UM Academic Attire: A Simple Guide

Oct 31, 2025 by Jhon Lennon 35 views

Hey guys! Preparing for graduation or a special academic event at the University of Michigan (UM)? Understanding how to properly wear your academic attire is super important. It's not just about throwing on a gown; there's a tradition and protocol to follow. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to look and feel confident in your academic regalia.

Understanding the Components of Academic Attire

Before we dive into the how-to, let's break down the different parts of the academic attire. Knowing what each piece signifies will help you appreciate the tradition behind it.

The Gown: The gown is probably the most recognizable piece. The style of the gown varies depending on the degree you're receiving. Bachelor's gowns typically have long, pointed sleeves. Master's gowns feature oblong sleeves with slits for the arms to pass through (or not!). Doctoral gowns are the fanciest, with bell-shaped sleeves and velvet panels down the front. The velvet panels are a key identifier for doctoral gowns, setting them apart with a touch of elegance and distinction. These panels often come in different colors that represent the field of study. For example, dark blue usually represents philosophy, while light blue signifies education. At UM, the specific design and tailoring of these gowns adhere to a tradition that reflects both the university's history and the broader standards of academic dress. The length, cut, and fabric weight of the gown are all carefully considered to ensure uniformity and a dignified appearance. When wearing the gown, make sure it hangs evenly and that the front panels are smooth. Avoid bunching or wrinkling, as this can detract from the overall look. The gown should be worn over appropriate attire, which we'll discuss later, to ensure a complete and respectful presentation. Ultimately, the gown represents years of hard work and dedication, so wearing it correctly is a sign of respect for your achievements and the academic community.
The Hood: The hood is a colorful accessory draped over your shoulders, and it's arguably the most informative part of the attire. The lining of the hood displays the colors of the institution that granted the degree (for UM, that's maize and blue!). The velvet trim indicates the field of study. For instance, a purple trim represents law, while a green trim signifies medicine. The hood's size also varies with the degree, with doctoral hoods being the longest and most elaborate. Positioning the hood correctly is crucial for a polished appearance. The velvet trim should be prominently displayed, and the lining should be visible as it drapes down the back. Many gowns have a loop or cord to help secure the hood and keep it in place. Make sure to use this to prevent the hood from slipping or shifting during the ceremony. The hood is not just a decorative element; it's a symbol of your academic discipline and the institution where you earned your degree. The colors and materials are carefully chosen to represent your specific field of study, making it a powerful visual representation of your academic journey.
The Cap (Mortarboard): The mortarboard, or cap, is the flat, square hat. It's generally black, and it's worn by candidates of all degrees. A tassel is attached to the center of the cap. For bachelor's and master's candidates, the tassel typically starts on the right side and is moved to the left upon graduation. Doctoral candidates usually wear the tassel on the left side throughout the ceremony. Wearing the cap correctly involves ensuring it sits flat on your head, parallel to the ground. The front edge of the cap should align with your forehead, and the back edge should be level with the crown of your head. Adjust the cap as needed to ensure a comfortable and secure fit. The tassel, often made of silk or rayon, adds a touch of elegance to the cap. For undergraduates, the tradition of moving the tassel from right to left symbolizes the transition from candidate to graduate. For doctoral candidates, the tassel remains on the left, signifying their achieved status. The cap is a universal symbol of academic achievement, representing the culmination of years of study and the attainment of a degree. Wearing it correctly is a sign of respect for the tradition and the academic community.
The Tassel: As mentioned above, the tassel's placement matters! It usually starts on the right for undergrads and moves to the left after the degree is conferred. Doctoral students typically wear it on the left from the start. The color can also indicate the field of study, although black is the most common. The tassel is a small but significant detail in academic attire, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. The act of moving the tassel from right to left is a symbolic gesture, marking the completion of studies and the attainment of a degree. The color of the tassel can also hold significance, with different colors representing various academic disciplines. For example, gold tassels are often worn by those graduating with honors or in specific fields such as business or accounting. The tassel is typically made of silk or rayon and is attached to the center of the mortarboard. Ensure the tassel hangs neatly and doesn't obstruct your vision. It's a small detail, but it adds a touch of elegance and tradition to the overall academic attire.

