The culmination of years of hard work and dedication deserves a proper celebration, and the graduation ceremony is an occasion to highlight your academic achievements. As you prepare for this momentous day, mastering the art of wearing a graduation gown is essential. The gown, with its flowing fabric and intricate details, symbolizes the transition from student to graduate, and donning it correctly ensures a dignified and elegant appearance during the ceremony.
Before you step into the gown, ensure you have the correct attire underneath. For most ceremonies, formal attire is expected, including dress pants or a skirt and a button-down shirt or blouse. The cap and tassel, iconic symbols of academic achievement, should be kept pristine and handled with care. The cap is worn squarely on the head, with the tassel hanging over the right side. As you don the gown, pay attention to the neckline. It should sit comfortably around your neck, with the zipper or buttons securely fastened. Adjust the sleeves to an appropriate length, ensuring they cover your wrists and do not hinder your movements.
Once the gown is in place, it’s time to add the final touches. The hood, if you have earned one, is worn over the gown and should drape over your shoulders. The colors and patterns of the hood signify your academic discipline and the institution you are graduating from. Position the hood so that the inside lining is visible and the tassel hangs over your left shoulder. As you walk across the stage to receive your diploma, remember to maintain good posture and carry yourself with pride. Your graduation gown is a testament to your accomplishments, and wearing it with confidence and grace will leave a lasting impression on this important occasion.
The Significance of the Graduation Gown
The graduation gown, also known as an academic gown or cap and gown, is a formal garment worn by graduates at academic ceremonies. Its origins can be traced back to the medieval universities of Europe, where it was a symbol of academic achievement and distinction. Today, the graduation gown continues to hold great significance in both academia and the wider society.
The graduation gown is typically made of black fabric, although other colors such as navy blue, maroon, or purple may also be used. The gown is tailored with a loose fit and flowing sleeves to provide comfort and ease of movement during the ceremony. It is adorned with intricate details such as pleats, gathers, and embroidery, each of which carries symbolic meaning.
Historical Roots and Evolution
The roots of the graduation gown lie in the attire worn by scholars and clergy in medieval Europe. The distinctive shape and features of the gown evolved over time to reflect the changing social and academic landscape.
- Pre-University Era: Before the establishment of formal universities, scholars and teachers wore long, loose robes that provided warmth and protection. These robes were often made of wool or linen and were typically brown or black in color.
- Early Universities: With the rise of universities in the 12th century, the gown became a standardized academic garment. The black color became associated with seriousness and sobriety, while the flowing sleeves allowed for freedom of movement during lectures and disputations.
- Scholarly Distinctions: Over time, different colors and embellishments were introduced to differentiate between different academic disciplines and ranks. For example, doctoral gowns were often trimmed with velvet or fur, while masters’ gowns had closed sleeves.
- Modern Adaptations: In the 20th century, the graduation gown underwent a gradual transformation to adapt to changing societal norms. More lightweight fabrics were introduced, and the length of the gown was shortened for both men and women.
Symbolic Meanings and Traditions
The graduation gown carries a multitude of symbolic meanings that have been passed down through centuries of academic tradition:
| Symbol | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Black color | Sobriety, seriousness, and intellectual rigor |
| Flowing sleeves | Freedom of thought, movement, and expression |
| Hood | Academic discipline and degree level |
| Trimmings and embroidery | Scholarly rank and achievements |
| Mortarboard or tassel | Graduation status |
The graduation gown is not merely a ceremonial garment but a symbol of the academic journey that graduates have undertaken. It represents their dedication to learning, their pursuit of knowledge, and their achievements in higher education.
Understanding the Graduation Gown Colors and Symbols
The graduation gown, with its distinctive colors and symbols, holds immense significance in the academic realm. Each color and insignia bears specific meanings that reflect the wearer’s academic journey and accomplishments.
