Bachelor’s Degree Cap & Gown: Everything You Need To Know
The bachelor’s degree cap and gown, often purchased from academic suppliers like Herff Jones, represents the culmination of significant effort and achievement within higher education. The mortarboard, a key component of the bachelor’s degree cap and gown ensemble, symbolizes intellectual accomplishment. Furthermore, universities generally have specific academic dress codes. These are implemented to standardize the appearance of graduates. Understanding the nuances of a bachelor’s degree cap and gown allows students to fully appreciate its significance during the commencement ceremony.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Jostens , from the video titled How-To Wear Your Graduation Regalia .
Bachelor’s Degree Cap & Gown: Everything You Need To Know
Crafting an informative article about "bachelor’s degree cap and gown" requires a well-structured layout to ensure clarity and engagement. The following breakdown outlines the recommended sections and sub-sections, focusing on providing comprehensive information for prospective graduates.
Understanding the Components of Your Academic Regalia
This section should introduce the different parts of the attire and their significance.
- Cap (Mortarboard):
- The origin and symbolism of the square academic cap.
- Materials used in construction (e.g., felt, cardboard).
- Correct way to wear the cap:
- Positioning on the head (level, not tilted).
- The tassel’s initial placement (right side before graduation, left side after).
- Gown:
- Material and style variations (based on the degree being awarded).
- Gown length and fit considerations.
- How to properly wear the gown.
- Tassel:
- Color symbolism (representing the field of study or university colors).
- Materials used in tassel construction.
- The significance of moving the tassel during the graduation ceremony.
- Hood (Optional, but often included):
- Shape and lining details.
- Velvet trim color significance (representing the academic discipline).
- How to wear the hood correctly (draping and fastening).
Ordering Your Bachelor’s Degree Cap and Gown
This part guides students through the purchasing process.
- Where to Buy:
- University bookstore.
- Online academic apparel retailers.
- Potential for renting instead of buying.
- Ordering Deadlines:
- Importance of meeting deadlines to ensure timely delivery.
- Consequences of missing deadlines (e.g., late fees, limited selection).
- Sizing Information:
- How to determine the correct gown size (height and weight measurements).
- Cap sizing (circumference of the head).
- Potential for alterations (if needed).
- Cost Considerations:
- Average price ranges for different gown types and materials.
- Factors that influence the price (e.g., customization, quality of materials).
Etiquette and Dress Code for Graduation Day
This section focuses on the expected behavior and attire guidelines.
- What to Wear Underneath:
- Recommended attire for comfort and appropriate appearance (e.g., collared shirt, dress pants, dress, comfortable shoes).
- Considerations for the weather (layers, lightweight fabrics).
- Accessories:
- Acceptable and unacceptable accessories (e.g., jewelry, pins, decorative items).
- Guidelines regarding shoes (comfortable and professional).
- General Etiquette:
- Proper behavior during the ceremony (e.g., respecting speakers, remaining seated).
- Photography guidelines (when and where photos are permitted).
Caring for Your Cap and Gown After Graduation
This part provides guidance on how to maintain the regalia.
- Cleaning Instructions:
- Recommended cleaning methods (e.g., dry cleaning, spot cleaning).
- Precautions to avoid damaging the fabric.
- Storage:
- Proper storage techniques to prevent wrinkles and damage (e.g., hanging in a garment bag).
- Storing the tassel and hood separately to prevent tangling or crushing.
Customization Options for Bachelor’s Degree Regalia
This section covers ways graduates can personalize their attire.
- Stoles:
- Recognition of academic achievements.
- Membership in honor societies.
- Involvement in campus organizations.
- Cords:
- Similar to stoles, recognizing accomplishments and affiliations.
- Pins and Medals:
- Representing specific honors or awards.
- University Emblems:
- Adding university-specific insignia to the gown or cap.
- Ensure customizations comply with university guidelines.
Future Uses of Your Bachelor’s Degree Cap and Gown
- Graduate School:
- Reusing the gown for master’s or doctoral graduation ceremonies (with appropriate modifications).
- Alumni Events:
- Wearing the gown for special university gatherings or celebrations.
- Display and Preservation:
- Creative ways to display the regalia as a keepsake.
- Options for donating the gown to future graduates.
This structure provides a comprehensive and informative guide to understanding and utilizing a bachelor’s degree cap and gown.
Bachelor’s Degree Cap & Gown FAQs
These frequently asked questions provide quick answers about your bachelor’s degree cap and gown.
What exactly is included in a bachelor’s degree cap and gown set?
A complete bachelor’s degree cap and gown set typically includes the gown itself, the cap (also known as a mortarboard), and the tassel. Depending on your university or field of study, you may also need a hood.
How do I determine the correct size for my bachelor’s degree cap and gown?
Gown sizes are generally based on your height. Most retailers provide a size chart, so accurately measure your height and refer to the chart to find the appropriate size for your bachelor’s degree cap and gown.
Can I customize my bachelor’s degree cap?
Many graduates choose to decorate their bachelor’s degree cap with personal messages, designs, or symbols. Check with your university for any restrictions on cap decorations before making any alterations.
Where can I purchase a bachelor’s degree cap and gown?
You can usually purchase your bachelor’s degree cap and gown through your university bookstore or from online academic apparel retailers. Make sure to order well in advance of your graduation ceremony to allow for shipping and any necessary alterations.
And there you have it! Everything you need to know about your bachelor’s degree cap and gown. Go rock that graduation stage!