Donning the iconic graduation cap marks a momentous milestone, symbolizing the culmination of years of academic endeavors. As you embark on this celebratory occasion, it is essential to wear your cap with pride and grace. The proper placement and alignment of the cap enhance your overall appearance and convey a sense of formality befitting the occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned graduate or attending your first commencement ceremony, understanding the intricacies of wearing a graduation cap empowers you to project confidence and make a lasting impression.
Firstly, ensure that your cap is placed squarely on top of your head. The mortarboard, or flat top, should rest parallel to the ground. Avoid tilting or angling the cap, as this detracts from its intended shape and form. The tassel, often the focal point of the cap, should hang down the center of your forehead, framing your face. Adjust the tassel so that it rests just above your eyebrows, accentuating your features and symbolizing your academic achievement.
Next, pay attention to the placement of the cap’s brim. The front brim should extend slightly beyond your forehead, creating a flattering shadow that draws attention to your eyes. The back brim, on the other hand, should align with the nape of your neck, providing a clean and polished look. Avoid wearing the cap too far back or forward, as this can disrupt the intended visual balance. Additionally, ensure that the cap fits snugly but comfortably. It should remain securely in place throughout the ceremony without causing any discomfort or distraction.
Position the Cap Correctly
1. Determine the Right Seat
Your graduation cap should be worn on the center of your head, directly above your forehead. To find the correct spot, place the cap on your head and adjust it until the front edge of the mortarboard (the square top of the cap) is parallel to your eyebrows. The tassel should hang down in the center of your back.
2. Adjust the Fit
The cap should fit snugly on your head, but not so tightly that it’s uncomfortable. If the cap is too loose, it may fall off during the ceremony. If it’s too tight, you may get a headache. Use the adjustable strap or elastic band to tighten or loosen the cap as needed.
3. Position the Tassel
The tassel should hang down in the center of your back. If the tassel is too long, you can shorten it by tying a knot in the cord. If the tassel is too short, you can extend it by attaching a piece of ribbon or cord.
4. Special Considerations
- If you have long hair, you may want to put it in a ponytail or bun to keep it out of the way of the cap.
- If you are wearing a veil, you will need to position the cap on top of the veil.
- If you are wearing glasses, you may need to adjust the cap so that it does not interfere with your vision.
| Graduation Cap Etiquette |
|---|
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Do not wear the cap backwards or sideways. |
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Do not decorate the cap with anything that could be considered offensive or disrespectful. |
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Do not remove the cap during the ceremony, except when directed to do so. |
Secure the Tassel
The tassel on your graduation cap is a significant part of the ceremony. It symbolizes your achievement and is often moved from one side of the cap to the other to signify your transition from student to graduate. To ensure your tassel stays in place throughout the ceremony, follow these steps:
- Use a bobby pin: This is the most common and secure method. Simply insert a bobby pin through the loop on the top of the tassel and into the cap. Make sure the pin is pushed in far enough to hold the tassel firmly.
- Use a safety pin: If you don’t have a bobby pin, a safety pin can be used as an alternative. Insert the safety pin through the loop on the top of the tassel and secure it to the inside of the cap.
- Use a tassel holder: This is a specialized device designed to hold graduation tassels in place. It usually consists of a clip that attaches to the tassel and a hook that attaches to the cap.
- Use hairspray or gel: In a pinch, you can use hairspray or gel to help keep the tassel in place. Simply spray or apply a small amount to the loop on the top of the tassel.
| Method | Security | Ease of Use |
|---|---|---|
| Bobby Pin | Excellent | Easy |
| Safety Pin | Good | Moderate |
| Tassel Holder | Excellent | Moderate |
| Hairspray/Gel | Fair | Easy |
Adjust the Fit
Ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for your graduation cap is crucial. Here’s a detailed guide on how to adjust the fit properly:
1. Measure Your Head
Begin by measuring the circumference of your head. Use a flexible tape measure and wrap it around the widest part of your head, just above your eyebrows. Note down the measurement in inches or centimeters.
2. Choose the Appropriate Cap Size
Most graduation caps come in a range of sizes. Refer to the manufacturer’s size chart to determine the appropriate size based on your head circumference measurement. If you fall between two sizes, it’s generally recommended to choose the larger size for a more comfortable fit.
