Where To Buy A Graduation Dress

I know, I know, I’m coming at you with the graduation dress inspiration a bit later than we’d all hoped for but life has been hectic lately. Although it’s already peak college graduation season, high schools around here still have a couple more weeks before they cross the stage.

Better late than never—today I’m breaking down the top six places to snag a last-minute dress from. Of course, I’m styling a few favorites and linking a bunch more that are worth checking out. Congratulations to the Class of 2021; may your next adventure be as sweet as the last!

1. Fashion Nova 

Fashion Nova is always one of the first retailers I turn to when I’m in a time crunch. I’ve never had a package from them take longer than four days to deliver which is why I love them so much. Don’t get me wrong, they definitely have some crazy styles on their site, but they have a lot of hidden gems too.

If you’ve been with me for some time, then this first outfit may look a bit familiar. I wore a romper quite similar for my own high school graduation a few years back. When I saw an *almost* identical one on Fashion Nova’s site, I had to grab it. I love rompers, especially for grad parties because you get the look of a dress while having the mobility of shorts. These are so easy to move around in and yet look so classy! This one comes in tons of different colors but white is a classic for the big day. A pair of statement earrings and white heels are all you need to complete this outfit.

Outfit Details— romper: Fashion Nova, heels: Lulus, earrings: Walmart, necklace: The Silver Heron, bracelets: Ana Luisa, rings: Ana Luisa

2. Hello Molly

Hello Molly is another favorite retailer of mine. They have so many cute dresses and while they are definitely a go-to for formals and weddings, they also have tons of white options that could work for graduation season as well. Their dresses are a bit pricier than I typically share but the quality is unmatched. Plus, you can use my code MCKENZIE for an extra 10% off your entire purchase.

3. Windsor

I’ve shared Windsor dresses a gazillion times here on the blog. This retailer specializes in formalwear so it’s no surprise that they have a wide variety of options for the big day. I typically love their long gowns but went for something a bit more relaxed for this occasion.

A white crochet mini dress is perfect for graduation photos. These bustier-style cups and front tie detail are so popular this season. To tie this look together (literally), I’m popping on a pair of white lace-up heels. I’m a sucker for this combo! I definitely recommend a platform heel or chunky wedge for the actual ceremony, but these are perfect for the festivities that follow!

Outfit Details— dress: Windsor, heels: Lulus, earrings: Walmart, necklace: The Silver Heron, bracelets: Ana Luisa, rings: Ana Luisa

4. Princess Polly

If you’re in a time crunch, Princess Polly is definitely the retailer to check out. They have free three-day shipping on orders over $50 and they rarely disappoint. I’ve gathered a few white dresses from here over the years and have loved them all. In fact, the dress I wore for my 50K celebration is from here! Their styles are a bit trendier than your average dress but you’ll be best dressed on stage in one of their pieces. Use my code MCKENZIE20 for an extra 20% off your purchase.

5. SheIn

My go-to for adorable looks on a budget is SheIn! I’ve shopped here for years and as long as you have 7-10 days to wait for your package, you’re in the clear. Read the reviews and look at the customer photos to get a feel for sizing. I’ve gotten so many incredible pieces from here for a fraction of designer costs. Plus, you can save an extra 15% off with my code Q4mckenz15.

My latest favorite from here is this adorable white eyelet lace romper. This one is dress code approved with adorable puff sleeves and a high neckline. Throw in some school spirit with an accent color for your shoes + earrings. I wore this yellow combo when I graduated high school and will likely go the same route when I graduate college too!

Outfit Details— romper: SheIn, heels: SheIn, earrings: Walmart, necklace: The Silver Heron, bracelets: Ana Luisa, rings: Ana Luisa

6.  Lulus

Lulus is a never fail for special occasion dresses. My junior year prom dress was from here as were many of my sorority functions. They have incredible customer service and the most adorable pieces. With high-quality materials, fast shipping, and thousands of reviews it’s hard to be disappointed with a Lulus purchase. I also highly recommend them for affordable heels. Many of my go-to pairs are from here and have lasted me several seasons.

Are you graduating this year? If so congratulations; I hope this post helped you find a last-minute dress OR got you excited for your future big day. I’ve got a lot of bride-to-be’s requesting white dresses too so perhaps you will be seeing more of these posts in the near future. Next up: what to wear to a graduation party coming your way Wednesday! 😉

With love, McKenz

Latest Post: Weekly Wrap Up #21 2021
Related Post: Graduation Dress Inspo From Lulus
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