The licence gown is much more than just a piece of clothing; it's a powerful symbol of academic achievement and success. Wearing this gown marks the end of an intense chapter and the beginning of new adventures. Among types of university gownsThe undergraduate gown has its own unique meaning and traditions. Whether you are about to choose one, wear it for the first time, or seek to understand the traditions surrounding it, this practical guide will give you all the keys you need to make the most of this memorable stage in your university career.
In this article, we'll look at the criteria for selecting a licence gown, tips on how to wear it elegantly, the options for buying or renting, and post-ceremony care. Let's dive into the fascinating world of the licence gown!
Choosing your licence gown
Colours
The colours of undergraduate gowns vary considerably according to academic disciplines and university traditions. For example, blue is often associated with the humanities, green with the natural sciences and red with law. Similarly, the Master's gown has its own unique colour codes and meanings, reinforcing this tradition of distinction between different areas of study. Each colour has a particular meaning and reflects the student's field of study. It's important to check the colour codes specific to your university to make sure you're wearing the right gown for the ceremony. Colours can also symbolise academic values or ideals, adding an extra dimension to the importance of the degree gown.
Fabrics
Most licence gowns are made from polyester, a durable and relatively affordable material. However, some universities or special occasions may require gowns made of wool or silk. The choice of fabric depends on personal preference and the requirements of the institution. Polyester is lightweight, easy to care for and wrinkle resistant, making it a practical choice for graduation ceremonies. Wool, on the other hand, offers a richer texture and a more elegant appearance, although it requires more careful maintenance. Silk is the most luxurious choice, offering unrivalled lustre and softness, but can be expensive and tricky to maintain. Choose a fabric that suits your budget and your preferences for comfort and appearance.
Cups
Licentiate gowns can vary in cut and style. Traditional gowns often have wide sleeves and a loose drape, symbolising the openness and accessibility of knowledge. These gowns offer a classic and majestic appearance, often associated with ancient academic traditions. Modern cuts, on the other hand, can be more fitted and structured for a more contemporary and elegant look. They are designed to fit the body better and offer greater freedom of movement. It's essential to choose a cut that reflects your personal style while respecting your university's academic traditions. Consider trying on several styles before making your final choice to ensure that you are comfortable and confident on the day.
A well-chosen graduation gown not only enhances your appearance at the graduation ceremony, it also celebrates your academic achievement with elegance and dignity.
Now that you have a well-chosen graduation gown perfectly suited to your needs, it's time to understand how to wear it correctly and respect the academic traditions that go with it. The way you wear your gown and associated accessories plays a key role in the appearance and solemnity of your graduation ceremony. Let's explore together the best practices for wearing your gown with elegance and dignity.
Buy or Hire your licence gown
Buy
Buying your own degree gown can be a very personal and meaningful choice. It allows you to keep a tangible souvenir of this major academic achievement. By owning your own gown, you have the freedom to choose exactly the style, colour and fabric that suits you best. What's more, it can be a wise investment if you plan to take part in other university ceremonies or lend it to a friend or family member.
- Benefits :
- A lasting memory Keep a toga as a reminder of your success. It's a physical reminder of your years of study and the effort you put into achieving your degree.
- Customisation Choose a licence gown that reflects your personal style, with options for embellishments or special personalisation.
- Future use The possibility of reusing it for other academic events or ceremonies. For example, if you are pursuing higher education or taking part in university events as an alumnus.
- Disadvantages :
- Cost Cost: Can be more expensive than renting. A purchased licence gown can represent a significant financial investment, especially if you opt for high-quality materials such as wool or silk.
- Interviews The need for proper care and storage to keep it in good condition. This may include the cost of dry cleaning and the need for adequate storage space to prevent creasing or damage.
Buying your own toga is an ideal option for those who want a lasting memento of their academic success and who appreciate the possibility of personalising and re-using their toga.
Rent
Renting a gown is often a more economical option, especially if you don't intend to wear it again. Rental services offer a variety of sizes and styles, making it easy to find a gown to suit your needs. What's more, it eliminates the hassle of maintenance and storage after the ceremony.
- Advantages :
- Cost Renting is often cheaper than buying. Renting allows you to spend less on a garment that you may only wear once.
- Practicality No need to worry about maintenance or storage. After the ceremony, simply return the licence gown to the rental service.
- Flexibility A wide choice of styles and sizes with no long-term commitment. You can easily try out several options to find the toga that suits you best without having to make a long-term financial commitment.
- Disadvantages :
- Limited personalisation Less choice in terms of style and colour. Rental gowns are often standardised and it can be difficult to find options that allow customisation.
- Variable quality The quality of the gowns may vary depending on the rental service. Some gowns may show signs of wear or not fit as well as a purchased gown.
- Availability Availability may be a problem, especially during periods of high demand. Book in advance to ensure you get the size and style you want.
Hiring a licence gown is a practical and cost-effective solution for those who don't need to keep the gown after the ceremony and prefer a hassle-free option.
Whether you decide to buy or rent, the important thing is to choose an option that allows you to fully experience this unique and memorable moment in your academic career. Think about your needs and your budget to make the best choice.
Once you have your licence gown ready, whether bought or hired, it's essential to know how to look after it after the ceremony. Proper care will ensure that this symbolic piece remains in pristine condition for years to come, or is ready to be returned without a hitch. Let's move on to some practical advice on the care and storage of your licence gown.
After the Ceremony
Maintenance
Once the graduation ceremony is over, it's important to take care of your gown so that it stays in perfect condition. If you have purchased your gown, it is advisable to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, dry cleaning is recommended to avoid damaging the gown's delicate fabric. Avoid machine washing or ironing at high temperatures, as this could alter its appearance and texture.
For polyester licence gowns, a gentle hand wash may sometimes be sufficient, but be sure to read the care labels to avoid any mistakes. Wool or silk gowns generally require more care, and are best cleaned by a professional.
Storage
To keep your licence gown in good condition, it is essential to store it correctly. Store it in a dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent the colours from fading. Use a protective cover to keep it clean and protect it from dust. Hang it on a sturdy hanger to prevent creasing and wrinkling.
If you don't intend to wear your gown again, consider storing it in a box with tissue paper to preserve its shape and quality. Make sure the box is well ventilated to avoid any moisture build-up.
Reuse
If you don't want to keep your gown, there are several creative ways to reuse it. You can give it to a graduating student who might need it for their own graduation ceremony. Many students appreciate receiving a gown as an heirloom, especially if it has sentimental value.
You can also transform your licence toga into a unique garment or accessory. For example, you could ask a tailor to turn it into a special dress or coat. For those who like souvenirs, consider framing part of the gown with your degree and other memorabilia from your university days, to create a keepsake frame that you can hang in your home.
Finally, for the more creative, using the toga as a decorative element, such as a cushion or blanket, can be a great way of preserving and showing off your success.
Conclusion
The undergraduate gown is an important symbol of your academic career. Its importance at the ceremony lies in its ability to symbolise achievement and mark this crucial milestone. Whether you choose to buy or rent, make sure you understand the traditions and etiquette involved so you can make the most of this unique moment. Congratulations on your academic success and good luck in all your future endeavours!
So, with these tips, you're now ready to honour and care for your degree toga in the proper manner. Whether you wear it proudly or keep it as a souvenir, these practices will ensure that this symbol of your academic success remains intact.
