our 12 favorite easy spring dinners to make this season!

Two Spoons

Spring Mix Salad with Lemon Baked Tofu

Bulked up with plenty of protein-rich tofu and edamame, this is one hearty spring salad you just have to make to believe. Whether you set it out as a starter or make it the main course, it'll look absolutely stunning on you table. (via Two Spoons for Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Sheet-Pan Lemon Chicken, Squash, & Green Beans

Sheet pan recipes will always have our heart, including this extremely painless medley of lemon chicken, squash, and green beans! You could also easily make any iteration of this easy spring dinner by swapping out different proteins, veggies, and seasonings. (via Brit + Co)

Brit + Co

Mango Curry Shrimp

The mango in this curry dish makes it all the more fresh and spring-worthy. You'll forget all about your fave takeout spot once you whip this up! (via Brit + Co)

Brittany Griffin

Chicken Salad Keto Lettuce Wraps

These refreshing lettuce wrap are filled with a creamy blue cheese-infused chicken salad alongside some walnuts and raspberries, making them a great healthy (and no-cook!) option to keep on deck this spring. (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Live Eat Learn

10-Minute Chickpea Salad

In the vein of more no-cook meals, this colorful chickpea salad comes together in a mere 10 minutes – eat it solo, pack it into some tortillas – how ever you eat it, you'll be able to chow down super quick and feel satisfied. (via Live Eat Learn for Brit + Co)

The Original Dish

Sweet Potato Fritters with Dill Yogurt Sauce

Dill is one of our go-to spring flavors, and these yummy sweet potato fritters work it in wonderfully. An easy, homemade yogurt sauce is used to top each fritter with the vibrant tastes of both lemon and dill! Oh, so fresh! (via The Original Dish)

Pink Owl Kitchen

Creamy Garlic Tuscan Salmon

This pan-seared salmon is met with a glorious mix of creamy garlic sauce, spinach, and tomatoes for a flavorful, yet healthy touch. Plus, it's all made in one pan, so there's practically no cleanup time. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Crowded Kitchen

Vegan Lemon Pasta

Packed with lemon, peas, and herbs, this pasta dish truly screams 'springtime.' It's also a great vegan fare to prep if you're hosting a dinner party for pals of all different diets. (via Crowded Kitchen)

The Real Food Dietitians

Apple Broccoli Cauliflower Salad with Lemon

Any time you can combine veggies and fruits, something so delicious comes to light. Case in point: this beautiful salad that's ideal for spring dinners! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Feel Good Foodie

Mushroom & Peas Risotto

Risotto is way easier to make than you think – in fact, this recipe simplifies the process with a quick method to cooking it, so you're not hovering over the stove for nearly an hour waiting to eat! Plus, it packs in a beneficial amount of veggies, thanks to the addition of mushrooms and peas. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Takes Two Eggs

Air Fryer Gochujang Chicken

Air fryer meals are great for spring dinners because it means you simply don't have to fire up the oven and drench your home in more heat! This easy recipe leverages chicken thighs, smothering them in a sweet and spicy gochujang sauce that's loaded with unique flavors. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Rachel Mansfield

Hummus Crunch Salad with Crispy Za’atar Quinoa

Ooh, this one looks too good. Undoubtedly inspired by the Mediterranean diet, this salad is not your ordinary salad. It's stacked with a crunchy topping that truly makes every bite enjoyable, plus some chickpeas and a homemade hummus dressing for added protein! (via Rachel Mansfield)

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