Emerald green graduation dresses for cap, gown and dinner

Morning on stage, lunch with grandma

Under the robe, keep it simple. A short long-sleeve velvet style with a plain round neckline disappears under it, and only a strip of green peeks out above the zipper. That’s plenty of color for photos with your diploma. The midi in velvet works the same way, just a little longer.

Lunch is where the robe comes off. Grandparents, a restaurant booth, maybe a cake. A midi feels right at that table, and our velvet wrap midi lets you loosen the tie after dessert. Pearl studs, nude pumps, a small cream bag. Nothing louder.

The emerald rib knit midi with a turtleneck looks more like a smart work dress than a party one, and that’s useful. You’ll wear it again at your first job interview.

After dark, or in June

For the party, go bolder. The lurex wrap mini shimmers with every step, the velvet mini on thin straps shows your shoulders, and the floor-length velvet with open shoulders and a slit is the most dressed-up emerald green graduation dress we make. Save that one for a formal ball.

A summer ceremony outdoors is different. Velvet in June is too warm, honestly. The satin wraps in emerald, one with short sleeves and one with long, belong to our summer collection, and they’re back in the catalog every spring, so plan the fitting before the date. Satin’s smooth, silky face looks bright in daylight photos on a lawn.

Sizing is XS to XL. A US 6–8 usually means our M. Measure yourself a few weeks before the date, because a fitted velvet mini that’s tight at the hips will ride up every time you sit down on those folding chairs.

Frequently asked questions

My school colors aren’t green. Can I still wear emerald?

Of course. It sits nicely next to a black, navy or maroon robe and doesn’t fight with any stole.

Will a velvet mini look too casual for the ceremony?

Not with long sleeves and a closed neck. It looks neat under the gown and dressy without it.

What’s the best way to wash emerald satin?

Cool water and your hands, or the delicate cycle. Keep it out of the tumble dryer, hang it in a shady spot, then steam out any creases.

Which shoes for stage stairs?

Block heels or pointed flats. You’ll climb steps in front of a full auditorium, and a stiletto on a wooden stage is a risk nobody needs that day. Swap into higher heels for the party if you like.

Compare shades in our full graduation lineup, see this green for parties and dinners on the emerald dress page, or find other colors in soft velvet.