How to Wear a Hood for a Graduation Robe

Graduation marks the accomplishment of a large goal -- completing your college degree. Some graduates who have participated in an academic society or who have reached a high academic achievement receive the right to wear a graduation hood over their graduation gown. Each degree level has a different hood style, while different disciplines are assigned different colors of velvet, according to Caps and Gown. Based on a tradition dating from the 14th century, today's scholars indicate their academic achievements with graduation hoods.

Things You'll Need

• Graduation gown with hood

Instructions

1. Place the graduation hood over your head so it drapes down off your shoulders and down the back of your graduation gown. Position the velvet border to the outside of the hood.

2. Turn the hood's lining out, away from your gown, so the color is visible. Ask a friend to help you turn the trim to the outside, below your shoulders.

3. Fasten the hood's cord to a button on your shirt or dress so the back of the hood won't ride up on your neck. If you don't have a button to which to secure the cord, attach it to the zipper on your graduation gown.

Tips & Warnings

• Wear business clothing under your graduation gown. Men, wear dress pants, a dress shirt, tie and dress shoes; women, wear a dress with low-heeled shoes.

References

• Marston Robing: What to Wear With Your Graduation Robes
• Academic Apparel: High School Graduation Dress
• Caps and Gown: Academic Hoods