Putting on the Robes with Pride: Advice on Proper Regalia Etiquette for Doctorate Candidates

Practical Advice and Etiquette Tips for Wearing Doctoral Regalia

Graduation ceremonies are significant events that symbolize years of effort and commitment. Academic regalia attire is a big component of this celebration for PhD candidates. Here are some helpful hints and social norms to make sure you wear your robe, hood, and cap confidently and appropriately.

The Gown

• Selecting the Correct Size:Make sure the gown fits properly. Although gowns shouldn't be excessively big or little, they should generally be flowing and loose. Usually, they land just above the ankle or in the mid-calf.
• Putting on the Gown:
  • Step 1: Hold the gown in front of you with the opening facing away.
  • Step 2:Make sure the large, bell-shaped ends of the sleeves hang loosely when you slide your arms into them.
  • Step 3:Make sure the yoke, which rests on your shoulders, is comfortable and lies flat.
• Adjusting the Gown:Make sure the gown doesn't bunch up after it is on. It should hang evenly. If the gown has buttons or inner loops, use these to keep it in place.

The Hood

• Understanding the Hood:The hood represents your success in the classroom. Your university and the particular degree you have obtained are represented by its colors and linings.
• Draping the Hood:
  • Step 1: Hold the hood with the largest part (the cape) facing down and the velvet border facing up.
  • Step 2:Make sure the velvet border is visible across your shoulders and neck when you place the hood over your head.
  • Step 3:The hood's longest section ought to fall down your back. As the lining represents the colors of your school, make sure it is visible.
• Securing the Hood:To fasten the hood to a button or pin on your gown, use the loop or cord located at its front. By doing this, you can keep the hood from falling off your shoulders.
• Taming the Hood:Position the hood so that the colors are visible on the inside and it rests nicely on your back. In order to make sure everything looks nice, use a mirror or get help.

The Cap (Mortarboard or Tudor Bonnet)

• Positioning the Cap:
  • Mortarboard:With the board parallel to the ground, place the mortarboard flat atop your head. The cap's point should be facing upward and positioned directly above your brow.
  • Tudor Bonnet: Position the bonnet comfortably on your head. It should sit evenly and not too far back.
• Adjusting the Tassel:
  • Mortarboard:After your degree has been formally awarded, the tassel should be placed from the right side of the cap to the left. Usually, this is carried out during the ceremony.
  • Tudor Bonnet: If wearing a bonnet, it may not have a tassel, simplifying this step.

Etiquette Tips

• Practice Wearing Your Regalia:Make sure you are at ease and experienced with donning your regalia before the ceremony.
• Dress Appropriately Underneath:Put on business clothes underneath your robe. It is advised to wear comfortable shoes and dark colors so as not to draw attention away from the regalia.
• Maintain Proper Posture:To maintain the fit of your robe and hood, take care when standing and sitting. Slouching may make the outfit appear unkempt.
• Handling the Hooding Ceremony:If your university holds a hooding ceremony, pay close attention to the directions given by the marshal or a faculty member. In most cases, you will bend slightly or kneel while they place the hood over your head.
• Respect the Tradition:Academic regalia wear has been a tradition for ages. Show some consideration for your gown, hood, and cap. Make sure they are tidy and clean, and try not to fidget with them during the ceremony.

Final Checks

• Mirror Check:Look in a full-length mirror at yourself before you leave for the ceremony. Make sure your cap, hood, and gown are all in the right place.
• Assistance:Never be afraid to ask friends, family, or other graduates for assistance. Making all of the adjustments yourself might be challenging.

You can respect the academic traditions that your regalia signifies while also looking the part by adhering to these helpful pointers and etiquette requirements.