Measuring The Right Graduate Cap And Gown

How to Get the Perfect Fit for Your Graduation Cap and Gown

Graduation day is a long and important ceremony, and with so many people in attendance, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. Wearing academic regalia on top of your regular clothes can add extra body heat, making it uncomfortable, especially in a crowded space. That’s why getting the right fit for your cap and gown is crucial. So, how do you ensure that your academic dress fits properly?

1. Get Help with the Measurements

Measuring for your graduation cap and gown can be tricky, so it’s a good idea to ask a friend to help. You’ll want to wear the shoes and suit you plan to wear on graduation day, as this will give you the most accurate measurement. If you only measure while wearing casual clothes, your regalia might not fit right. For example, a thick suit can add bulk, while a body-fitting shirt will affect the measurements differently. Your gown should fall properly—nothing too short or tight—just like you wouldn’t want a prom dress that’s too small!

2. Take Accurate Measurements

To get started, measure your height from the top of your shoes to the top of your head. Have your assistant write down the measurement in feet and inches. Next, measure the width of your shoulders by placing the measuring tape across your back, from the tip of your left shoulder to the tip of your right shoulder.

3. Check Your Weight

Next, weigh yourself on a bathroom scale. This will help you determine the correct general sizing (small, medium, large, etc.) for your regalia. It’s a quick but important step.

4. Measure Your Chest

To get the correct chest measurement, stand up straight with your arms at your sides. Have someone measure from under your arms, across your back, and over your shoulder blades. Then, measure around the fullest part of your chest. Make sure the tape is snug but not tight; it should fit comfortably without pulling.

5. Measure the Collar and Sleeve Length

Now, measure the size of your collar. Use the tape measure to go around your neck about one inch above your collarbone. After that, measure your sleeve length, starting at the middle of your collarbone, around your elbow, and down to your wrist, where the sleeve should fall.

6. Measure Your Head for the Cap

For the cap or tam, measure the circumference of your head. Use the tape to measure around the widest part of your head, making sure it’s about one inch above your ears—this is where the cap will sit. Write down the measurement in inches.

7. Check the Size Chart

Once you have all your measurements, compare them to the size chart for caps and gowns. If you’re between sizes, go with the next larger size to ensure a comfortable fit.

8. Don’t Overlook the Fit for PhD Regalia

If you’re ordering a cap and gown for a PhD ceremony, be extra careful with the measurements. A bad fit could leave you feeling uncomfortable during the ceremony, which is the last thing you want on such a special day. After all, graduation may only happen once in your lifetime, so make sure you make the most of it! A well-fitted gown will help boost your confidence, and you won’t have to worry about adjusting your clothes while walking across the stage to receive your diploma.