White Attire Tradition Spelman College Atlanta, GA Why Are Graduation Dresses White A Look at the Meaning Behind the Trad The Stories Behind the College of Charleston's Iconic Commencement Traditions Did you know? The tradition of wearing white dresses to graduation can be traced back to the 19th century when women achieving academic milestones were a huge deal. The white color was More than a dress: the evolution of Flintridge Sacred Heart Academy's graduation attire Veritas Shield