A cap and gown should fit comfortably and allow for easy movement, primarily designed to be billowy and not form-fitting. The gown should hang loosely, and the cap should sit securely and level on your head, ensuring you look dignified and prepared for your graduation ceremony.
Understanding the Ideal Gown Fit
The graduation gown is traditionally designed for comfort and a sense of formality, rather than a tailored look. It's important to remember that these garments are meant to billow, so experiencing extra material around your body is completely normal.
Key Aspects of Gown Fit:
- Length: Your gown should typically fall to about mid-calf or just below the knee. It should not drag on the ground, nor should it be too short, revealing too much of your attire underneath.
- Sleeves: Expect the sleeves to billow and provide plenty of room for movement. Ideally, the sleeves should end somewhere between your fingers and your forearm, ensuring they don't impede your hands or dangle excessively.
- Shoulders and Body: The gown should fit comfortably across your shoulders without feeling tight or restrictive. As mentioned, the gown is meant to billow, so a relaxed, roomy fit around your torso is standard and desired.
For more detailed information on academic regalia, you might refer to guides provided by institutions like Herff Jones or Jostens.
Achieving the Perfect Cap Fit
The graduation cap, or mortarboard, is a distinct part of your regalia and should be worn correctly for both comfort and appearance.
Key Aspects of Cap Fit:
- Placement: The cap should sit level on your head, approximately one inch above your eyebrows. It should feel snug enough to stay put without causing discomfort or leaving marks.
- Orientation: For the correct look, wear your graduation cap with the point of the band positioned at the back of your head. This ensures the front of the cap is broad and flat.
- Tassel: The tassel is traditionally worn on the right side of the cap before you receive your degree. After your degree is conferred, you will move the tassel to the left side, symbolizing your new graduate status.
General Tips for a Flawless Look
To ensure your cap and gown look their best on your special day, consider these practical insights:
1. Sizing Correctly
When ordering, base your gown size on your height. Most suppliers offer size charts that correlate height ranges with gown sizes. If you are between sizes, consider the larger option for a more comfortable, billowy fit.
2. What to Wear Underneath
- Comfortable Clothing: Opt for light, comfortable clothes that won't add bulk or make you overheat, as gowns can be warm.
- Formal Attire: Many graduates choose business casual or semi-formal attire, such as a dress shirt and tie, a dress, or slacks and a blouse, as these might be visible if the gown shifts or if you remove it for photos.
- Footwear: Wear comfortable shoes, as you may be standing or walking for extended periods. Avoid excessively high heels if you are not accustomed to them.
3. Steaming and Wrinkle Release
Gowns often arrive folded and can be wrinkled. Hang your gown in advance and use a garment steamer or hang it in a steamy bathroom to release wrinkles. Avoid direct ironing on most gown materials, as high heat can damage them.
4. Securing Your Cap
If you have very silky hair, or if your cap feels a bit loose, bobby pins can be a discrete way to secure it to your hair, especially for photos or windy conditions.
Summary of Fit Guidelines
| Garment | Key Fit Point | Detail |
|---|---|---|
| Gown | Length | Mid-calf or just below the knee; should not drag. |
| Sleeves | Between fingers and forearm; billowy with room for movement. | |
| Body | Billowy and roomy; extra material is normal. | |
| Cap | Placement | Sits level, about one inch above eyebrows. |
| Orientation | Point of the band at the back of the head. | |
| Tassel | Right side before degree, left side after. |
By following these guidelines, you'll ensure your cap and gown fit appropriately, allowing you to focus on celebrating your significant achievement.