3. Adjust the Inner Band
Many graduation caps feature an inner band that can be adjusted to secure the cap on your head. Follow these steps to adjust the band:
| Step 1: | Locate the inner band inside the cap. |
|---|---|
| Step 2: | Gently pull the Velcro or elastic closure to loosen the band. |
| Step 3: | Place the cap on your head and adjust the band until it fits snugly but not too tightly. |
| Step 4: | Check for comfort and secure the closure once you find the desired fit. |
Once the inner band is properly adjusted, your graduation cap should fit comfortably and remain securely on your head throughout the ceremony.
Customize Your Cap
Make your graduation cap unique and memorable by customizing it to reflect your personality and interests. Here are some ideas:
Embellishments
Add personal touches to your cap with stickers, glitter, ribbon, or other embellishments. Create a collage of meaningful images, quotes, or symbols that represent your journey and accomplishments.
Paint or Fabric
Paint or dye your cap a different color or pattern to stand out from the crowd. Use fabric markers or spray paint to create designs, lettering, or images that express your creativity and personality.
Tassel Modifications
The tassel is a significant part of the graduation cap. Customize it by wrapping it with ribbon, adding tassels, or changing its color. By decorating the tassel, you create a unique and personal touch to a traditional symbol.
| Tassel Modification Ideas |
|---|
| Wrap the tassel with colorful ribbon |
| Add smaller tassels of varying colors |
| Dip the tassel in a dye to change its color |
| Embroider designs or initials onto the tassel |
| Attach beads or charms to the end of the tassel |
Decorate with Honors Cords
Honors cords are a way to recognize academic achievement and are typically worn around the neck. They are often made of silk or rayon and come in a variety of colors, each representing a different level of honor. To wear honors cords, simply drape them around your neck so that they hang evenly on both sides. The tassels should be placed over the shoulders.
5. Drape the Cords
With the cords in place, you can now drape them over your gown. Start by taking the left cord and placing it over your left shoulder. Then, take the right cord and place it over your right shoulder. The cords should now be hanging down your back, with the tassels on the outside.
| Color | Level of Honor |
|---|---|
| Gold | Summa Cum Laude |
| Silver | Magna Cum Laude |
| Bronze | Cum Laude |
| Green | Honors |
Handle Caps Respect
The graduation cap is a symbol of your hard work and dedication, so it’s important to treat it with respect. Here are a few tips:
1. Hold it by the tassel.
2. Keep it clean.
3. Don’t write on it.
4. Don’t throw it.
5. Put it away safely after graduation.
6. Be aware of your surroundings when wearing your cap.
Here are some specific things to avoid when wearing your graduation cap:
| Don’t Do This | Do This Instead |
|---|---|
| Wear your cap backwards. | Wear your cap straight or slightly tilted to the side. |
| Decorate your cap with inappropriate or offensive symbols or words. | Decorate your cap with tasteful and respectful symbols or words. |
| Throw your cap in the air at graduation. | Remove your cap respectfully and hold it in your hand. |
By following these tips, you can show your respect for your graduation cap and for the accomplishment it represents.
Wear Your Mortarboard with Pride
The graduation cap, also known as the mortarboard, is a symbol of academic achievement. Worn by graduates at commencement ceremonies, it signifies the completion of a rigorous course of study and the beginning of a new chapter in life.
Angled With Dignity
Position the mortarboard on your head so that the front edge rests slightly above your eyebrows and the back edge is approximately one inch above your occipital bone. Ensure that the tassel falls gracefully over the left side of your head, hanging just below your ear.
Tassel Tales
The tassel attached to the mortarboard has a specific meaning. Before the ceremony, it is worn on the right side. After the degree has been conferred, it is moved to the left side to signify the transition from student to graduate.
Name Placement
If desired, you can add your name or a personalized message to the top of the mortarboard. Use a permanent marker or paint to create a unique and meaningful keepsake.
Creative Adornment
While tradition dictates a plain black mortarboard, many graduates choose to embellish theirs with decorations that reflect their personality or interests. Consider adding ribbons, beads, or even small figurines to make your cap stand out.
Fit Matters
Ensure the mortarboard fits snugly but comfortably on your head. If it is too loose, it may fall off during the ceremony. If it is too tight, it may cause discomfort.
Honor the Tradition
Wear your mortarboard with pride and respect. It is a symbol of your hard work and dedication, and it should be treated with the utmost care.
Protect Your Cap
A graduation cap is an important symbol of your hard work and dedication. It is also a delicate item that can be easily damaged. Here are some tips on how to protect your cap:
1. Store it properly. When you are not wearing your cap, store it in a safe place where it will not be crushed or damaged. A hat box or a sturdy cardboard box is a good option.
