31 White Graduation Dresses That Stand Out (Even if Everyone's Wearing White) (2024)

31 White Graduation Dresses That Stand Out (Even if Everyone's Wearing White) (1)

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Good news: the "white dresses only" grad dress code actually doesn't have to be a vibe kill. It's actually the greatest change to let your personal style shine bright amongst a sea of other white graduation dresses, whether that's with jumbo ruffles, intricate lace, asymmetrical necklines or bow detailing.

Now comes the fun part: shopping for a dress for your special day that's cute, unique, and dress code-approved. We put together a collection of ivory mini and midi dresses so chic that you'd still want to wear them, dress code or not, long after your college or high school graduation ceremony. The ones that we found have photo-worthy details so stylish that you just might end up rewearing your dress to a summer party or birthday dinner. Oh, and did we mention that most of these picks are under $150?

Below, our favorite white graduation dresses for standing out in the crowd on the big day.

Our Top Picks

A simple shift is ideal for wearing underneath your graduation gown. Plus, if you ask us, the single ruffled sleeve is peak elegance.

2

Windsor Kristen Faux Pearl Mini Party Dress

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2

Windsor Kristen Faux Pearl Mini Party Dress

Emulate big Ariana Grande energy in this darling pearl-dotted mini with spaghetti straps.

3

Sophie Rue Carina Mini Dress in White

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3

Sophie Rue Carina Mini Dress in White

Now 70% Off

You'll want a dress with a cute tie-back detail for all those photos of the back of your hand-decorated grad cap.

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4

Lulus Absolutely Stunning White Lace Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress

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4

Lulus Absolutely Stunning White Lace Off-the-Shoulder Midi Dress

Calling all hopeless romantics — this lace dress will make your graduation day feel worthy of a Jane Austen novel.

5

Lulus Flirtatious Fit White Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

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5

Lulus Flirtatious Fit White Puff Sleeve Mini Dress

Now 71% Off

You won't have to worry about any fabric poking out from under your buttoned grad gown thanks to this V-neckline.

6

Show Me Your Mumu Claire Mini Dress

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6

Show Me Your Mumu Claire Mini Dress

You can't go wrong with a square neckline and a flirty skater skirt. P.S. The waist and shoulder bows are detachable.

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7

Lulus Gimme the Twist White Twist-Front Bodycon Mini Dress

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7

Lulus Gimme the Twist White Twist-Front Bodycon Mini Dress

Can't go wrong with a classic wrap. The front twist details helps it stand out from other white graduation dresses.

8

Showpo Karalyn Mini Pearl Dress

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8

Showpo Karalyn Mini Pearl Dress

The tulle detail and floating pearls put a modern twist on the classic white dress.

9

Endless Summer Cross Of Sunlight Mini

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9

Endless Summer Cross Of Sunlight Mini

Attention, cottagecore cuties — this is definitely the dress for you. It's breezy with a hint of fashion.

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10

Windsor Friendly Flirt Eyelet Mini Dress

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Windsor Friendly Flirt Eyelet Mini Dress

11

ECOWISH V-Neck Spaghetti Strap Lace Mini Dress

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11

ECOWISH V-Neck Spaghetti Strap Lace Mini Dress

Now 13% Off

Keep things lightweight and breathable for an outdoor graduation ceremony where it feels like full-blown summer, even though it’s only May.

12

superdown Kasey Belted Blazer Dress

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12

superdown Kasey Belted Blazer Dress

Now 24% Off

Much like Harry Styles and Taylor Swift, this sleek blazer dress will never go out of style.

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13

Princess Polly Masen Mini Dress White

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13

Princess Polly Masen Mini Dress White

Now 75% Off

Future fashion majors, go ultra-trendy with an homage to the Y2K halter dress.

14

Editor's Pick

Meshki Adeline Rose Halter Mini Dress

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14

Editor's Pick

Meshki Adeline Rose Halter Mini Dress

Now 13% Off

The simple rosette and delicate keyhole cutout both add a bit of high fashion magic to this bodycon dress.

15

Princess Polly Curve Fauci Mini Dress

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15

Princess Polly Curve Fauci Mini Dress

Now 69% Off

The ruched detailing gives texture to this otherwise simple & feminine mini.

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16

Love, Bonito Cindy Textured Tie Back Dress

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Love, Bonito Cindy Textured Tie Back Dress

If you prefer simple silhouettes and comfortable fabrics, this tie-back dress is a great low-key option to wear with your cap and gown.

17

David's Bridal Long Sleeve Chiffon Sweetheart Mini a-Line

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17

David's Bridal Long Sleeve Chiffon Sweetheart Mini a-Line

These dreamy sleeves are unmatched in sophistication. Show them off in the photos where you're tossing your cap in the air.

18

Petal & Pup Tallie Button Up Mini Dress

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18

Petal & Pup Tallie Button Up Mini Dress

Now 60% Off

Add a touch of boho flair to your all-white ensemble with this statement lace and embroidery.

