Introduction
How To Wear A Cap And Gown For Graduation: The culmination of years of hard work and dedication has led you to this momentous occasion – your graduation day. As you prepare to walk across the stage and receive your diploma, one of the essential elements of your attire is the cap and gown. Wearing the cap and gown correctly not only adds to the solemnity and significance of the event but also symbolizes your academic achievement and transition to the next phase of your life.
In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of wearing a cap and gown for graduation, ensuring that you look polished and confident throughout the ceremony. From adjusting the cap to draping the gown, we will cover every detail to make sure you exude grace and elegance as you celebrate this monumental milestone.
Not only will you learn the technical aspects of wearing the cap and gown, but we will also share some insightful tips and tricks to make the experience more comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re a high school graduate, a college alumnus, or receiving an advanced degree, understanding the proper way to don the cap and gown will make your graduation day even more memorable.
What do you wear under a graduation cap and gown?
Women are best wearing either dress pants or a shorter skirt underneath the gown, while men should choose khakis or dark-colored dress pants. Avoid brightly coloured bottoms if you choose to wear dress pants or a longer skirt, as they can be seen below the hem of the gown and stick to darker colours.
Under a graduation cap and gown, you typically wear formal attire appropriate for the occasion. The goal is to look neat and presentable while maintaining a unified and cohesive appearance with your fellow graduates. Here are some guidelines on what to wear under your cap and gown:
For Men: A collared dress shirt, preferably in white or a light color, is a classic choice. Pair it with dress slacks or khakis and dress shoes. Ties or bowties can be worn for a more formal look, but they are not mandatory.
For Women: A blouse or a dress with a modest neckline is a suitable option. The dress should be knee-length or longer, and skirts should be of an appropriate length. Comfortable, closed-toe dress shoes are preferred, as you may be standing or walking for an extended period.
Footwear: Choose dress shoes that are comfortable and match the color scheme of your outfit. Avoid wearing flip-flops, athletic shoes, or casual sandals, as they do not complement the formality of the occasion.
Consider the Climate: If the graduation ceremony is outdoors or in a warm climate, opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics. Conversely, for cooler temperatures, you can layer with a light jacket or cardigan.
How do you wear a graduation cap left or right?
Tassels are worn on the right side of the cap before the ceremony and are then moved from the right side to the left after receiving a diploma or when directed to do so by the graduation speaker.
When wearing a graduation cap, also known as a mortarboard, the general convention is to place it flat on your head with the front side facing forward. There is no specific rule about wearing it left or right, as the design is symmetrical and meant to be centered on the head. However, there are some cultural or institutional variations in different regions or universities.
In the United States, the tassel on the graduation cap is typically worn on the right side before the commencement ceremony begins. As you receive your diploma or degree on stage, you move the tassel to the left side. This signifies the transition from candidate to graduate and is a symbolic moment in the ceremony.
In some other countries or institutions, the tassel may be worn on the left side before the ceremony and moved to the right side after graduation. It’s essential to check with your specific school or follow the instructions given by the organizers during the commencement rehearsal to adhere to the correct tradition.
What not to wear under graduation gown?
Graduation gowns can be quite warm, and many graduation ceremonies are held in the early summer. You are probably not going to want to wear sweaters or long sleeves under your gown. You want to be cool and comfortable and not run the risk of overheating, excessively perspiring, or worse fainting.
When wearing a graduation gown, it’s important to dress appropriately to maintain the formality and significance of the occasion. Here are some things you should avoid wearing under your graduation gown:
Casual Attire: Avoid wearing jeans, t-shirts, shorts, or any casual clothing. Graduation is a formal event, and your outfit should reflect the solemnity of the occasion.
Revealing Outfits: Steer clear of clothing with low necklines, exposed shoulders, or short hemlines. Your graduation ceremony is a professional event, and your attire should be modest and respectful.
Excessive Accessories: While minimal and tasteful accessories are acceptable, avoid wearing large, distracting jewelry, or excessive piercings that may take away from the formality of the event.