Gown Colors: A Spectrum of Academic Significance
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Black | Represents seriousness, formality, and mourning |
| Blue | Symbolizes the sky and water, representing philosophy, theology, and law |
| Brown | Denotes the earth, often worn by students in agriculture, forestry, or earth sciences |
| Crimson | Represents valor, boldness, and leadership, commonly worn by law students and some honor societies |
| Green | Symbolizes growth, vitality, and hope, often associated with agriculture, science, and medicine |
| Lavender | Represents the liberal arts and humanities |
| Mauve | Signifies music |
| Orange | Denotes engineering, architecture, and technical fields |
| Pink | Represents nursing, health sciences, and other feminine professions |
| Purple | Symbolizes royalty, authority, and wisdom, often worn by doctoral candidates |
| Red | Indicates business, finance, and management |
| Tan | Represents fine arts, including music, art, and theater |
| Violet | Symbolizes psychology and counseling |
| White | Signifies purity, innocence, and youth, often worn by undergraduates or first-time graduates |
| Yellow | Denotes sciences, including chemistry, biology, and mathematics |
Symbols and Insignia: Embroidered Expressions of Achievement
In addition to its color, the graduation gown may also feature embroidered symbols or insignia that further denote the wearer’s accomplishments. These symbols may include:
- Doctoral hood: A long, pointed hood that drapes over the shoulders of doctoral candidates, signifying their advanced academic achievement.
- Master’s hood: A slightly shorter hood with a rounded edge, worn by graduates with a master’s degree.
- Doctoral tassel: A tassel with a golden acorn attached to the top of the doctoral hood, indicating the highest level of academic attainment.
- Master’s tassel: A tassel with a silver acorn attached to the top of the master’s hood.
- Honor society cords: Cords of various colors and designs worn by members of honor societies, such as Phi Beta Kappa or Phi Kappa Phi.
- Military insignia: Graduates who have served in the military may wear their military insignia on their gowns.
- Academic regalia: Other academic regalia, such as a mortarboard cap and tassel, may also be worn with the graduation gown.
How To Wear Graduation Gown
Proper Etiquette for Wearing the Gown
Graduation is a significant milestone in one’s life, and it is important to follow proper etiquette when wearing the academic gown. Here are some guidelines to help you make a great impression on this special day:
1. Wear the Gown Correctly
The gown should be worn with the zipper in the back and the hood over your head. The hem of the gown should fall just below your knees, and the sleeves should be long enough to cover your wrists. Men should wear a button-down shirt and tie with their gown, while women can wear a blouse or dress.
2. Maintain a Formal Demeanor
When wearing the gown, it is important to maintain a formal demeanor. Stand up straight, keep your shoulders back, and avoid slouching. You should also avoid talking or laughing excessively.
3. Respect the Gown
The academic gown is a symbol of your academic achievement. It is important to treat it with respect and care. Avoid sitting on the gown or dragging it on the ground. You should also hang the gown up properly when you are not wearing it.
4. Follow University Regulations
Each university has its own specific regulations regarding the wearing of the academic gown. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these regulations and follow them closely. Some universities may require you to wear a cap and tassel with your gown, while others may allow you to wear a stole or other accessories.
| University Regulations for Graduation Gowns |
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5. Be Prepared for the Weather
Graduation ceremonies are often held outdoors, so it is important to be prepared for the weather. If it is cold, you may want to wear a jacket or coat under your gown. If it is raining, you may want to bring an umbrella.
6. Have Fun!
Graduation is a time to celebrate your academic achievements. Be sure to have fun and enjoy the day!
Stole or Hood: Academic Honors and Affiliations
The stole, also known as an academic hood, is a cloth garment worn around the neck and shoulders of graduates during graduation ceremonies. It is typically made of a colored fabric that corresponds to the graduate’s degree and academic field of study. The stole may also feature additional embellishments, such as tassels, fringe, or embroidery, to indicate the recipient’s academic honors or affiliations.
Here is a detailed breakdown of the different types of stoles and hoods and their corresponding meanings:
Types of Stoles and Hoods
Undergraduate Stoles
Undergraduate stoles are typically made of a single color that corresponds to the graduate’s degree. The most common colors for undergraduate stoles are:
- White: Bachelor of Arts degree
- Blue: Bachelor of Science degree
- Gold: Bachelor of Fine Arts degree
- Crimson: Bachelor of Laws degree
- Green: Bachelor of Education degree
- Purple: Bachelor of Divinity degree
Master’s Hoods
Master’s hoods are typically made of a black fabric with a velvet trim that corresponds to the graduate’s academic field of study. The velvet trim is typically 3 inches wide for a Master’s degree and 5 inches wide for a Doctor’s degree.