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19

White Fox Boutique Made You Famous Blazer Dress

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White Fox Boutique Made You Famous Blazer Dress

Rock a blazer dress, 'cause getting that diploma/degree means business.

20

Hello Molly Something About You Dress

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Hello Molly Something About You Dress

If you're going for a more dressed-up, celebratory vibe, sequins will help you achieve that in a snap.

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Kelsey Stiegman

Senior Style Editor

Kelsey is Seventeen.com's fashion expert and resident Harry Potter nerd. At the office, she spends her day writing about style, beauty, and literally every move Kylie Jenner makes. On the weekends, you can find her sifting through vintage shops and hunting for the perfect burger. Follow her on Instagram at @klstieg.

31 White Graduation Dresses That Stand Out (Even if Everyone's Wearing White) (35)

Samantha Olson

Assistant News Editor

Sam is an assistant news editor at Cosmo, covering all things pop culture, entertainment, and celebrity news. She previously covered those same topics along with health, lifestyle, and beauty at Seventeen. When she isn't draping her cheeks in blush, you can probably find her live-tweeting awards shows or making SwiftToks.

31 White Graduation Dresses That Stand Out (Even if Everyone's Wearing White) (36)

Hannah Oh

Assistant Shopping Editor

Hannah is the assistant shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, covering all things from cute apartment decor to trendy fashion finds, TikTok products that are actually worth your $$$, and the perfect gift to buy for your boyfriend's mom. She previously wrote for Seventeen and CR Fashion Book. Follow her on Instagram for hot takes on red carpet fashion and unhinged updates on the books she’s reading on the train.

31 White Graduation Dresses That Stand Out (Even if Everyone's Wearing White) (2024)

FAQs

Why does everyone wear a white dress for graduation? ›

White graduation dresses can be traced back to an educational milestone in the 19th century. They were adopted as a symbol of purity and new beginnings for young women completing their studies. Today, they continue to convey a sense of youthful innocence and commencement into adulthood.

Does it matter what color dress you wear to graduation? ›

If you're graduating in the spring, I'd recommend choosing a dress in a spring-y or summer-y solid color, or a bright, fun floral or other print. If you are graduating in the fall or winter, choose a dress in a darker solid color (but something still colorful — don't just default to black!) or a darker floral print.

Are you not supposed to wear white to a graduation? ›

White is perfectly acceptable to wear to graduations. The color white represents purity and goodness, as well as a clean slate. White is one of the most suitable colors for graduates who are starting fresh in life or their new careers (after graduation).

Are you supposed to wear white under graduation gown? ›

Unless your school has a strict dress code, wear whatever you like. You will probably be wearing a graduation robe, so whatever you have on underneath will likely not be seen during the ceremony.

Is white dress OK for graduation? ›

Anyone can wear a white dress to graduation, it's a timeless and classic look that never goes out of style. It's important to wear what makes you feel confident and beautiful on this special day.

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.

Is it OK not to wear a dress at graduation? ›

No, you don't have to. I wore pants for my high school graduation and a dress for my college graduation. I liked both outfits very much and I wasn't harassed by anyone for either. Since you are wearing a Graduation Gown - it really doesn't matter what you wear underneath.

What is the best color to wear for graduation? ›

Wear White or Light colored outfits for a classic look

For a timeless and classic look, outfits with light colors and tones tend to work well, as they will never go out of fashion. Graduation is a joyous and celebratory occasion, so I'd aim for bright and uplifting colors to match!

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 should you not wear to graduation? ›

Being Underdressed or Overdressed

Clothes that are too formal, or not formal enough, will make you feel out of place when you should feel relaxed. Wearing jeans to your college graduation probably isn't a smart choice, but a ball gown isn't quite right, either. Aim for business or business casual for the ceremony.

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 does white graduation mean? ›

White. This formal and clean shade often honors graduates in the Humanities and Arts. The Music Honor Society, French National Honor Society, Alpha Kappa Mu, and Sigma Theta Tau also wear white cords. White symbolizes purity, spirituality, and possibility.

What does it mean to graduate in white? ›

The white gown symbolizes hard work and triumph, and the dedication the student put in throughout her or his high school history.

Is it OK to wear a black dress for graduation? ›

If your school doesn't have a commencement dress code, you can pretty much wear whatever you want! Feel free to express your own personal style under your gown in a pretty and polished way. That means you can wear anything from floral dresses and little black dresses to sleek blazers, pantsuits, jumpsuits, and rompers.

What color should a woman wear to graduation? ›

For women, a chic dress or a skirt and blouse combination in a flattering silhouette is a timeless choice. Opt for classic colors like black, navy, or soft pastels. Choose a dress style that flatters your body shape and makes you feel confident. Opt for a knee-length or midi dress that is appropriate for the occasion.

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