Why is white the unofficial color of graduation? by Sarah Pettey Medium Wearing white for graduation, especially for women, comes from a tradition that started in the early 1900s. The color white became a symbol of new beginnings and formality. It stuck around Ace One Shoulder White Graduation Dress PromGirl House of CB Graduation Dresses Elegant White Graduation Midi 10 White Graduation Dresses for a Classic Look