A cotton dress in a natural fiber reads as understated and practical. Cotton breathes and wears well and has a relaxed quality that fits smart casual perfectly. This is not the dress that requires special handling or dry cleaning anxiety. Cotton also comes in enough weights and constructions that you can find something that reads as polished rather than sloppy. A well-made cotton dress in a good color is professional without being stuffy. These cotton dresses work for graduation because they are honest and genuine without pretension.