Inappropriate Shoes: Skip athletic shoes, flip-flops, and casual sandals. Opt for closed-toe dress shoes that complement your outfit and maintain a polished appearance.
Overly Elaborate Hairdos: Avoid hairstyles that are too elaborate or cover the top of your head, as they may interfere with the proper fit of the graduation cap.
Which side is the front of the graduation cap?
Start Graduation With Tassels on the Right Side (Usually)
Graduation tassels go on the right side of your cap before you graduate – at least most of the time. If you’re graduating from high school or getting your undergrad degree in college, it’s usually going to mean tassels on the right.
The front of a graduation cap, also known as a mortarboard, is typically the side that features a slightly raised, square or rectangular board with a button or fabric tassel attached to it. This part of the cap is designed to sit at the center of the graduate’s forehead when worn correctly.
The mortarboard is a symmetrical square or diamond-shaped hat with a flat top. It is essential to position the cap correctly to achieve a balanced and uniform look among all graduates during the commencement ceremony. The cap should be placed flat on the head, with the front side facing forward and the back side sitting at the nape of the neck.
To determine which side is the front, locate the graduation tassel attached to the button or fabric loop on the mortarboard. In the United States and many other countries, the tradition is to wear the tassel on the right side before the ceremony begins. As the ceremony progresses and graduates are called to receive their diplomas, they are instructed to move the tassel from the right side to the left side. This symbolic gesture signifies the transition from candidate to graduate.
It’s important to follow the guidelines set by your specific educational institution or the commencement organizers. Usually, during the rehearsal before the ceremony, you will be instructed on how to position the cap correctly to ensure a uniform and well-organized appearance during the graduation procession and ceremony.
What are the essential components of a graduation attire, and how do they contribute to the overall look of the cap and gown ensemble?
The essential components of a graduation attire include the graduation cap (mortarboard), the graduation gown, and optional accessories such as honor cords, stoles, and academic regalia. Each component contributes to the overall look and symbolism of the cap and gown ensemble.
Graduation Cap (Mortarboard): The graduation cap is a square or diamond-shaped hat with a flat top and a button or fabric loop to attach the tassel. It represents the completion of academic studies and transition to the next phase of life. When properly worn, the cap adds a sense of formality and accomplishment to the overall ensemble.
Graduation Gown: The graduation gown, often referred to as a robe, is a flowing, ankle-length garment typically made of black or dark-colored fabric. It symbolizes academic achievement and uniformity among graduates. The gown’s design and color may vary based on the level of education and the specific institution.
Tassel: The tassel is a decorative cord attached to the center of the graduation cap. Its color may indicate the graduate’s field of study or academic achievement. During the commencement ceremony, the tassel is traditionally worn on the right side before graduates receive their diplomas. After the ceremony, graduates move the tassel to the left side, symbolizing the official graduation.
Honor Cords and Stoles: These optional accessories may be worn to recognize academic achievements, honors, or membership in specific organizations. They add distinction to the overall appearance and serve as a symbol of academic excellence.
Academic Regalia: For higher education ceremonies, such as college or university graduations, graduates may wear additional academic regalia, such as hoods or sashes, which signify the degree earned and the institution attended. These components contribute to the formal and traditional atmosphere of the graduation ceremony.
The combination of these essential components creates a sense of unity and accomplishment among the graduating class while honoring the significance of the milestone achieved. The cap and gown ensemble is a visual representation of academic excellence and a celebration of the graduates’ hard work and dedication.
What is the significance of the tassel on the graduation cap, and how does its placement change throughout the commencement ceremony?
The tassel on the graduation cap holds symbolic significance and represents an important tradition during the commencement ceremony. It is an integral part of the cap and gown ensemble, and its placement changes throughout the ceremony to mark the transition from candidate to graduate.
The significance of the tassel is twofold:
Symbol of Achievement: The tassel is a symbol of academic achievement and hard work. When graduates wear their caps with the tassel on the right side at the beginning of the ceremony, it represents their status as candidates for graduation, still working towards earning their diplomas or degrees.