Step-by-Step Guide to Wearing Your Academic Attire

Alright, let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Here's a step-by-step guide to putting on your academic attire correctly:

Start with the Right Clothing: What you wear underneath your gown is important. Aim for professional attire. For men, this usually means a dark suit or dress pants with a collared shirt and tie. For women, a dress, skirt and blouse, or pantsuit are all good options. Avoid anything too casual like jeans or t-shirts. Also, keep in mind the weather – graduation ceremonies can be long, and you'll want to be comfortable. Choose lightweight, breathable fabrics to avoid overheating under the gown. Proper footwear is also essential. Opt for comfortable dress shoes that you can stand in for an extended period. Avoid overly flashy or distracting accessories that might detract from the formal nature of the occasion. The goal is to present a polished and professional appearance, so choose clothing that complements the academic attire and reflects the significance of the event.
Put on the Gown: Slip the gown over your head like a robe. Make sure it hangs evenly. If you have a doctoral gown with velvet panels, ensure they lie flat. When putting on the gown, be mindful of the sleeves and ensure they are properly aligned. Bachelor's gowns have long, pointed sleeves, while master's gowns have oblong sleeves with slits. Doctoral gowns have bell-shaped sleeves, which should hang loosely. Adjust the gown as needed to ensure it drapes evenly and doesn't bunch up or wrinkle. The gown should be worn over your professional attire, providing a layer of formality and tradition. Take your time to ensure the gown fits comfortably and looks presentable. After all, the gown is a symbol of your academic achievement and should be worn with pride and respect.
Drape the Hood: This can be a little tricky, so maybe practice beforehand! The hood goes over your head with the velvet trim facing outward. The lining (with the UM colors) should be visible on your back. Some gowns have a loop or clasp to help secure the hood to your clothing. Draping the hood correctly is crucial for a polished appearance. The velvet trim should be prominently displayed, and the lining, with the University of Michigan colors, should be visible as it drapes down the back. Ensure the hood sits comfortably on your shoulders and doesn't slip or shift during the ceremony. Many gowns have a loop or cord to help secure the hood and keep it in place. Use this to prevent the hood from falling off or becoming misaligned. The hood is not just a decorative element; it's a symbol of your academic discipline and the institution where you earned your degree. Take your time to adjust the hood until it looks perfect, as it's an important part of your academic attire.
Don the Cap: Place the mortarboard on your head, making sure it's level. The front edge should be parallel to the ground. Secure it with bobby pins if needed. The cap should fit snugly but not too tightly, and it should sit comfortably on your head. The front edge of the cap should align with your forehead, and the back edge should be level with the crown of your head. Adjust the cap as needed to ensure a secure and comfortable fit. If you have long hair, you may want to use bobby pins to keep the cap in place. The cap is a universal symbol of academic achievement, representing the culmination of years of study and the attainment of a degree. Wearing it correctly is a sign of respect for the tradition and the academic community. Make sure the cap is clean and free of any wrinkles or blemishes before wearing it.
Adjust the Tassel: Before the ceremony, the tassel usually hangs on the right side for bachelor's and master's candidates. After you receive your degree, you'll move it to the left. Doctoral candidates typically keep the tassel on the left throughout the ceremony. The tassel is a small but significant detail in academic attire, symbolizing the transition from student to graduate. For undergraduates, the tradition of moving the tassel from right to left is a symbolic gesture, marking the completion of studies and the attainment of a degree. For doctoral candidates, the tassel remains on the left, signifying their achieved status. The tassel should hang neatly and not obstruct your vision. Ensure it's properly attached to the center of the mortarboard and that it doesn't get tangled or damaged. The color of the tassel can also hold significance, with different colors representing various academic disciplines. Pay attention to the instructions provided during the ceremony regarding the tassel, and follow them carefully to ensure you participate in the tradition correctly.

Tips for Looking Your Best

Iron or Steam Your Gown: Wrinkles are a no-no. A crisp, clean gown shows respect for the occasion.
Wear Comfortable Shoes: You'll be doing a lot of standing and walking. Choose shoes that won't leave you with blisters.
Keep Accessories Minimal: Let the academic attire be the star of the show. Avoid flashy jewelry or distracting hairstyles.
Practice Walking in Your Attire: Gowns can be a bit cumbersome, so get used to walking in it before the big day.
Check with Your University: UM may have specific guidelines or requirements for academic attire, so be sure to check with your department or graduation office.

A Few Extra Pointers

Check the Weather: If it is raining, consider bringing an umbrella that is plain and does not clash with your attire.

Stay Hydrated: Graduation ceremonies can be lengthy, so remember to stay hydrated. Bring a water bottle if allowed, or take advantage of any breaks to drink water.

Be Mindful of Your Posture: Maintain good posture while wearing your academic attire. Stand tall and avoid slouching, as this will help you look more confident and presentable.

Thank You: Be sure to thank the faculty and staff who have supported you throughout your academic journey. A simple thank you can go a long way in showing your appreciation.

Have Fun: Graduation is a momentous occasion, so remember to relax and enjoy the celebration. Take photos with your friends and family, and cherish the memories of this special day.

Conclusion

Wearing academic attire is a significant part of graduation and other academic ceremonies. By understanding the components and following these steps, you'll be well-prepared to look and feel your best. Congrats, future grads! Go Blue! And remember to take lots of pictures to remember this special day!