Graduation attire and the rest of the regalia speak a lot of tradition, culture and history. Hence, it is no wonder why universities and colleges today keep the fire of these symbols burning. However, from the time the first graduation caps and gown were worn to this time, a lot of things have changed. Find out the history of this regalia and its journey to the modern world.

 

The wearing of cheap graduation robes started during the 12^th century, the time when most of the universities are being born to the world. At that time, both students and teachers wore a clerical garb as their standard dress. This idea was formulated because of the need of scholars to ward off the cold.

 

In 1321, almost all the universities had mandated that all of the Bachelors, Licentiates and Doctors wear these gowns. Shortly afterwards, it was forbidden for scholars to wear any excess apparel than the long gown. In fact, during King Henry VIII’s time, Oxford and Cambridge Universities had controlled all the details of this academic regalia.

 

In 1800, colors were assigned to speak of the different areas of study being attended by the scholars. However, this was only true for the universities and colleges in the United States. All American institutions adopted a definite system of the gown because of Leonard of Albany. The caps are mandated to be worn with the gown and the caps must be made of broadcloth, silk, rayon, or cotton poplin as long as they match the gowns. The velvet fabric during those times was only allowed to be used by the Doctors.

 

 

Though a lot of things have changed when it comes to robes for graduation, a lot of the traditions and rules are still observed today. With the definite system being adopted by almost all universities and colleges today, the academic regalia can be easily purchased or rented nowadays.

 

One of the most convenient ways on how to purchase or rent a gown is through the Internet. There are a lot of online shops that can cater to your needs in no time. In fact, when you place an order today, it can be delivered to your doorstep immediately the next day or a few days from today. With the rise of online shops, it becomes easier for people to browse selections of colors, designs and styles for their academic regalia.

 

Another convenient way of renting or purchasing academic regalia today is through newspapers. The classified ads section of local newspapers can be a good source of people selling or renting their very own regalia. What is good about this kind of purchase or rental is that you get your regalia at a low price. However, make sure that the regalia fall under the guidelines required by your school.

 

 

It is very interesting on how the academic regalia have travelled from the past to the present world. From the simple long gowns, the regalia are available in almost every corner of the modern world and speak of great meaning to everyone.