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32 Cheap (But Expensive-Looking) Grad Dresses Under $100

Photo-Illustration: The Strategist; Photos: Retailers

You’ve sat through your last exam, secured your cap and gown, and stocked up on bottles of bubbly to celebrate your status as a newly minted graduate — that degree is so close, you can almost taste it. But before you can walk across the stage to accept your diploma, there’s one last task to accomplish: finding the perfect graduation dress, one that will look pretty and polished for photo shoots with your friends but also feel easy and comfortable while sitting through a potentially hours-long ceremony. Whether you’re on the hunt for a traditional white dress or want something a little more out of the box, we’ve rounded up all manner of slips, sheaths, and skater dresses to get you looking and feeling your best for your momentous milestone.

Bring a little sparkle to the proceedings in this all-over sequin dress.

This short and sweet lace sheath features a festive pom-pom fringe.

The cutouts on this ribbed Guess dress are a fun take on the cold-shoulder trend.

This versatile dress can be worn with a square neckline or off the shoulder to show off your sash.

Take a closer look and see if you can spot the polka dots on this textured jacquard dress.

An easy-breezy sundress ensures you won’t get too hot under your graduation gown.

This ivory sweetheart dress is complemented with embroidery details and tiered ruffles.

Or if you prefer a more sleek and streamlined look, try this knee-length rib-knit dress.

Once graduation is over, this pretty lace sheath would also work perfectly for afternoon tea or garden parties.

A straightforward A-line silhouette is updated with subtle waist cutouts.

The embellished cape sleeves on this fluttery wrap dress are designed to make a statement.

Your new life as a young professional is about to begin. Dress the part in this wrap dress with flared sleeves and a blazerlike notched collar.

Or go full badass businesswoman in a powerful pantsuit.

Made from a stretchy, comfortable fabric, the draping on this dress is ultra-curve-enhancing.

This long-sleeved lace mini is finished with a scalloped hemline.

After graduation, take this linen sundress with you on your summer vacation to Sicily.

This Lavish Alice dress comes with a matching belt that cinches your waist and adds visual interest.

A flowy chiffon dress is topped off with a sequined waist for a touch of glamour.

The flared hem on this ruffled minidress makes it fun to twirl around in.

Hop on the corset trend with this curve-skimming Floret Studios dress featuring a structured bodice.

Or if boning is a bit too Bridgerton for you, the tie-front waist on this eyelet dress is slightly more understated.

Ruched detailing and mixed-media fabrics elevate this simple slip.

This cotton poplin frock is casual enough for everyday wear after you’ve tossed your cap in the air — just add sneakers and sunglasses.

This fit-and-flare dress comes with convenient pockets to stash your phone in during the ceremony.

If you’re not a fan of all-white dresses but your school has a dress code for graduation, a blush-pink tie-dye pattern adds the faintest hint of color.

The teeny-tiny embroidered daisies on this puff-sleeve midi are subtle enough to fly under the radar.

No graduation dress code? Lucky you! Dare to be different in a bold hot pink.

Let your dress choice reflect your school pride! Red is the most common university color …

Your future is bright — you know it and your dress knows it!

If you’re wearing a dark-colored robe, how about a classic little black dress?

Show a glimpse of your wild side underneath your staid graduation gown.

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32 Cheap (But Expensive-Looking) Grad Dresses Under $100