June 2, 2022

Your First Summer of Freedom

Kevin Kosanovich

Kevin holds a Ph.D. in American studies and is an expert in American cultural history and hip-hop. He is the Senior Content Manager at StockX.

We’ve curated some of the best products to help the new grad enjoy their first summer of freedom.

We’ve curated some of the best products to help the new grad enjoy their first summer of freedom.

No more pencils, no more books, no more teacher’s dirty looks – graduation day has come, and with it a newfound sense of freedom. It’s also a time to enjoy one last opportunity to take some time for yourself before the responsibilities of your next chapter kick in. Whether you (or your favorite grad) are planning a vacation at the beach, working on your golf game, or getting back to your gaming roots, we have the right mix of items for the recent grad to take full advantage of summer days without too many expectations.  

Nintendo Switch (OLED) HEGSKABAA Neon Red/Neon Blue

The first summer post-graduation has arrived, and it’s time to take some time to decompress. Catching up on your gaming with the Nintendo Switch OLED is an excellent way to relax. Unlike other gaming systems, the Nintendo Switch is versatile – you can play on the console at home, on your TV, or take it with you on the go. So no matter what you, or your recently graduated loved one, choose to do this summer, the Switch will be along for the ride.   

Crocs Pollex Clog by Salehe Bembury Urchin

Crocs are the footwear embodiment of total freedom – a comfortable, never-fail, non-judgemental sartorial companion. And as a newly-minted grad, you should take full advantage of your newfound freedom with the leveled-up Crocs x Salehe Bembury Pollex Clog. Featuring a dramatic exo-skeletal look, and fingerprint-like concave ridges throughout its foam construction, the Bembury Pollex Clog will let you proclaim your hard-won freedom in style.

Supreme Five Boroughs Towel Black

Now that you’re no longer tied to Blackboard, office hours with your professor, or assignment due dates, it would be a great idea to hit the beach – the pool, the lake, or even your rooftop. And if you’re looking for a little sun, a swim, or both, the Supreme Five Boroughs Towel is the smart choice. The all-cotton towel with woven Supreme logo and borough names lets you represent your post-grad freedom in true, all-city fashion. 

Eric Emanuel EE Basic Short Antique White/Black

It’s the summer and you’ve graduated. Now’s the perfect time to ditch the pants. Grab a pair of Eric Emanuel’s EE Basic Short and stay cool while the temps rise. This iconic pair of mesh shorts come in creamy-white with a black and orange interlocking “EE” logo. Show off that you earned your degree, and make the smart choice when it comes to shorts. If you’re looking for the perfect gift for a grad other than yourself, EE’s brand is one of the hottest in the industry, and the neutrality of this color makes it a perfect choice for anyone.       

Casablanca Memphis Icon T-shirt Green

The summer after graduating is all about rest and relaxation. This moment is the perfect time to flex some Casablanca apres-sport aesthetic – a balance between luxury and leisurewear, comfort and elegance. The buzzing brand’s Memphis Icon T-shirt features a kaleidoscope-like graphic on the chest, ultimately revealing a table tennis racquet beneath a pink Casablanca logo. Be sure to let everyone know that the graphic references the Milan’s Memphis movement of the 1980s, and 1990s Japanese Retrofuturism to flex that diploma, too.

Jordan 1 Retro Low Golf Chicago

Thanks to culture-shifting brands like Malbon and Bogey Boys, golf is experiencing a style renaissance. The new attention paid to style extends to golf shoes, with sneaker culture replacing the old dress shoe look. And it doesn’t get more classic than the Air Jordan 1 Chicago colorway. Lace up your pair of AJ1 Retro Low Golf Chicago, and never, ever think about laying up. 

Burberry Vintage Check Bucket Hat Brown

Sometimes the ultimate expression of freedom is to be seen without being seen. When all you want to do is sit back and relax while you’re out and about, the Burberry Vintage Check Bucket Hat comes in clutch. Pull the hat down to block out the sun or any unwanted looks, but the instantly recognizable check pattern will ensure that you still get your shine.