The following table lists the colors of velvet trim for different academic fields of study:
| Academic Field of Study | Velvet Trim Color |
|---|---|
| Arts | White |
| Education | Light blue |
| Engineering | Orange |
| Fine Arts | Brown |
| Law | Purple |
| Medicine | Green |
| Science | Golden yellow |
| Theology | Red |
Doctoral Hoods
Doctoral hoods are typically made of a black fabric with a velvet trim that corresponds to the graduate’s academic field of study. The velvet trim is typically 5 inches wide for a Doctorate degree.
The following table lists the colors of velvet trim for different academic fields of study for Doctoral degree:
| Academic Field of Study | Velvet Trim Color |
|---|---|
| Arts | Scarlet |
| Education | Light blue |
| Engineering | Orange |
| Fine Arts | Brown |
| Law | Purple |
| Medicine | Green |
| Science | Golden yellow |
| Theology | Red |
Additional Embellishments
In addition to the color and shape, stoles and hoods may also feature additional embellishments, such as:
- Tassels: Tassels are typically attached to the ends of the stole or hood and may vary in color and length depending on the graduate’s degree and academic field of study.
- Fringe: Fringe is a decorative border that may be added to the edges of the stole or hood.
- Embroidery: Embroidery may be used to add additional details to the stole or hood, such as the graduate’s name, degree, or university logo.
Preparing for Graduation Day
Before you don your graduation gown, there are a few things you need to do to ensure a smooth and successful ceremony:
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Confirm your attendance.
Make sure you have confirmed your attendance with the university or college and received your official invitation.
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Check the dress code.
Review the dress code for your graduation ceremony and make sure you adhere to it. Most ceremonies require formal attire, such as business suits or dresses.
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Plan your transportation.
Decide how you will get to and from the ceremony and plan accordingly. Consider carpooling with classmates or family members, or arranging for public transportation.
Dressing Tips
Once you have prepared the logistics, it’s time to focus on dressing for the occasion:
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Choose comfortable shoes.
You will be standing and walking for an extended period, so make sure your shoes are comfortable and supportive. Avoid high heels or shoes with slippery soles.
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Layer your clothing.
The temperature in the venue may fluctuate, so consider layering your clothing. A light jacket or sweater can be easily removed if it gets too warm.
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Follow the academic dress code.
Adhere to the graduation gown requirements set by your institution. This includes the color of the gown, the type of hood (if applicable), and any additional regalia.
How to Wear a Graduation Gown
Now that you have the right accessories, here’s how to put on a graduation gown:
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Put on your cap.
Place the cap on your head, ensuring it is level and secure. Adjust the tassel to hang over your forehead.
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Wear your hood.
If your gown includes a hood, drape it over your shoulders and fasten it around your neck. Ensure the lining of the hood matches the color of your gown.
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Slip into the gown.
Put on the gown, ensuring the zipper is in the back and the sleeves are comfortable. Smooth out any wrinkles or creases.
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Adjust the armholes.
Make sure the armholes are in the correct position and that the gown fits comfortably.
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Check the length.
The hem of the gown should fall just below your feet. If it is too long, ask for assistance in adjusting it.
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Practice walking.
Take a few steps to ensure you can walk comfortably in the gown. Avoid tripping over the hem or the tassel.
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Wear appropriate undergarments.
Choose undergarments that are comfortable and seamless to avoid any visible lines or distractions.
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Accessorize minimally.
Keep jewelry and other accessories to a minimum to maintain a professional and formal appearance.
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Bring a garment bag.
If your gown is prone to wrinkles, consider bringing a garment bag to keep it protected during transit.
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Allow extra time.
Allow ample time for dressing and getting ready before the ceremony to avoid any last-minute stress.
- Cost-effective: Renting a cap and gown is much cheaper than purchasing one. This can be a significant savings, especially if you’re on a tight budget.
- Convenience: Renting a cap and gown is convenient because you don’t have to worry about storing or cleaning it after graduation. You can simply return it to the rental company when you’re finished with it.
- Limited selection: Rental companies often have a limited selection of caps and gowns, so you may not be able to find the exact style or size you want.
- Damage fees: If you damage the cap and gown while you’re renting it, you may be charged a damage fee.
- High quality: Purchased caps and gowns are typically made of higher-quality materials than rental ones. This means they’re more durable and will last longer.