2. Handle it with care. When you are handling your cap, be careful not to drop it or bump it against anything hard. Hold it by the top or the sides, and avoid touching the tassel.
3. Keep it clean. If your cap gets dirty, clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap. Do not put it in the washing machine or dryer.
4. Repair it if necessary. If your cap is damaged, you can repair it using a needle and thread. If the damage is more severe, you may need to take it to a tailor.
5. Personalize it. Once you have your cap, you can personalize it to make it unique. You can add stickers, pins, or other decorations.
6. Wear it proudly. Your graduation cap is a symbol of your accomplishment. Wear it with pride on graduation day and beyond.
7. Take pictures. Graduation is a special day. Take pictures of yourself wearing your cap so that you can remember this milestone for years to come.
8. **Additional tips for protecting your graduation cap**
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Use a hat box or a sturdy cardboard box | To store your cap when you are not wearing it |
| Handle it with care | Be careful not to drop it or bump it against anything hard |
| Keep it clean | Clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap |
| Repair it if necessary | Use a needle and thread to repair small damages |
| Personalize it | Add stickers, pins, or other decorations |
| Wear it proudly | On graduation day and beyond |
| Take pictures | So that you can remember this milestone for years to come |
Store Your Cap Properly
To ensure your graduation cap remains in pristine condition for years to come, it’s crucial to store it properly. Follow these steps to protect your cap from damage:
1. Remove Decoration and Tassel
Carefully remove any decorations or tassels you’ve attached to the cap.
2. Clean the Cap
Use a soft, damp cloth to gently wipe down the surface of the cap, removing any dirt or residue.
3. Air Dry
Place the cap in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely.
4. Shape the Cap
While the cap is still slightly damp, carefully shape it to its original form using your hands.
5. Use Acid-Free Paper
Wrap the cap in acid-free paper, such as tissue paper or newspaper, to protect it from moisture and fading.
6. Store in a Box
Place the wrapped cap in a sturdy box with sufficient space to prevent bending or crushing.
7. Protect from Light
Store the box in a dark, cool location away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.
8. Avoid Heat and Cold
Extreme temperatures can damage the cap’s material. Keep it away from heaters, fireplaces, and freezing temperatures.
9. Storage Table for Graduation Cap
| Item | Storage Method |
|---|---|
| Cap | Wrapped in acid-free paper, stored in a sturdy box |
| Tassel | Stored in a separate container or plastic bag |
| Decorations | Removed and stored in a separate container or box |
Graduation Cap Etiquette
Traditionally, the mortarboard is worn with the tassel on the left side. However, there are some variations depending on the school or university.
Here are some general guidelines for wearing a graduation cap:
- The cap should be worn level on the head, with the peak in the center of the forehead.
- The tassel should hang over the left shoulder.
- If the cap has a visor, it should be facing forward.
- The cap should be worn with the brim parallel to the ground.
- The cap should not be worn backwards.
- The cap should not be worn tilted to one side.
- The cap should not be worn with any decorations or accessories.
Interpretation of Tassel Placement
The placement of the tassel on the cap has different meanings depending on the academic degree being conferred. Here is a table summarizing the tassel placement for common academic degrees:
| Degree | Tassel Placement |
|---|---|
| Associate’s Degree | Right side |
| Bachelor’s Degree | Left side |
| Master’s Degree | Right side |
| Doctoral Degree | Center |
Note that some universities may have different rules regarding tassel placement, so it is always best to check with the school’s official guidelines.
How To Wear Graduation Cap
Congratulations on your graduation! Now that you’ve all worked so hard, you deserve to celebrate your achievements and look your best while doing it. One of the most important parts of any graduation outfit is the cap. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to wear it properly.
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Place the cap on your head so that the front edge is about an inch above your eyebrows. The tassel should be hanging down the center of your back.
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Adjust the cap so that it is comfortable and secure. You should be able to move your head around without the cap falling off.
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If your cap has a strap, fasten it under your chin. This will help to keep the cap in place, especially if it is windy.
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Once the cap is in place, you are ready to walk across the stage and receive your diploma.
People Also Ask
Why do graduation caps have a tassel?
The tassel on a graduation cap represents the completion of a degree. It is traditionally black for a bachelor’s degree, gold for a master’s degree, and silver for a doctoral degree.
Which side should the graduation cap tassel be on?
The tassel should be on the left side of the cap when you are facing forward.
What does it mean when the graduation cap is flipped?
Flipping the graduation cap is a way to celebrate and show that you have completed your degree. It is also a way to show your school spirit or to support a cause.
