The Budget Babe | Affordable Fashion & Style Blog

Ask BB: The Best Dresses for Graduation

I'm graduating from a university and I wanted to know if you could give suggestions on graduation dresses? —Banke

When considering what to wear to your college graduation, keep in mind the following:


  • Where will the ceremony take place?

  • Will I be wearing a gown?

  • What's the weather going to be like?

  • What events will I be attending immediately after the ceremony?


Once you know the answers to these questions, you can pick the best dress for the day. Generally this will will mean something just above the knee in a breathable fabric, possibly with pockets for your cell phone (give other essentials to family members to hold on to so you don't have to fuss with a purse).

You'll probably be taking lots of photos after the ceremony and possibly heading to a luncheon or other event, so dress nicely and you won't have to worry about doing a quick-change. There might not be time.

Another thing to consider is your shoes as this might be the only part of your outfit that actually shows if you're wearing a gown. If the ceremony or seating will be on a lawn or grassy area, consider a low wedge or cute flats. A bit of a heel always looks best with those awful graduation gowns! Make sure your shoes are comfy enough to walk in - you don't want to tumble while accepting your diploma.

Here are some outfit ideas featuring dresses under $100:

Outfit idea 1: Chic sophistication

Graduation outfit idea

Dress, Bracelet, Shoes, Nail Polish

Outfit idea 2: Fresh and fun

Graduation outfit idea

Dress, Wedges, Necklace

Outfit idea 3: Playfully polished

Graduation outfit idea

Dress, Necklace, Shoes

Got advice for Banke? Let her know in the comments!

Target Teams with Designer Phillip Lim for A Fall Collection


Target announced it is collaborating with NYC-darling Phillip Lim on an exclusive collection for women and men debuting September 15. I can hear the squeals of glee already!

3.1 Phillip Lim for Target will feature a range of apparel and accessories, including shoes, bags and travel accessories, priced from $19.99 to $299.99 for apparel and $19.99 to $59.99 for accessories.

The collection will be "rooted in a classic fall palette of neutral tones and prints." Expect to see stand-out bags, dresses and a trench coat for women, and shoes and a leather moto jacket for men. Travel accessories, such as a duffle and multipurpose pouches, round out this collection for on-to-go gals and guys.


Philip Lim for Target


To follow the buzz on Twitter, use hashtag #PhillipLimForTarget. 3.1 Phillip Lim for Target will be available Sept. 15 at most Target stores and Target.com.

Who's skipping lunch to save up for this?