Fun Facts about Wearing Caps and Gowns for Graduations
In a graduation ceremony, students are usually required to wear the traditional graduation cap and gown. They attend the ceremony in a nice robe and receive their diploma on stage. Graduation day is synonymous to success, pride and achievement. It is what students have worked hard for. Hence, when graduation day comes, students can’t help but feel proud, especially their parents. This gave a new symbolism to the attire worn during graduation ceremonies. Graduation caps and gowns are not mere costumes anymore but a dress that signifies respect and glory.
The Origin of the Tradition
The practice of wearing caps and gowns actually started in the 12th century. The schools and universities in Europe during this time were already established. Degrees and certificates were also distributed among students once they have completed all the levels in their academic studies. During this period, there were no buildings to occupy students. So they used the cold walls of churches and monasteries. Students keep themselves warm by wearing thick, black robes and hoods. Basically, this is where the tradition started.
A century later, gowns were required to be the formal dress code for some established schools. Since then, it has become quite common to see students wearing gowns. The gowns and caps were also used to identify the level and field of study of the student. Different styles, colors and designs were used to create distinction for each department. From this, further innovations were made and they started to consider wearing colorful caps and gowns fir graduations.
The freedom schools and universities provided students and faculties countless design and color options for their gowns and caps. This has been the trend until the Intercollegiate Commission was founded in 1895. The main goal of this institution is to unite all the different standards universities and colleges had in terms of wearing and designing gowns. These standards are now known as the intercollegiate code, although these are still bound to change due to modernization.
If you have witnessed a graduation ceremony, notice that there are certain colors for each department or field of study. These colors are also derived from the intercollegiate dress code. Although it may seem a bit peculiar that there are groups out there that implement certain 19th century rules, having an intercollegiate code is very important in maintaining uniformity and unity.
Where to Find Affordable Graduation Caps and Gowns
If you are searching for cheap academic cap and gown, the best places to visit is a second-hand store. Second hand stores have a vast selection of used dress. There are no damages to these dresses. Shopkeepers make sure they are undamaged and refreshed before they put them in display. In fact, you could resell your graduation dress on the same store if you don’t want to keep yours. Alternatively, browse various websites online to find thousands of sales. These stores usually offer good discount on their products.