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50 Graduation Cap Designs That Are Pure Genius

It's the perfect way to let your personality shine!

By Shelby Deering
graduation cap ideas
Christopher Evans//Getty Images

Every item on this page was chosen by an editor from The Pioneer Woman. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

Graduation is more than just crossing the stage—it’s your moment to shine! And what better way to celebrate than by giving your cap a little extra flair? A great graduation playlist and a stylish outfit can show off your personality, but a decorated cap adds the perfect finishing touch.

Whether you’re the graduate or crafting a cap as a gift for someone special, there are endless ways to make it unique. If you're feeling creative, there are plenty of fun and easy DIY ideas ahead. Not the crafty type? No problem! You can opt for printable toppers, premade designs, or even commission a pro to customize the topper of your dreams. From flowers and photos to inspirational quotes, favorite movies, or a bold statement about how excited you are to be done—the decorating possibilities are endless. Get ready to let your creativity soar (just like your cap will at the end of the ceremony)!

For more great graduation ideas:

1

DIY 'Hi Mom' Graduation Cap

graduation cap ideas hi mom
Studio DIY!

Show your love and appreciation with a personalized "Hi Mom" cap! This DIY design lets you add a unique touch to your special day and gives your family a fun shout-out.

Get the tutorial at Studio DIY!.

2

Photo Graduation Cap

Photo Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

A picture is worth a thousand words—so why not turn your cap into a family scrapbook? Customize it with your favorite family photos, your name, and graduating year.

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3

Custom Rhinestone Graduation Cap

Custom Rhinestone Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

Add some sparkle to your graduation day with a custom rhinestone cap! Work with the seller to choose your design, color scheme, and even rhinestoned logos or words that reflect your style. It’s the perfect way to shine bright as you celebrate your big achievement!

4

Pet Graduation Cap

Pet Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

Calling all pet lovers! Send in your pet’s breed and name, and get a one-of-a-kind cap featuring adorable cartoon versions of your fur babies. It’s a fun way to show off your love for your pets while adding some extra personality to your grad look.

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5

Custom Photo Memorial Pin

Custom Photo Memorial Pin
Credit: Etsy

Honor loved ones who can't be with you on your special day with a custom photo memorial pin. Personalize it with a cherished photo and keep their memory close as you cross the stage.

6

Embroidered Floral Graduation Cap

Embroidered Floral Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

Bring a touch of elegance to your big day with this pretty machine-embroidered floral cap. It can be personalized with base fabric and a quote of your choice.

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7

Custom School Graduation Cap

Custom School Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

Whether you're graduating high school or college, this personalized mortarboard is the perfect way to show your school spirit. Choose things like background color, lettering, and glitter, then send the seller your logo and name so she can work her magic.

8

Dog Graduation Hat

Dog Graduation Hat
Credit: Etsy

On graduation day, it's a safe bet that no one is prouder of you than your parents—but your pup might be a close second! Have your furry friend join in on the fun with their own adorable cap.

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9

Graduation Cap Bow

Graduation Cap Bow
Credit: Etsy

For a fun twist on traditional cap decor, add a darling bow to your graduation cap! It’s a simple yet charming way to show off your unique style while keeping things celebratory.

10

'Change the World' Graduation Cap

'Change the World' Graduation Cap
Credit: Zazzle

Now that you're equipped with years of knowledge and critical thinking, it's your turn to change the world! Reflect that sentiment in a watercolor-inspired design on your cap that can be customized with your name, year, school, and photo design.

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11

'I Did It!' Graduation Cap

'I Did It!' Graduation Cap
Credit: Walmart

Channel the spirit of strength and resilience with this Rosie the Riveter topper. While “We can do it” is the famous catchphrase, graduation day is all about celebrating the hard work and dedication you put in to get here.

12

Modern Photo Overlay Graduation Cap

Modern Photo Overlay Graduation Cap
Now 15% Off
Credit: Zazzle

Don't let that graduation photoshoot go to waste! Display your celebratory snaps on top of your graduation cap with this custom photo overlay, which also features your name and year.

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13

SpongeBob Graduation Cap

SpongeBob Graduation Cap
Credit: Walmart

Order up! Anyone who grew up watching SpongeBob SquarePants will instantly get this funny graduation cap inspired by the show's iconic time cards.

14

'She Believed She Could' Graduation Cap

'She Believed She Could' Graduation Cap
Credit: glittermoms

This glittery black cap featuring beautiful faux florals in shades of pink and white will make anyone feel special on their big day. Reviewers love how responsive this designer is, and she offers plenty of room for customization.

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15

Florals and Photos Graduation Cap

Florals and Photos Graduation Cap
Now 15% Off
Credit: Zazzle

This sweet cap is made of memories—literally! Choose three favorite photos of you and your friends and family to include on this fun floral topper.

16

'With God, All Things Are Possible' Graduation Cap

'With God, All Things Are Possible' Graduation Cap
Credit: Amazon

Express your gratitude and faith with this glittery black cap featuring colorful flowers and a beautiful quote: "With God, all things are possible."

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17

Taylor Swift Eras Graduation Cap

Taylor Swift Eras Graduation Cap
Credit: TheDuwelDesignCo

Celebrate entering your graduation era with this chic cap topper featuring a color block design. It's printable so it makes a great last-minute choice!

18

Baseball Graduation Cap

Baseball Graduation Cap
Now 20% Off
Credit: Zazzle

This one is for all the baseball players or fans out there! Knock it out of the park with this cute cap featuring a baseball-inspired design, your name, and your class year on a tiny jersey.

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19

'I Chose My Path' Graduation Cap

'I Chose My Path' Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

This pretty custom cap is such a sweet choice for anyone who feels God guided their journey through school. You can personalize details like the hairstyle as well as the hair, skin, dress, shoes, and gown color.

20

'Holy Cow!' Graduation Cap

'Holy Cow!' Graduation Cap
Credit: Etsy

This might be the most a-moo-sing idea we've seen yet! Featuring cute spots and a fun pink font, this topper comes with double-sided adhesive so you can easily apply it to your cap.

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graduation cap ideas
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