The University Gown
Discover our collection of University Toges for graduation ceremonies
University Toga Pack
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Choosing your toga: An important decision
The university gown and the graduation ceremony dress are a reflection of a journey, a sense of belonging and a celebration of success.
They link graduates not only to their institution, but also to a wider community of thinkers, innovators and leaders.
It is this wealth of meaning that makes the toga a garment charged with history and the future.
Selection criteria for a toga
Choosing the right graduation dress is essential. In France, the criteria include not only quality and style, but also suitability for the colours and emblems of the educational institution.
Selecting the university gown is a crucial step for students preparing to celebrate their academic success.
In France, this decision is guided by rigorous criteria that reflect the importance of this event.
Here's a more in-depth look at the criteria for selecting a toga:
Fabric quality
The quality of the fabric is essential. A good toga should be made from a strong, comfortable material that sits well on the shoulders and lasts over time.
Traditional fabrics such as wool or velvet are often preferred for their elegance and durability.
Style and fit
The style of the gown must be both traditional and adapted to the student's body type. The cut must allow for ease of movement and impeccable presentation.
In France, gowns are often customised to fit the figure of each graduate.
Suitability for the institution
Each educational institution in France has its own dress code for graduation ceremonies.
The gown must therefore match the colours and emblems of the university or school. This may include specific details such as coloured borders, epitogies or coats of arms.
Respect for academic traditions
The gown must respect French academic traditions. This means that it must often incorporate historical elements, such as square caps (mortars) or bonnets, which have symbolic significance and vary according to the level of degree obtained.
Comfort and convenience
Comfort is also an important criterion. The gown must be light enough to be worn throughout the ceremony without causing discomfort. It should also be easy to put on and take off.
Customisation
The ability to personalise the toga is an increasingly sought-after criterion. Students may wish to add elements that reflect their personal achievements, such as ribbons for honours or badges for extracurricular activities.
Choosing the right university gown in France requires thought and attention to detail, because the gown is not just a ceremonial garment, it is a symbol of pride and belonging to a prestigious educational community.
Toga customisation and accessories
Personalising the university gown is a tradition that allows graduates to celebrate their unique achievements and showcase their honours.
In France, this personalisation takes several forms, each with a particular meaning.
Epitogies and Accessories: Symbols of Distinction
EpitomesThese strips of fabric hanging from the shoulders are often coloured differently depending on the subject studied or the level of the degree.
For example, a blue epithet might indicate a degree in philosophy, while a green epithet might mean a degree in medicine.
These accessories not only quickly identify the graduate's field of study, but also celebrate their efforts and specialisation.
Medals and Insignia: Celebrating Success
Medals and badges are little touches that add personality. They're given for really impressive things, like getting summa cum laude, or for doing something important at university, like being active in student clubs or working on research projects.
These decorations are worn with pride and reflect each student's individual career path.
Monograms and Embroidery: A Personal Touch
Embroidering the graduate's name or year of graduation on the gown is a great way to add a personal touch.
Some graduates also choose to have their university or school monogram embroidered, reinforcing their sense of belonging to their alma mater.
Caps and Mortars: Respect for Tradition
The caps and mortars are traditional elements of the toga that can also be personalised. The bonnet, often in a different colour depending on the discipline, is worn on the back and can be adorned with ribbons or fringes.
Mortar, or square hatA tassel representing the colour of the university or faculty may be added.
Choice of fabric and cut: Comfort and elegance
Finally, personalising the gown can include the choice of fabric and cut. Some graduates opt for lighter fabrics or tailored cuts for greater comfort and a more elegant appearance at the ceremony.
Personalising the university gown is a way for graduates to celebrate their academic identity, highlight their achievements and pay tribute to their educational journey. We invite you to click here for more practical advice on choosing your perfect university gown.
The different types of university gowns
Toges by level of study
In France, the university gown is a key element of graduation ceremonies, and varies significantly depending on the level of study attained by the student. Here's a more in-depth look at the specific features of gowns for each level of study:
Licence gown
The undergraduate gown is often the simplest of the three. It is usually black, symbolising the sobriety and seriousness of entering the university world.
The gown may be embellished with a coloured border or epitoge, often in satin, to indicate the student's main discipline. For example, a yellow border may represent literature, while a red border may indicate law.
Master's gown
The Master's gown is slightly more elaborate than the Bachelor's gown. It may feature additional details, such as longer sleeves or double epitomes, to reflect the higher level of skill and specialisation achieved.
The colours may vary to indicate sub-disciplines or particular distinctions obtained during the master's course.
Doctorate gown
The doctrole toga is the most distinguished and complex. It is often made from richer fabrics and may include elements such as velvet or embroidery.
The doctoral gown is also accompanied by a special hat, the doctor's cap, which is a distinctive sign of this high level of academic achievement.
Epitomes are generally larger and may include motifs or symbols related to the student's research discipline.
Accessories and customisation
For all levels of study, it is common practice to add personalised accessories, such as medals or ribbons, to mark specific achievements or roles within the university, such as membership of honorary societies or research groups.
