Editor’s note: Looking for a dress in time for graduation this weekend? Our writer, Melanie has you covered!
As the end of the academic year nears, this season symbolizes more than the end of classes, but rather the conclusion of some students’ college careers. Empty champagne bottles, colorful confetti and lines to take pictures at UT’s most iconic locations are typical signs that it’s graduation season.
Between preparing for post-grad life and searching for employment, looking for the right dress for graduation can be a stressful ordeal. To alleviate that burden, BurntXOrange has collected some online stores and places near campus to make this shopping season a little easier.
- Oh Polly – This British brand designs sequin dresses, dramatic silhouettes and tiered skirts. Oh Polly produces form fitting elegant dresses in an array of colors. Sizing runs between 0-18 and their prices range from $35 to $390.
- Lulu’s – Lulu’s started as a brick-and-mortar vintage shop before completely adopting its online format. The shop now offers a wide range of styles from cocktail dresses, sundresses, formal styles and y2k. The brand offers sizes XXS-3XL and prices range from $20 to $548.
- Meshki – This Australian brand is named after the Farsi word for black. Founded by two Australian-Persian architecture students, this online-only brand sells elevated maxi cocktail dresses and sequin midi dresses. They offer sizes XXS-3XL and their prices range from $60 to $200.
- Windsor – Windsor dominates the prom and cocktail dress industry. This retailer offers dresses for every occasion and has a location in the Barton Creek Mall here in Austin. Prices range from $30 to $500 and sizes XS-XL are available.
- Altar’d State – Stepping into Altar’d State is like being transported into a princess’s dream wardrobe. Arrays of white, blue, pink and floral dresses fill the racks, making this place the perfect place for anyone looking for a puff sleeve or sweetheart neckline. They offer sizes XS-XXL and prices range from $50 to $250.
- Francesca’s – Characterized by floral, feminine dresses and rompers, Francesca’s is an automatic go-to for graduation dresses. Their bohemian vibe is similar to Altar’d State and their dresses are just as frilly. Francesca’s is an American brand and they offer sizes XS-3XL and prices range from $30 to $111.
- Princess Polly – The iconic Australian brand is known for its trendy, stylish dresses. From lace to knitted, Princess Polly has a dress for every occasion. Sizes range from 0-12 and prices are between $28 and $114.
- ASOS – Did someone say classics? ASOS is perfect for people looking for a classic maxi dress. The British brand has been around since 2000, so they have a wide range of options available. Prices range from $45 to $375, sizes include XXS-4XL and they offer petite and tall options.
- Buffalo Exchange – This thrift store’s proximity to UT’s campus makes it a hotspot for pre-loved, discounted clothing. Buffalo’s inventory depends on recent donations and usually sells from retailers like Princess Polly and Urban Outfitters, making it a more affordable option.
- Guad Vintage Market – For those looking for statement and vintage pieces, Guad Vintage Market is the place to be. Every Sunday from noon to 6 p.m., vendors set up their merchandise right outside Pavement at 2932 Guadalupe Street. Every week, vendors showcase their carefully curated collections from different decades for visitors to buy.
- C. Jane – If you’re ever walking down Guad, make sure to stop by C. Jane. This boutique offers a range of brands like Wildfox, Rails, Chan Luu and BB Dakota. C. Jane is a little on the pricier side and sizes vary.
Facebook Marketplace/Groups – While some of us only have Facebook to communicate with older family members, one thing the social platform gets right is its marketplace. Some good UT groups to find clothes are UT Sorority Yard Sale and UT Austin Buy/Sell/Trade, or you can try looking for some local Austin groups. Items are usually used and sold at relatively low prices.
