The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (2024)

Table of Contents
Lilly Pulitzer Judelyn Eyelet Cotton Minidress Lilly Pulitzer Judelyn Eyelet Cotton Minidress STAUD Wells Cotton Poplin A-Line Midi-Dress STAUD Wells Cotton Poplin A-Line Midi-Dress Treasure & Bond Ruched Side Sleeveless Dress Treasure & Bond Ruched Side Sleeveless Dress The Somerset Collection by Anthropologie The Somerset Maxi Dress: Cutwork Edition The Somerset Collection by Anthropologie The Somerset Maxi Dress: Cutwork Edition Squareneck A-line dress in stretch linen Squareneck A-line dress in stretch linen Kobi Halperin Sabrina Asymmetric Chiffon Knee-Length Dress Kobi Halperin Sabrina Asymmetric Chiffon Knee-Length Dress Pintuck Detail Mini Dress Pintuck Detail Mini Dress Theory Sleeveless Flared Minidress Theory Sleeveless Flared Minidress Amanda Uprichard Contessa Dress Amanda Uprichard Contessa Dress Bardot Bardot Lina Lace Sheath Dress Bardot Bardot Lina Lace Sheath Dress WOOSEA Pleated Short Sleeves co*cktail Dress WOOSEA Pleated Short Sleeves co*cktail Dress Sachin & Babi Alanna Strapless Embroidered Mini Dress Sachin & Babi Alanna Strapless Embroidered Mini Dress Dress the Population Dress the Population Catalina Fit & Flare co*cktail Dress Dress the Population Dress the Population Catalina Fit & Flare co*cktail Dress Black Halo Pabla Mini Dress Black Halo Pabla Mini Dress Anisa Cut-Out Mini Dress Anisa Cut-Out Mini Dress WAYF WAYF Convertible Strapless Dress WAYF WAYF Convertible Strapless Dress Pearl textured dress Pearl textured dress Le Jean Le Jean Selena Dress Le Jean Le Jean Selena Dress Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Audrine Ruched Cutout Bodycon Dress Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Audrine Ruched Cutout Bodycon Dress NORMA KAMALI Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey mini dress NORMA KAMALI Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey mini dress FAQs

Chic styles to wear under your grad gown.

By Lauren Hubbard
The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (1)

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You've spent years working toward your graduation, so it's only natural that you want to mark the occasion by looking your very best. And when it comes to choosing a style to pair with your grad gown (not to mention one that you'll be seeing for years in all of the graduation day pictures) it's hard to do better than a classic white dress. Whether you're looking to flounce around in something festive or you need a more conservative look for your last be school function, we've gathered up some can't fail white dresses to wear to graduation.

Lacy Layers

Lilly Pulitzer Judelyn Eyelet Cotton Minidress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (2)

Lacy Layers

Lilly Pulitzer Judelyn Eyelet Cotton Minidress

Tiered layers of eyelet and ruffles make this dress (sizes 00—16) a mix of femme and fun.

Classic Midi

STAUD Wells Cotton Poplin A-Line Midi-Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (3)

Classic Midi

STAUD Wells Cotton Poplin A-Line Midi-Dress

Sophisticated seaming give the bodice of this A-line midi (sizes 00—16) a classical feel.

Shape Defining

Treasure & Bond Ruched Side Sleeveless Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (4)

Shape Defining

Treasure & Bond Ruched Side Sleeveless Dress

Ruching along the sides of this sleeveless, crossover-style dress (sizes XXS—XL) makes it perfect for flattering curves.

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Fan-Favorite

The Somerset Collection by Anthropologie The Somerset Maxi Dress: Cutwork Edition

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (5)

Fan-Favorite

The Somerset Collection by Anthropologie The Somerset Maxi Dress: Cutwork Edition

Scrolling, lace-like cutwork add some extra elegance to this white version of the fan-favorite Somerset maxi (sizes XXS—XL.)

The streamlined A-line cut of this linen blend dress (sizes 00—24) mean it will not only look gorgeous on grad day, but for all sorts of events for years to come.

