Black Graduation Gown

Get prepared for one of the most important days of your life by purchasing your black graduation cap and gown. Don't forget to order your black graduation tassels to go with them.

History of the Black Graduation Gown

Surprisingly, the tradition of wearing black cap and gown outfits dates back to the Middle Ages in England. At Oxford University, the academic buildings were not heated, and students and teachers were forced to wear black caps and gowns to try to keep warm. The black graduation robes also played the role of distinguishing the students from the townspeople.

In the United States, the tradition of wearing a black graduation gown goes back to colonial times. Columbia University, which is one of the oldest universities in the country, was founded in 1754 as the King's College by King George II of England. Students at both Columbia and Princeton Universities were required to wear their black cap graduation outfits on a daily basis, a tradition that did not come to a close until after the Civil War.

Features of the Black Graduation Gown

In 1894, the American Intercollegiate Commission met at Columbia University to decide on one standard style and color of gown and hood or cap, and they decided on black. Each black graduation gown outfit has a hood with a border color that indicates the academic discipline for the earned degree.

High school graduates typically dress in a black and gold cap and gown for their graduation ceremony. Students who have earned their doctorate usually wear a black doctoral gown that has black velvet panels in the front and on the sleeves. They also wear mortarboard headpieces with black graduation tassels. It is advisable to wear a black dress with a black graduation gown. Black is seen as a sign of respect and solemnity and will show the gravity of the honor being bestowed.