Graduation day marks a significant academic milestone, celebrated with the traditional attire known as regalia. This ensemble, typically consisting of a cap, gown, stole, and honor cords, visually represents years of dedication and achievement. Wearing these items correctly ensures that the symbols of your hard work are displayed with proper visibility during the ceremony. Understanding the specific guidelines for each piece helps graduates present a polished and appropriate appearance.
Step-by-Step Guide to Wearing the Stole
The stole is the first piece of decorative regalia, worn directly over the graduation gown. Begin by draping the stole around the back of the neck, ensuring the fabric lies flat against the gown. The point where the two sides meet should form a neat “V” shape, centered precisely along the spine to ensure symmetry.
Once centered, the two ends of the stole should hang parallel and evenly down the front of the gown. Check that the length is symmetrical, as uneven ends can look distracting. If the stole features any embroidery, lettering, or seals, confirm that these elements are facing outward and are fully visible.
To prevent the stole from shifting or slipping off the shoulders, use a small, discreet safety pin. Secure the pin on the inside of the gown, attaching the stole fabric to the gown’s shoulder seam or collar area. This provides stability throughout the ceremony.
Correct Placement and Layering of Honor Cords
Honor cords are typically worn directly over the stole, making them the outermost layer of the neck regalia. Place the cord around the back of the neck, ensuring the central knot or braid rests comfortably just above the stole’s V-point. The tassels should hang straight down the front of the gown, ideally reaching a length between the waist and the knee, maintaining an even length on both sides.
Graduates who have earned multiple cords often need to manage several sets without creating a bulky appearance. A common technique involves grouping two or three cords together at the back of the neck before draping them over the shoulders. For a more distinct display, stagger the cords slightly, allowing the highest honor cord to rest on top of the others.
If the cords are particularly long or made of slippery material, use a small safety pin to secure them to the inside of the gown at the back of the neck. This internal anchor point keeps the cords from shifting laterally and helps the tassels remain neatly separated. Checking the alignment in a mirror before the ceremony ensures proper presentation.
Symbolism and Essential Day-of Tips
The regalia worn during the ceremony carries symbolic meaning, representing specific achievements and affiliations. Stoles often denote membership in a particular department, cultural organization, or program of study. Honor cords are reserved for recognizing academic excellence, such as graduating with Latin honors or membership in an honor society. The specific colors of the cords and stoles are often codified, with gold frequently signifying the highest levels of academic distinction.
Before the ceremony, consult the specific guidelines provided by the institution, as rules regarding regalia can vary. Practicing the full ensemble, including the cap, gown, stole, and cords, ensures comfort and familiarity with the fit. To achieve a neat appearance, the gown and stole should be steamed or ironed on a low setting to remove any wrinkles. Graduates should also plan to wear light, comfortable clothing underneath the gown, preferably in dark colors that will not show through the fabric.