Style Guide: Grad Dresses

fashion

We can't help but feel a little nostalgic for our high school days at this time of year. While we may not be in the market for a grad dress, it’s just as much fun to help you get prepped and ready for the big day! So, we’ve put together six sophisticated looks to cover every style and budget. And if you’re more focused on wedding season, we’re confident that these looks could easily translate to any formal event.

If you’re looking to save...

Sequined Flapper Gown
It’s impossible not to feel like a vintage starlet in this gown. The drop-waist, sequined bodice and layered skirt are channelling everything we love about ‘20s style. Every flapper knows that a great skirt and glittering sequins are guaranteed to look amazing on the dance floor! Go sparkly with your accessories on this one, and seal your fate as belle of the ball.

Navy Cowl-Back Gown
If you’re looking for something with old Hollywood glamour, we found a dress that could have come right out of Grace Kelly’s closet. This deep navy gown is striking, with elegant long sleeves and a captivating cowl back. The boat neck silhouette and clinging fabric is so sophisticated, and so alluring. This dress is the perfect canvas for accessorizing, and we used a sparkly barrette and sapphire earrings to play up the Hollywood glam.

If you’re looking to splurge...

Cobalt Blue Lace Gown
This floor-skimming dress has a carefree boho vibe, but the luxurious fabric is formal enough for the big day. The exquisitely crafted floral lace layer is absolutely stunning up-close – and can we talk about the colour?! This bright cobalt blue is seriously jaw-dropping. Opt for minimal accessories in nude or light pink that won’t compete.

Watercolour-print Gown with Mesh Inset
This gorgeous floral pattern is so feminine, and feels like a work of art. We love how the mesh inset gives the illusion of a two-piece (think Taylor at the Grammys), without being too revealing. Pull from the palette of beautiful colours in the skirt when choosing your accessories – we chose a teal clutch, pink heels, and a statement necklace to compliment the bib-style neckline.

If you want to try something different...

Gothic Cutout Gown
If Rooney Mara were in your class, this is what she would be wearing come Grad Day. With a tiered, ruffled, sheer skirt and elaborate cutout bodice, this gothic-glam dress is decidedly daring – and we’re obsessed. Keep it edgy by accessorizing with chain earrings, a bold rhinestone clutch, and some seriously killer heels. If you want to stray from the norm and turn some heads, this is a great way to go.

Chic Pantsuit
There’s no rule that says you have to wear a dress, and a chic pantsuit is sophisticated, edgy, and unexpected. If you choose to go this route, we love a tailored blazer and wide-leg pant, to create a modern silhouette. Paired with neon accessories, this look instantly enters best-dressed territory. As far as we’re concerned, being different is always a good thing, and this look is perfect for anyone who wants to stand out from the crowd.

Congratulations to the Class of 2016! We hope you have a wonderful night, in a dress (or not!) that makes you feel extra special. Be sure to tag us in your photos on Instagram so we can see what you end up wearing!

See something you must have? Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the looks (check stores for availability):

Sequined Flapper Gown
Nude chiffon gown: Le Chateau, $295.95
Sparkly pumps: Hudson's Bay, $140.00
Bracelet: Le Chateau, $39.95
Multi-jewel earring: Le Chateau, $25.00
Clutch: BCBGMAXAXRIA, $210.00

Navy Cowl-Back Gown
Navy dress: Le Chateau, $189.95
Tan suede pumps: Browns (Michael Kors), $168.00
Sapphire earrings: Le Chateau, $18.00
Ring: Le Chateau, $12.95
Barrette: Le Chateau, $15.00

Blue Lace Gown
Cobalt lace dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $623.00
Nude heels: Aldo, $70.00
Pink teardrop earrings: Le Chateau, $18.00
Clutch: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $223.00

Watercolour-print Gown with Mesh Inset
Floral mesh gown: Laure Petite, $298.00
Coral heels: Hudson's Bay, $79.00
Statement necklace: Aldo, $40.00
Gold ring: Le Chateau, $12.95
Green and gold clutch: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $156.00

Gothic Cutout Gown
Black dress: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $623.00
Heels with chain detail: Hudson's Bay (Guess), $120.00
Black chain earrings: Le Chateau, $22.00
Rhinestone clutch: Le Chateau, $49.95

Chic Pantsuit
Black blazer: BCBGMAXAZRIA, $310.00
Black cami: RW&Co., $24.90
Bralette: Boathouse, $24.00
Dress pants: Reitmans (Willow & Thread), $68.00
Green stilettos: Aldo, $95.00
Geometric earrings: Le Chateau, $7.95
Clutch: Aldo, $50.00

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