Goddess Vibes

Kobi Halperin Sabrina Asymmetric Chiffon Knee-Length Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (7)

Goddess Vibes

Kobi Halperin Sabrina Asymmetric Chiffon Knee-Length Dress

Bring some goddess energy with with floaty, layered chiffon one-shoulder dress (sizes XS—XXL.)

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Casual Chic

Pintuck Detail Mini Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (8)

Casual Chic

Pintuck Detail Mini Dress

Now 20% Off

For a more casual look that still captures the feel of the day, opt for this short sleeved mini dress (sizes 2—22.)

Minimalist Mini

Theory Sleeveless Flared Minidress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (9)

Minimalist Mini

Theory Sleeveless Flared Minidress

You'll want to wear this chic flared mini dress (sizes 00—12) everywhere over the summer. (Bonus: it has pockets!)

Long Sleeves

Amanda Uprichard Contessa Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (10)

Long Sleeves

Amanda Uprichard Contessa Dress

If arm coverage is a concern, this long sleeved option (sizes XS—XL) offers plenty without sacrificing cool-factor.

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Lovely in Lace

Bardot Bardot Lina Lace Sheath Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (11)

Lovely in Lace

Bardot Bardot Lina Lace Sheath Dress

Now 61% Off

A lace overlay gives this strappy sheath (sizes XS—XL) a special touch that's perfect for your big day.

Cute and Comfy

WOOSEA Pleated Short Sleeves co*cktail Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (12)

Cute and Comfy

WOOSEA Pleated Short Sleeves co*cktail Dress

Now 27% Off

All the comfort of your favorite t-shirt with a graduation day ready twist, thanks to the swishy pleated skirt on this short sleeved number (sizes S—XXL.)

Formal Mini Dress

Sachin & Babi Alanna Strapless Embroidered Mini Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (13)

Formal Mini Dress

Sachin & Babi Alanna Strapless Embroidered Mini Dress

Now 30% Off

The pared back shape of this understated strapless mini dress (sizes 0—14) gets a special-occasion update with demure floral embroidery.

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Spin-worthy

Dress the Population Dress the Population Catalina Fit & Flare co*cktail Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (14)

Spin-worthy

Dress the Population Dress the Population Catalina Fit & Flare co*cktail Dress

Fitted at the waist and loose through the skirt, this dress (sizes XXS—XXL) was built for a grad photo twirl.

Shoulder Detail

Black Halo Pabla Mini Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (15)

Shoulder Detail

Black Halo Pabla Mini Dress

A ruffle over one shoulder adds an extra festive touch to this sheath dress.

Anisa Cut-Out Mini Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (16)

Anisa Cut-Out Mini Dress

Sneaky cutouts at the sides add some edge to this otherwise understated white mini (sizes 0—20.)

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Flawless Fit

WAYF WAYF Convertible Strapless Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (17)

Flawless Fit

WAYF WAYF Convertible Strapless Dress

Now 50% Off

A smocked back gives this strapless dress (sizes S—XL) a tailored-like fit.

Pearl Embellishment

Pearl textured dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (18)

Pearl Embellishment

Pearl textured dress

Now 31% Off

Up the glitz factor of your grad look with this mini covered in delicate pearl embellishments and accented by fun fringe.

Modern Style

Le Jean Le Jean Selena Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (19)

Modern Style

Le Jean Le Jean Selena Dress

If you're looking for a style that's both modern and ladylike, look no further than this button-down mini (sizes XS—L) with three-quarter length sleeves.

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Artful Ruching

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Audrine Ruched Cutout Bodycon Dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (20)

Artful Ruching

Chiara Boni La Petite Robe Audrine Ruched Cutout Bodycon Dress

Now 40% Off

Add some interest to a simple silhouette with some artful ruching, like the accents on this high-necked dress (sizes 2—18.)

One-Shoulder

NORMA KAMALI Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey mini dress

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (21)

One-Shoulder

NORMA KAMALI Diana one-shoulder ruched stretch-jersey mini dress

The combination of ruching and body hugging fabric makes this dress (sizes XXS—XL) flattering for athletic builds and curvy girls alike.