Symbol of Transition: As the ceremony progresses and graduates are called to receive their diplomas or degrees, they are instructed to move the tassel from the right side to the left side of the cap. This moment symbolizes the official transition from candidate to graduate, signifying the successful completion of their academic journey and the commencement of a new phase in their lives.
The movement of the tassel is usually done in unison, often guided by a signal from the commencement speaker or a designated official. The moment when graduates move their tassels is a symbolic and poignant part of the ceremony, representing the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.
How should the graduation gown be draped and adjusted to ensure a comfortable fit and a polished appearance?
To ensure a comfortable fit and a polished appearance, graduates should properly drape and adjust the graduation gown. Follow these steps for a well-fitted and dignified look:
Put on the Gown: Begin by putting on the graduation gown, holding it by the shoulders with the front side facing you. If there is a zipper or buttons, make sure they are at the front.
Align Shoulders: Align the shoulder seams of the gown with your natural shoulder line. Ensure that the gown hangs evenly at the front and back.
Sleeve Positioning: Allow the sleeves to hang naturally, and ensure that they reach just past your wrists. The cuffs should be visible below your sleeves but not overly long.
Fasten the Front: If the gown has a zipper or buttons at the front, fasten them securely to keep the gown in place.
Adjust Collar: Adjust the collar, if applicable, to lie flat against your neck. Make sure it is comfortable and not too tight.
Secure with a Pin: If the gown has a loose or floppy front, you may use a small safety pin to secure it discreetly.
Check the Back: Ask a friend or family member to check the back of your gown to ensure it is straight and not twisted.
Remember, a well-draped graduation gown not only contributes to a polished appearance but also enhances your comfort during the ceremony. Take your time to adjust the gown properly before the commencement to present yourself confidently as you walk across the stage to receive your diploma or degree.
Are there specific guidelines or traditions for wearing honor cords, stoles, or academic regalia, and how do they vary among different educational institutions?
Yes, there are specific guidelines and traditions for wearing honor cords, stoles, and academic regalia, and they can vary among different educational institutions. These accessories are often used to recognize academic achievements, honors, or membership in specific organizations. Here’s a general overview:
Honor Cords: Honor cords are typically worn around the neck and over the graduation gown. They come in different colors, and each color represents a specific academic achievement or honor. Common examples include cords for cum laude, magna cum laude, and summa cum laude honors. Some institutions may have additional colors to recognize other achievements or fields of study.
Stoles: Stoles are long, decorative sashes that are worn draped over the shoulders and hanging down the front of the graduation gown. They may be used to signify various honors or memberships in academic or social organizations. Stoles can be embroidered with specific emblems or symbols representing the respective organization or achievement.
Academic Regalia: For higher education ceremonies, such as college or university graduations, graduates may wear additional academic regalia, such as hoods or sashes. The design and color of these accessories may indicate the degree earned and the specific field of study. They can vary significantly based on the academic discipline and institution.
The guidelines for wearing these accessories are typically outlined by the institution or the commencement organizers. Some institutions may have specific rules on the placement of cords and stoles, such as wearing them on top of the graduation gown or underneath it. Additionally, some honors or organizations may have strict eligibility criteria for graduates to wear the associated cords or stoles.
Conclusion
The cap and gown ensemble consists of essential components such as the graduation cap (mortarboard) and gown, as well as optional accessories like honor cords, stoles, and academic regalia. Each element plays a role in honoring academic accomplishments and fostering a sense of unity among the graduating class.
Throughout the commencement ceremony, the tassel on the graduation cap holds particular significance as it moves from right to left, signifying the transition from candidate to graduate. This symbolic gesture marks the official recognition of academic success and the commencement of a new chapter in the graduates’ lives.
To ensure a comfortable fit and a polished appearance, graduates should take care to properly drape and adjust the graduation gown. The careful arrangement of the attire reflects respect for the occasion and demonstrates pride in academic achievements.
As graduates cross the stage to receive their diplomas, the cap and gown serve as a visual representation of their accomplishments, academic excellence, and potential for future success. The graduation ceremony becomes a moment of celebration and reflection, where graduates stand united in their achievements and optimism for what lies ahead.