- Customizable: You can customize a purchased cap and gown to make it unique. This can include adding your name, graduation year, or other personal touches.
- Expensive: Purchasing a cap and gown can be expensive, especially if you’re buying a high-quality one.
- Storage: You’ll need to find a place to store your cap and gown after graduation. This can be a problem if you don’t have a lot of space.
- What is the graduation dress code at your school? Some schools require students to wear a specific type of cap and gown, so you may not have a choice between renting and purchasing.
- How many times will you wear your cap and gown? If you’re only planning on wearing your cap and gown once, then renting is a good option. However, if you plan on using it for multiple events, then purchasing is a better value.
- How much storage space do you have? If you don’t have a lot of storage space, then renting is a better option. However, if you have plenty of storage space, then purchasing is a good choice.
Additional Tips for Dressing for Graduation
| Item | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Gown | Color and style as per university requirements |
| Cap | Mortarboard with tassel hanging over forehead |
| Hood | Lined in color matching the gown; draped over shoulders |
| Undergarments | Comfortable and seamless |
| Shoes | Formal, comfortable, and supportive |
Cap and Gown Rental vs. Purchase: Pros and Cons
Deciding whether to rent or purchase your graduation cap and gown can be a tough one. There are pros and cons to both options, so it’s important to weigh them carefully before making a decision.
Rental Pros
Rental Cons
Purchase Pros
Purchase Cons
13. How to Decide
The best way to decide whether to rent or purchase a cap and gown is to consider your individual needs and budget. If you’re on a tight budget or you don’t need a high-quality cap and gown, then renting is a good option. However, if you want a high-quality cap and gown that you can customize, then purchasing is a better choice.
Here are some additional factors to consider when making your decision:
Tips for Handling the Gown During the Ceremony
Your graduation gown is an important part of your graduation regalia. It is a symbol of your academic achievement and should be worn with pride. Here are a few tips on how to handle your gown during the ceremony:
Before the Ceremony
1. Make sure your gown is clean and pressed. You can either dry clean it or iron it on a low setting.
2. Practice wearing your gown before the ceremony. This will help you get used to how it feels and how to move around in it.
3. Bring a safety pin or two with you to the ceremony. This will come in handy if you need to make any quick adjustments to your gown.
During the Ceremony
4. When you enter the processional, hold your gown in front of you with both hands. This will help keep it from getting tangled.
5. As you walk down the aisle, be careful not to step on your gown. If you do, just pick it up and continue walking.
6. When you reach your seat, sit down carefully and adjust your gown so that it is comfortable.
7. During the ceremony, keep your gown closed except when you are receiving your diploma.
8. When you receive your diploma, be careful not to drop it. If you do, just pick it up and continue walking.
9. After the ceremony, follow the instructions of the ushers to return your gown.
After the Ceremony
10. Once you have returned your gown, you can celebrate your graduation! Take pictures, enjoy the party, and be proud of your accomplishment.
11. If you want to keep your gown as a keepsake, you can take it home and store it in a cool, dry place.
12. If you decide to sell your gown, you can do so online or through a consignment shop.
13. No matter what you decide to do with your gown, it is important to treat it with respect. It is a symbol of your achievement and should be cherished.
Additional Tips
14. If you are wearing a hood, make sure it is attached securely to your gown.
15. If you are carrying a purse or other belongings, make sure they are secure and will not fall out of your gown.
The Meaning Behind the Mortarboard Cap
The mortarboard cap, also known as the academic cap, is a flat-topped cap with a tassel that is worn by graduates of universities and colleges. The cap has a long history, dating back to the 13th century, and has come to symbolize academic achievement and tradition.
The mortarboard cap is typically made of black velvet or wool, and has a square or round top. The tassel is usually made of silk or rayon, and is attached to the cap by a button or loop. The color of the tassel indicates the degree that the graduate has earned, with black tassels for bachelor’s degrees, blue tassels for master’s degrees, and gold tassels for doctoral degrees.
The mortarboard cap is worn by graduates during commencement ceremonies, and is often decorated with cords or ribbons that represent the graduate’s academic honors or affiliations. The cap is also worn by faculty members at academic ceremonies, and is sometimes used as a symbol of academic authority.