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (22)

Lauren Hubbard

Writer

Lauren Hubbard is a freelance writer and Town & Country contributor who covers beauty, shopping, entertainment, travel, home decor, wine, and co*cktails.

The Best White Dresses to Wear to Graduation (2024)

FAQs

What is the perfect dress for graduation? ›

White Lace Dress

A white dress is a popular pick for graduations.

What does the white dress mean for graduation? ›

New Beginnings

Graduation also marks a fresh start. White dresses symbolize the blank canvas upon which new adventures and experiences will be painted. It's as if each graduate is saying, "Bring on the color, life! I'm ready for you."

What color should graduation dresses be? ›

#1. White - Given that it is a symbol of a fresh start, white is the perfect color dress to choose for graduation as you prepare for life after college. Not only that, but it's a timeless shade that will match lots of other colors, so it certainly won't clash with your robe.

Can you wear white as a guest to graduation? ›

Is it okay for me to wear a white dress to my cousin's graduation or should she be the one wearing white? Any color dress you want to wear to a graduation is perfectly acceptable, just keep it tasteful and modest and have fun!

What should a female guest wear to graduation? ›

Go with a nice dress, jumpsuits, or fun co-ord set. 2. Wear something comfortable - Graduations are usually pretty long, so you will want to wear something comfortable. Try to steer clear of anything heavy, itchy, or too tight!

What not to wear under graduation gown? ›

Avoid brightly coloured bottoms if you choose to wear dress pants or a longer skirt, as they can be seen below the hem of the gown and stick to darker colours. For pants and skirts that are shorter in length and can't be seen, a bright colour is acceptable.

Do I have to wear a white dress for graduation? ›

That's both great — you can wear whatever you want! — and intimidating. This is a moment that, for most of us, is preserved in posterity, both in memories and in pictures, so the choice you make may follow you for the rest of your life. No pressure!

Do girls wear white dresses for graduation? ›

History + Outfit Inspiration. Look around at any high school or university commencement and you will see many girls in white dresses. People wear white during graduation for the same reason people wear white on their wedding day — because everyone else has been doing it for years.

Can moms wear white to graduation? ›

GRADUATION DRESSES FOR MOMS OF THE GRADUATE

Black and white are always safe choices, but feel free to experiment with other colors as well. If you're feeling bold, try a patterned dress or even something in in a bright color.

What is the most popular graduation dress color? ›

Some of the best color choices include black, white, peach, blue, silver, and grey. Regardless of the color you choose, remember to align it with the latest trends and your personal style. Make sure you consider the color of your graduation robe to ensure the color of your dress doesn't clash with it.

What is the most popular graduation colors? ›

Gold, the most common accent color in graduation regalia, is used broadly to represent academic excellence and achievement, particularly in the fields of science and mathematics. It's also used to represent honor societies and high grade point averages.

What color is the most common graduation dress? ›

Primarily black, white, or grey to create a timeless and elegant look. These colours also tend to coordinate well with most graduation gown colours. Most graduation gowns will come in black, or black with coloured streaks referring to individual faculties.

Can I wear black for graduation? ›

Wearing black to a graduation ceremony is generally acceptable and considered a classic choice. It's a versatile color that exudes elegance and sophistication. However, it's important to consider the dress code or guidelines provided by your educational institution for graduation ceremonies.

What do ladies wear under graduation gown? ›

Due to the low-neckline of the graduation gowns, female graduates usually wear a scoop-neck or v-neck or dress, or scoop/v -neck blouse with pants or skirts underneath the gowns.

Can you wear jeans to graduation? ›

Graduation is a formal event. You should wear smart clothing beneath your gown. If you are to wear a shirt then a tie must also be worn. Smart but comfortable shoes are important; no jeans or trainers.

Are you supposed to dress nice for graduation? ›

Graduates should wear smart, neat and professional attire (formal evening wear is typically too dressy). Footwear should be smart but comfortable, as you will need to be able to walk across the stage and stand for short periods.

What are parents supposed to wear to graduation? ›

A good rule of thumb for an appropriate outfit is something you would normally wear to work or in business. Your outfit should be smart, neat, and polished. Think business casual or professional, and you will be on the right track.

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