ACADEMIC APPAREL GUIDE
Doctoral Regalia Guide
Understand doctoral gowns, velvet details, academic hoods and cap options before selecting regalia for commencement.
What distinguishes doctoral regalia?
Doctoral regalia is often more detailed than bachelor or master dress. Depending on the tradition, a gown may feature velvet facings, sleeve bars, piping or a fuller silhouette.
Confirm the gown color, velvet color, piping, hood lining, degree color and approved cap with the institution before ordering or requesting customization.
Details to compare
| Area | What to review | Best reference |
|---|---|---|
| Doctoral gown | Velvet facings, sleeve bars, piping and closure | Institutional design requirements |
| Doctoral hood | Shape, shell, lining and trim | University and degree specification |
| Cap | Tam or mortarboard with the appropriate tassel | Ceremony rules |
Before you order
- Confirm the institution, degree and dress rules.
- Measure carefully using the selected product’s size chart.
- Check included pieces and selected options.
- Allow time for delivery and customization.
- For groups, prepare one consolidated size list.
HELPFUL ANSWERS
Frequently asked questions
What do the velvet bars mean?
They are a characteristic doctoral design element in many systems; color and arrangement may follow institutional conventions.
Do all doctoral graduates wear a tam?
No. Some institutions use a tam while others specify a mortarboard.
Can regalia match university colors?
Eligible styles can be reviewed for coordinated velvet, piping, embroidery and other institutional details.
Need help matching requirements?
Send the institution, degree, quantity and ceremony date for guidance.