Graduation is one of the most significant milestones in a person’s life. It marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and personal growth. To celebrate this achievement properly, most institutions require students to wear traditional academic regalia during the commencement ceremony. This usually includes a gown, a cap (mortarboard), and a tassel. Finding the right place to order these items and ensuring they fit correctly is a top priority for any graduating senior.
The process of securing your graduation attire should be straightforward and stress-free. Whether you are graduating from high school, college, or a postgraduate program, having the correct regalia ensures you look your best in photos and feel a sense of belonging during the ceremony. This guide provides clear, actionable steps on how to select, measure, and order your graduation essentials to ensure everything is ready for your big day.
Understanding Academic Regalia Components
Before you place an order, it is helpful to understand what usually comes in a graduation package. Academic regalia varies depending on the level of education you have completed, but the core components remain relatively consistent across most institutions.
The Graduation Gown
The gown is the most prominent part of your attire. High school and bachelor’s degree gowns typically have pointed sleeves and are worn closed. Master’s degree gowns feature oblong sleeves with an arc cut at the bottom, while doctoral gowns are more elaborate, featuring velvet panels and sleeve bars. The color of the gown is usually determined by your school’s official colors or the specific field of study.
The Mortarboard and Tassel
The cap, often called a mortarboard, is a flat square hat worn with one point facing forward. It is designed to sit level on your head. The tassel is attached to the center button of the cap. A common tradition involves moving the tassel from the right side to the left side after the degrees are officially conferred during the ceremony.
Hoods and Stoles
For college graduates, hoods are often worn over the gown to signify the specific degree earned and the institution attended. Stoles or sashes are frequently used to represent membership in honor societies, athletic teams, or specific cultural organizations. These accessories add a personalized touch to the standard uniform.
How to Measure for Your Graduation Gown
Getting the right fit is essential for both comfort and appearance. A gown that is too long can be a tripping hazard, while one that is too short may look awkward. Most online ordering systems use height and weight to determine your size, but taking specific measurements can help guarantee a better fit.
- Height: Stand straight against a wall without shoes. Measure from the top of your head to the floor. Most vendors categorize sizes by 2-inch or 3-inch height increments.
- Weight: Your weight helps determine the “fullness” of the gown. Gowns are designed to be loose-fitting, but “plus” or “full-fit” sizes are available for those who need extra room in the chest and midsection.
- Sleeve Length: While less common for standard orders, you can measure from the center of your neck, over the shoulder, and down to your wrist to ensure the sleeves are the appropriate length.
Always check the specific sizing chart provided by the vendor you are using. If you fall between two height categories, it is generally recommended to choose the shorter size if you prefer the gown to hit mid-calf, or the taller size if you prefer a longer look.
The Step-by-Step Ordering Process
Most schools partner with specific graduation service providers to ensure all students have matching attire. Following the official school link is the most reliable way to get the correct colors and styles required for your ceremony.
- Locate Your School’s Portal: Visit the ordering website and search for your specific school by name and location. This ensures you are viewing the correct catalog for your graduating class.
- Select Your Package: Most students opt for a “Cap, Gown, and Tassel” bundle. Some schools offer premium packages that include announcements, thank-you cards, and diploma frames.
- Enter Your Personal Details: Provide your height, weight, and the degree you are receiving. If you are a graduate student, you may also need to specify your field of study to get the correct hood colors.
- Check for Deadlines: Schools often have a “cutoff date” for orders to ensure delivery before the ceremony. Ordering early can also help you avoid rush shipping fees.
- Review and Confirm: Double-check your shipping address and the items in your cart. Many graduation items are custom-made or specific to a school year, so they may have strict return policies.
Essential Graduation Accessories and Keepsakes
Beyond the basic cap and gown, there are several other items you might consider to commemorate your achievement. These keepsakes serve as lasting reminders of your hard work and the support of your family and friends.
Diploma Frames
Your diploma is a hard-earned document that deserves protection. A high-quality frame keeps the parchment from wrinkling or fading over time. Many graduation centers offer frames specifically sized for your school’s diplomas, often featuring the school’s seal or name embossed on the matting.
Graduation Announcements
Sending out formal announcements is a traditional way to share your success with extended family and friends. These usually include your name, the degree earned, the date of graduation, and the name of the institution. It is customary to send these out three to four weeks before the ceremony.
Souvenir Tassels and Jewelry
Many students like to purchase an extra “souvenir” tassel to hang from their rearview mirror or keep in a shadow box. Class rings and other commemorative jewelry are also popular options for those looking for a more permanent memento of their school years.
Caring for Your Gown Before the Ceremony
Once your graduation attire arrives, it is important to prepare it so you look sharp on the day of the event. Gowns are often folded tightly for shipping, which can result in deep creases and wrinkles.
Do not use a high-heat iron directly on the gown fabric, as many are made of synthetic materials that can melt. Instead, use a handheld steamer to gently remove wrinkles. If you do not have a steamer, you can hang the gown in a bathroom while taking a hot shower; the steam from the shower will help the wrinkles drop out over time. Always hang the gown on a sturdy hanger as soon as it arrives to prevent further creasing.
Final Tips for a Smooth Graduation Day
To ensure your graduation day goes off without a hitch, keep these final tips in mind. First, try on your entire outfit, including your cap and shoes, at least a week before the ceremony. This gives you time to address any sizing issues or discomfort.
Second, remember that the cap should be worn flat on the head, not tilted back. You may need bobby pins to secure it in place, especially if you have thick hair or if the ceremony is outdoors and windy. Finally, make sure you know your school’s specific traditions regarding tassels and stoles so you can wear them with confidence.
Preparing for graduation is an exciting time. By handling your regalia orders early and accurately, you can focus on what really matters: celebrating your success with your peers and loved ones. If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on career preparation and life transitions to help you navigate your next steps after graduation.