Oh I don't know...it was so hot at my college graduation that I wore a bathing suit and nice sandles for the ceremony (heels on grass? No way. I'd dig in and fall on my face half way to the podium). Of course I threw on a sundress for pictures once they let us open those monstrously heavy gowns for pictures (well, some of the pictures).

I was very serious about my graduation, don't get me wrong. It was a big deal in my life at the time. But I think that respect is in the attitude, regardless of what you wear. If they really were nice flip flops, it's a style thing, not a respect thing. If that makes any sense.