The origin of the term “regalia” was in 1530, which symbolizes royal privilege and the power and authority of a king. It originated from the Latin word “regalia,” which simply means the royal things. Other than in the proto-indo- European root, the meaning of “reg” is to make a move in a straight line for leading the rule. Initially, it was used as a decorative piece, but with the evolution of fashion, it transformed into Doctoral regalia; earlier, it served more as an emblem to signify status, and later, it was also used for academic commencement ceremonies.
What is Doctoral Regalia?
In simple terms Doctoral regalia is a form of academic attire, which can be a tam, gown and hood, which is worn at doctoral hooding ceremonies. The design of the hood incorporates specific colors for each interior line, which signifies the institution from which the student has graduated. Doctoral regalia are a must in ceremonies that are conducted by universities at the very end of every semester, which denote the path of an individual from a student to a doctor. These regalia are not just for fashion; they represent your hard work and dedication, as they have earned them through significant effort. If needed you can also gift them with beautiful graduation honor cords.
Tips to Get the Best Doctoral Regalia
First of all, we would like to congratulate you on your impending graduation day for your hard work and achievements. That is why it is equally important to understand that you should get the best out of your doctoral regalia, as we have carefully curated the list for tips to help you get the best gown and doctoral regalia.
Here are few steps which you need follow:
Step1 : Early orders
The very first thing yet the very important tip is to order early, as sometimes it will take 6 to 8 weeks probably to produce and ship your custom-order gown and custom cap that are made to order.
Step2: Hand-pick your gown
Choosing the best gown will give you the much-needed boost for your ceremony; that is why you should handpick the gown yourself. The gown and cap are the official outfit for all the doctoral degree candidates; however, in some cases some universities also give you the leverage of wearing the conventional black regalia.
You can also go for rental traditional gowns and caps, as they are designed in such a manner that they can be worn by any graduates from any universities. You can also customize them with a velvet hood as per your degree color, as well as the satin lining of the hood. You can choose from multiple options that are available, such as a flat mortarboard and velvet tam other than that you can choose the velvet color and style of gold tam or tassel.
Step3: Take your measurement
One of the most important yet most underrated tips is to focus on the measurements so that you can nail the fit for your graduation outfit. The measurements are really important because a tailored gown and cap need specific measurements.
Head size measurement: The head size measurement is crucial, as it will decide the overall aesthetic of the outfits with a well-fitted tam or hat. It is one of the most difficult measurements to do; that is why it is essential to make it as accurate as possible. Even though the typical head measurement lies between 21 and 24 inches by ensuring the tape is parallel to the ground.
Chest size measurement:Now that you have your cap size, it’s time to find the best fit for your chest. It is very important, as it will decide the overall aesthetic of your doctoral regalia, as it should fit snugly just like a glove. It is important to understand that you should leave room for a hand or two for it.
Sleeve size measurement: Put the tape measure at the back of your neck and pull it down to your shoulder, then to your elbow, and finally to your wrist. The tape measure should stop close to the bone on your wrist, which is where you want the sleeve to fall. The usual size is between 29 and 35 inches. Height (Feet/Inches): This is how tall you are without shoes.When you measure, make sure the tape is parallel to the ground and not at an angle.The shortest length of shirt sleeves that is okay is 29 inches. This is the average length of a person who is 5’0″ to 5’3″.
Final Verdict
Your graduation is a reflection of your years of dedication and hard work, so your doctoral regalia should be a representation of this. That is why you should seek the best available option that honors and celebrates your scholarly journey. You can also look for custom doctoral regalia colors, which will contain all the necessary attention to detail, ensuring that every aspect of your graduation regalia symbolizes your dedication and hard work, including your gown and cap. Graduating as a doctor is a once-in-a-lifetime event and everything should be perfect on your graduation day so that you can make the whole experience memorable for you as well as for others. The more premium and classy your regalia is, the better you will look in your graduation photos, and you will also feel good, as you will be the perfect mix of aesthetics and intelligence.
FAQs
What are the parts of a doctoral regalia?
A doctoral regalia includes a gown with velvet panels and three sleeve bars, a hood that shows your university colors and your academic field, and a velvet tam or mortarboard. Each element highlights your degree and discipline.
What do the colors on the hood mean?
The lining of the hood represents your university’s official colors, while the velvet trim indicates your area of study—for example, blue for philosophy, green for medicine, and orange for engineering.
What is the difference between a master’s gown and a doctoral gown?
Doctoral gowns are more detailed and formal, featuring velvet panels and sleeve bars, unlike master’s gowns. The design and trims reflect the highest academic achievement.
Can I use diploma covers along with my doctoral regalia?
Yes! While doctoral regalia such as gowns, hoods, and tams are worn during the ceremony, diploma covers are used to protect and display your diploma after graduation.
When should I place my order for regalia?
It’s best to order 6 to 8 weeks before graduation. This allows time for custom measurements, delivery, and any special requests, ensuring your regalia is ready on time.
