From Undergraduate to Doctorate: The Evolution of Academic Dress in the UK

In the UK, academic attire has a long and illustrious history that dates back centuries, representing the customs and status connected to higher learning. Academic regalia have its origins in medieval Europe, when clergy and intellectuals donned distinctive clothing as a representation of their scholarly and spiritual endeavors.

Because many early colleges were intimately associated with religious institutions, the clerical apparel of the time had a significant influence on the early academic garb. Both students and scholars would dress in robes and hoods to resemble monks and clergy. These early outfits varied from university to university and were not standardized.

Academic attire standards were necessary as universities developed and became more regimented. One of the main players in this standardization process was the University of Oxford. Regulations mandating the wearing of a gown, hood, and cap for specific degrees were implemented in the 16th century. These elements' patterns and hues were frequently unique to the degree level and the field of study.

Over the ensuing centuries, fashion, university policies, and cultural developments all had an impact on the evolution of academic attire. The 19th century saw a revival of interest in medieval customs, and academic regalia were designed with this nostalgia in mind. Hood wear became more uniform, with varied colors signifying various academic specialties. Another staple of the regalia was the cap, which was typically a mortarboard in the shape of a square.

In the United Kingdom, attempts were made in the late 19th and early 20th century to regulate and standardize academic attire. In order to deal with this problem, the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Principals (CVCP) was founded in 1918. In order to ensure uniformity among universities, the CVCP—later renamed Universities UK—worked to develop criteria for academic wear. These rules contributed to the establishment of a more standardized system, designating distinct colors and styles for various academic fields.

The regalia that doctorate candidates wore changed over time. In particular, doctoral hoods became more ornate and recognizable. The hood's length, form, and lining started to represent the degree's level and the university. It is said that the custom of donning a hood on one's neck after it was first worn draped over the arm represents the transfer of knowledge from the university to the individual.

Academic attire has undergone a modernization and updating movement in recent decades while keeping many of its classic components. Some universities have introduced new colors or designs to reflect their unique identity, while others have maintained a strict adherence to historical traditions. The design and manufacture of academic regalia has also drawn attention to the use of materials that are ethically and sustainably sourced.

In conclusion, the evolution of academic attire in the UK is a fascinating historical narrative that captures the shifting nature of postsecondary education, the impact of many cultures, and the need to uphold established customs. The academic community's intellectual accomplishments and scholarly endeavors are symbolized by academic wear, which has evolved from its modest origins influenced by church regalia to the uniform and regulated regalia seen today.