Symbolism and Tradition
Every element of the gown, from its colour to its shape, is charged with symbolism. The traditions vary from one university to another, but the aim remains the same: to celebrate the student's academic achievements and mark their passage to a new stage in their professional and personal life.
The university gown in France is a garment rich in tradition and meaning.
The university gown is a visual reflection of the path taken by students and their entry into the world of graduates, click here here to discover their symbolism and much more.
Colours and meanings
The colours of the university gowns and graduation dresses in France are not chosen at random; they reflect an established code that quickly identifies the graduate's academic discipline.
Here's a more in-depth look at the meaning of colours in the French academic context:
The Academic Colour Code
Meaning of Colours by Discipline
Arts and Letters
Each academic discipline is associated with a specific colour, which is often used for the epitomes, borders or linings of the gowns.
This colour code helps to distinguish the different fields of study at graduation ceremonies and highlights the diversity of knowledge represented.
White is traditionally associated with the arts and literature, symbolising the purity of thought and the blank page of creative writing.
Law
Red, the colour of passion and power, is often associated with the law, reflecting the authority and rigour of this discipline.
Sciences
Yellow or gold represents the sciences, evoking the light of knowledge and the preciousness of scientific discoveries.
Medicine
Green, the colour of life and health, is traditionally used in medicine, symbolising hope and renewal.
Economics and Management
Blue, the colour of confidence and responsibility, is often chosen for these disciplines, reflecting stability and clarity.
The Importance of Colours in Ceremony
Colours are not just used to differentiate between disciplines; they also add a visual dimension to the graduation ceremony.
They create a colourful show that celebrates the richness and variety of academic backgrounds.
The colours of graduation gowns and dresses in France are an essential part of the academic tradition. They are charged with meaning and contribute to the solemn and festive atmosphere of the ceremony.
It is an elegant and symbolic way of celebrating academic achievements and recognising the contribution of each field to the overall body of knowledge.
How do you wear a toga with elegance?
Style tips for men and women
Wearing a university gown with elegance is an art. In France, this means respecting certain conventions, while adding a personal touch that respects the solemn nature of the event.
Wearing a university gown with elegance at a graduation ceremony is a tradition that requires attention to detail and respect for protocol.
Here are some style tips for men and women to ensure a polished and appropriate appearance for this solemn event in France.
For Women:
The dress or outfit underneath :
Choose a simple, elegant dress or outfit that does not exceed the length of the gown. Neutral or dark colours are preferable to avoid distracting attention from the gown itself.
Shoes :
Choose comfortable, formal shoes. Heels are acceptable, but it's important to consider comfort, as you'll be on your feet for a long time.
Jewellery :
Keep jewellery discreet and elegant. A watch, a slender necklace or small earrings can complete your outfit without overdoing it.
La Coiffure :
A neat, professional hairstyle is recommended. Tying your hair back or putting it up in a low bun is a good option to avoid it being crushed by the mortarboard (hat).
For the Men:
The Shirt and Tie :
A button-down shirt in a neutral colour with a sober tie is ideal. Make sure the tie doesn't contrast too much with the gown.
The Trousers :
Dark suit trousers or chinos are appropriate. Avoid jeans or trousers that are too casual.
Shoes :
Well-polished dress shoes are the perfect complement to your outfit. Black shoes are generally a safe choice.
Accessories :
A discreet watch and a belt to match your shoes can add a touch of refinement to your outfit.
General Councils :
– Respect the Codes: Make sure your outfit complies with the dress codes set by your institution.
– Preparation : Try on your gown and outfit beforehand to make sure everything fits properly and is comfortable.
– Sobriety : Bear in mind the formal nature of the event. Sobriety and elegance should take precedence over bold fashion choices.
By following these tips, everyone will be able to wear their university gown with pride and elegance, while respecting academic traditions. Click here to find out more tips and honour the solemn nature of the graduation ceremony.
Mistakes to avoid on the day of the ceremony
At a graduation ceremony, it is essential to maintain the dignity and respect of the event.
In France, where the academic tradition is deeply rooted, it is important to be careful not to make certain mistakes that could detract from the solemnity of the ceremony. Here are a few mistakes to avoid:
Neglecting the Dress Code
Inappropriate dress :
Wearing clothes that are too casual or too extravagant under the toga can be seen as a lack of respect for the importance of the event.
Inadequate accessories :
Choosing accessories that are too flashy or do not conform to the institution's guidelines can distract attention from the formal aspects of the ceremony.
Incorrect handling of the gown
Incorrect wearing of the gown :
The gown must be worn correctly, with the epitogies and mortarboard (hat) adjusted as required. An ill-fitting gown can give an impression of casualness.
Modification of the Toga :
Making unauthorised personal alterations to the gown, such as cutting or adding fabric, can go against academic traditions.
Inappropriate behaviour
Lack of seriousness:
Loud behaviour, excessive joking or the use of mobile phones during the ceremony may be considered disrespectful.
Late or absent :
Arriving late for the ceremony or being unprepared can disrupt the event and be disrespectful to the organisers and other graduates.
Forgetting academic traditions
Not following the rituals of the ceremony, such as moments of silence, applause at the right moment, or respecting the order of passage, can be perceived as a lack of knowledge or respect for traditions.