The History of the Mortarboard Cap
The mortarboard cap evolved from the biretta, a type of hat that was worn by Catholic clergy in the Middle Ages. The biretta was originally a round cap with a brim, but it gradually evolved into a flat-topped cap with a tassel. The mortarboard cap was first adopted by universities in the 13th century, and became the standard academic cap by the 16th century.
The mortarboard cap was originally worn by both men and women graduates, but it is now more commonly worn by men. In the United States, women graduates typically wear a cap that is similar to the mortarboard cap, but has a rounded top instead of a flat top.
The Symbolism of the Mortarboard Cap
The mortarboard cap has come to symbolize academic achievement and tradition. The flat top of the cap is said to represent the foundation of knowledge that a graduate has acquired, while the tassel represents the completion of the graduate’s studies. The color of the tassel indicates the degree that the graduate has earned.
The mortarboard cap is a reminder of the long history of academic tradition, and it is a symbol of the respect that is accorded to those who have earned a college or university degree.
The Meaning of the Tassel
The tassel on the mortarboard cap is a symbol of the graduate’s academic achievement. The color of the tassel indicates the degree that the graduate has earned.
| Degree | Tassel Color |
|---|---|
| Bachelor’s degree | Black |
| Master’s degree | Blue |
| Doctoral degree | Gold |
The tassel is also a symbol of the graduate’s transition from student to alumnus. When the graduate is hooded during the commencement ceremony, the tassel is moved from the right side of the cap to the left side. This symbolizes the graduate’s completion of their studies and their entry into the world of alumni.
The Significance of Academic Regalia
Academic regalia, the distinctive attire worn during college graduation ceremonies, serves as a powerful symbol of the wearer’s academic journey and the culmination of their educational pursuit.
Evolution of Academic Regalia
The origins of academic regalia can be traced back to medieval universities, where scholars adopted distinctive clothing to distinguish themselves from other members of society. Over centuries, these garments evolved into highly formalized and exquisitely detailed attire, reflecting the prestige and authority of higher education.
The intricate designs and colors of academic regalia often vary by institution, with each element representing a specific aspect of the wearer’s academic achievement. The graduation gown, the most iconic piece of regalia, holds a prominent position in the ceremony.
The Graduation Gown: A Symbol of Academic Attainment
The graduation gown is typically a long, flowing robe that drapes over the wearer’s body, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. The cut and style of the gown vary according to the degree level and institution, but all gowns share a common purpose: to convey the wearer’s academic accomplishment.
40. Features of the Graduation Gown
Graduation gowns are meticulously crafted with a range of features that enhance their symbolic significance:
| Feature | Significance |
|---|---|
| Hood | Represents the wearer’s academic discipline or degree |
| Trim | Indicates the level of academic achievement |
| Chevrons | Denote honorary degrees or special achievements |
| Sleeves | Often denote the wearer’s membership in a particular faculty or society |
| Fabric | Reflects the prestige and tradition of the institution |
The proper wearing of the graduation gown ensures that the wearer presents themselves with honor and dignity, symbolizing their commitment to academic excellence.
How To Wear Graduation Gown
As you prepare for your graduation ceremony, it’s essential to know how to wear your graduation gown properly. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you look your best on this special day:
1. Put on the Gown: Start by placing your arms through the gown’s sleeves, ensuring the zipper is closed at the back. Pull the gown up over your head and adjust the shoulders so that they sit comfortably.
2. Adjust the Hood: If your gown comes with a hood, place it over your head and adjust the tassel to the right side. Ensure the hood drapes evenly over both shoulders.
3. Wear the Cap: Position the cap on your head with the tassel hanging over your forehead on the left side. Tighten the strap to secure it.
4. Final Touches: Smooth out any wrinkles in the gown and adjust the length if necessary. Make sure the gown falls just below your knees and that the sleeves extend slightly past your wrists.
People Also Ask
What if my graduation gown is too long/short?
If your gown is too long, you can fold a small portion of the hem up inside the gown and secure it with safety pins. If it’s too short, consider wearing heels or platform shoes to add height.
Can I wear anything underneath my gown?
Yes, you can wear a blouse, dress, or shirt underneath your gown. Choose something that is comfortable and breathable, as you will likely be wearing your gown for several hours.
What should I do with my tassel after the ceremony?
After the ceremony, you can remove the tassel from your cap and keep it as a memento. Some people choose to wear it on their diploma or hang it in their home as a reminder of their accomplishment.