In short, to maintain the dignity of the graduation ceremony, it is essential to respect dress codes, wear gowns and accessories appropriately, behave respectfully and follow established academic traditions.
The University gown beyond the graduation ceremony
Reuse of the university gown
In addition to its primary role at graduation ceremonies, the university gown can also be reused or kept as an object of sentimental value.
In France, where academic traditions are deeply rooted, the toga can take on a variety of meanings after graduation day.
Conservation as Remembrance
Many graduates choose to keep their gown as a memento of their academic success. It's a tangible reminder of the efforts made and the highlights of their university career.
The toga can be carefully stored, sometimes in a special frame or box, and displayed in an office or at home as a symbol of pride and achievement.
Reuse in Academic Events
Loan or donation
Some graduates may choose to lend or donate their gowns to students who need them for their own graduation ceremonies.
This can be particularly significant if the toga is given to a family member or close friend, creating a tradition and a link between generations or classmates.
The gown can also be reused at other formal academic events.
For example, doctors and professors often wear their gowns at conferences, official ceremonies and thesis defences.
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Recycling for charitable causes
It is also possible to donate the gown to charities that organise graduation ceremonies for people who have not had the opportunity to experience the event.
This allows the toga to serve a noble cause and help celebrate the success of others.
Conversion to Other Fashion Items
Finally, some graduates may choose to transform their toga into another fashion or decorative item.
With the help of a fashion designer or craftsman, the toga can be reinvented as a scarf, cushion or other object that retains the spirit of its success while adding a new functionality.
The university gown can have many lives after the graduation ceremony. Whether as a souvenir, for future events, or transformed for a new use, it remains a lasting symbol of the university experience and achievements in France.
The toga as a family heirloom
In addition to its role in graduation ceremonies, the university gown can acquire sentimental and symbolic value as a family heirloom.
In France, where education is highly valued and traditions are cherished, the toga can represent a tangible link between generations and a testament to the family's commitment to knowledge and academic excellence.
Transmission of a Knowledge Symbol
Continuity of Family Traditions
The toga as a family heirloom is also a way of perpetuating traditions. It can be worn by family members at their own graduation ceremonies, creating a visual and emotional continuity that reinforces the feeling of belonging to an educational lineage.
When passed down from generation to generation, the toga becomes a family symbol of the pursuit of knowledge and achievement. It embodies the educational values and aspirations that parents wish to pass on to their children.
It's a way of celebrating past successes while encouraging future generations to continue their own educational quest.
Tribute to the Ancestors
By keeping and passing on the toga, families pay tribute to their ancestors and their heritage. It is a recognition of the efforts and sacrifices made by previous generations to provide educational opportunities for their descendants.
Customisation over time
Over time, the toga can be personalised to reflect the achievements of each generation. Embroidery, badges or ribbons can be added to mark individual distinctions, while retaining the essence of the family heritage.
A strong emotional bond
As a family heirloom, the university gown is imbued with emotions and memories. It can be a reminder of proud moments, celebrations and milestones in life. It is an object that, far more than its appearance, carries with it the stories and hopes of a family.
The university gown in France is a symbol of the importance of education and pride in studies. It represents a link between family members and their commitment to learning. It is also a heritage that shows how education and family traditions have been valued over time.
Closing remarks :
The university gown is much more than just a piece of ceremonial clothing; it's a genuine investment in the future.
In France, it symbolises not only the conclusion of an educational chapter, but also the start of a new professional and personal adventure.
It embodies the graduates' commitment to a future full of promise and leaves a lasting mark on their careers, reinforcing their sense of achievement and pride in their academic success.
In this way, the toga stands as a bridge between the honoured past and the future to be conquered, bearing witness to the transition to new horizons and the profound impact of education on people's lives.
FAQ
What types of gowns do you offer?
We offer a variety of gowns for all academic occasions, including graduation ceremonies, lectures, and special events. Our gowns are available for professors, academics and doctoral students.
Can I personalise my toga?
Absolutely! We offer a range of customisation options so that your gown perfectly reflects your academic background and personal preferences.
How long does it take to make a personalised toga?
Production times vary according to the complexity of the personalisation. In general, you should allow between 2 and 4 weeks to receive your made-to-measure gown.
Do you offer discounts for group orders?
Yes, we offer preferential rates for bulk orders, ideal for universities or associations.
How do I look after my toga?
Gowns should be dry-cleaned to preserve their quality. Avoid machine washing and ironing at high temperatures.
What is your returns policy?
We accept returns under certain conditions. If you are not satisfied with your purchase, please contact us within 14 days of receipt to arrange a return or exchange.
How can I place an order?
You can place your order directly on our website or by email for personalised assistance.
What is the average price of a university gown?
Prices vary according to style, personalisation and fabric. See our catalogue for more details.
What fabric is used for university gowns?
Gowns are generally made from high-quality polyester, velvet or blended fabrics.
Are university gowns reusable?
Absolutely, our gowns are designed to be worn several times and kept as souvenirs.
Can I buy a university gown outside the graduation period?
Absolutely, our online shop is open all year round for your purchases.
