When you picture a college graduate walking into commencement, you probably imagine a flowing gown, square graduation cap and tassel. Look more closely, however, and you may also see colorful stoles, braided cords and other academic accessories.
Which of these items does a bachelor’s graduate actually need?
The answer depends on the college or university. The graduation bachelors gowns and mortarboard may form the basic academic outfit at many institutions, while tassel colors, stoles, cords and other accessories can depend on school traditions, academic programs and individual eligibility.
This guide builds the bachelor’s graduation outfit piece by piece so students can understand what each item is, how it is worn and what to verify before purchasing graduation regalia.
Start With the Required Academic Outfit
Before shopping for graduation accessories, separate the academic apparel required for commencement from optional or recognition-based items.
A bachelor’s graduation outfit may include:
- Bachelor’s graduation gown
- Mortarboard graduation cap
- Graduation tassel
- Graduation stole when approved or applicable
- Honor or recognition cords when earned or authorized
- Other institution-specific academic dress
Not every graduate will wear every item on this list.
Check Your College’s Commencement Rules First
Your degree-granting institution determines what is appropriate for its commencement ceremony.
Before purchasing graduation regalia, confirm:
- Required gown style
- Required gown color
- Required fabric finish if specified
- Required cap or headwear
- Tassel requirements
- Rules for stoles
- Rules for honor cords
- Whether independently purchased regalia is permitted
- Whether any school-specific academic dress is required
Part 1: The Bachelor’s Graduation Gown
The gown is the largest and most visually prominent part of the graduation outfit.
Students earning bachelor’s degrees should look for a gown appropriate to their academic level and institution rather than assuming all graduation gowns are the same.
What Should a Bachelor’s Gown Look Like?
Bachelor’s gowns generally have a traditional academic shape with sleeves designed for the bachelor’s level.
Exact details can differ among manufacturers and institutions.
When comparing gowns, pay attention to:
- Sleeve construction
- Overall gown design
- Fabric
- Finish
- Color
- Front closure
- Available sizes
Why Degree Level Matters
Academic gowns can differ according to degree level.
A bachelor’s graduate should not purchase a master’s or doctoral gown simply because it appears similar in an online photograph.
Verify the product’s academic level before ordering.
What Color Gown Do Bachelor’s Graduates Wear?
Black is frequently associated with college graduation, but there is no rule requiring every bachelor’s graduate everywhere to wear a black gown.
Institutions may use:
- Traditional black
- School colors
- Different colors for particular academic units
- Custom or institution-specific regalia
Your school’s current instructions should determine the appropriate color.
Matte or Shiny: Does the Finish Matter?
It can.
A matte gown has a softer, less reflective appearance, while a shiny gown reflects more light.
If your institution specifies one finish, follow that requirement. If it does not, make sure any independently purchased gown is otherwise acceptable under the school’s commencement policy.
How Long Should a Bachelor’s Graduation Gown Be?
The intended gown length depends on the design and sizing system of the product.
Rather than selecting a gown based on a preferred hem length, use the manufacturer’s size chart and follow its sizing instructions.
How to Choose Your Graduation Gown Size
Graduation gowns often use a sizing system based primarily on height, with some products requesting additional information.
Do not assume that your regular clothing size translates directly to a graduation gown.
For the best starting point:
- Measure your height accurately
- Review the exact product size chart
- Provide additional measurements when requested
- Review extended-size options when needed
Should You Order a Bigger Gown to Wear Over Clothes?
Not automatically.
Graduation gowns are generally designed with a loose silhouette. Follow the sizing instructions for the actual gown rather than ordering a larger size simply to create additional room.
Part 2: The Mortarboard Graduation Cap
The flat square cap associated with graduation is commonly called a mortarboard.
It is one of the most recognizable elements of bachelor’s commencement attire.
Does the Mortarboard Need to Match the Gown?
At many ceremonies, the cap coordinates with the gown.
If your cap and gown are purchased separately, verify that the colors and styles satisfy your institution’s requirements.
Even products described with the same color name can have visible shade differences.
How Do You Wear a Graduation Cap?
The mortarboard should generally sit securely and level enough to remain in position during the ceremony.
Follow any instructions provided by your school, particularly if the institution has specific expectations for academic dress.
Can You Decorate the Top of Your Graduation Cap?
Maybe.
Graduation-cap decoration rules vary among institutions. Some permit creative designs, while others limit decorations or require caps to remain unchanged.
Check before using glue, paint, adhesive lettering or permanent decorations.
Part 3: The Graduation Tassel
The tassel attaches to the mortarboard and often includes a decorative metal charm displaying the graduation year.
Although it may seem like a small accessory, the tassel can be part of an institution’s academic dress requirements.
Does the Tassel Come With the Cap?
It depends on the product.
A complete cap-and-gown package may include a tassel, while a cap purchased individually may or may not include one.
Check the package contents before purchasing an additional tassel.
What Tassel Color Should You Wear?
Use the color specified or approved by your institution.
Some universities may use different tassel colors for particular academic units or programs, while others may use a common color.
Do not assume a generic online tassel chart applies to your college.
What Is a Graduation Year Charm?
A year charm is a small decorative piece attached to some graduation tassels.
A student graduating in 2027, for example, may have a tassel featuring a 2027 charm.
Check whether your tassel already includes the correct charm before ordering another one.
When Do You Move the Graduation Tassel?
Tassel traditions can differ by institution and ceremony.
If your commencement includes a tassel movement, ceremony officials typically provide instructions.
Follow those directions rather than relying on a universal left-versus-right rule.
Part 4: The Graduation Stole
A graduation stole is a wider piece of fabric worn around the neck with both ends hanging vertically down the front of the gown.
Unlike the basic gown and cap, a stole may represent a particular form of recognition, membership or affiliation.
Why Do Graduates Wear Stoles?
Depending on institutional policy, stoles may be associated with:
- Academic programs
- Student organizations
- Honor organizations
- Fraternities and sororities
- Cultural or affinity organizations
- Leadership or service recognition
- Other approved affiliations or achievements
The meaning of a stole depends on the organization or institution associated with it.
Does Every Bachelor’s Graduate Need a Stole?
No.
A stole is not a universal requirement for receiving a bachelor’s degree.
Some graduates wear one or more approved stoles, while others wear no stole at all.
How Is a Graduation Stole Worn?
A stole is generally placed around the back of the neck with the two ends hanging down the front of the graduation gown.
Students wearing multiple pieces of recognition apparel should follow any placement guidance provided by their institution.
Can You Order a Personalized Graduation Stole?
Customized stoles may be available with names, class years, text, colors or approved artwork.
Before ordering a personalized stole, check:
- Your institution’s accessory policy
- Permitted colors
- Permitted text
- Artwork requirements
- Production time
- Proofing requirements
Be Careful With School Logos and Trademarks
A school name, logo, seal or other protected mark should be reproduced only with appropriate authorization.
Buying a custom graduation product from an independent retailer does not automatically provide permission to reproduce protected institutional branding.
Part 5: Graduation Honor Cords
Graduation cords are narrower than stoles and are typically worn around the neck so that the ends hang down the front of the gown.
They can be used to recognize accomplishments, membership or participation when authorized by the applicable institution or organization.
Why Do Some Graduates Wear Cords?
Depending on the school or organization, cords may recognize:
- Academic honors
- Honor society membership
- Leadership
- Community service
- Student organizations
- Academic programs
- Other approved achievements
What Do Different Graduation Cord Colors Mean?
There is no universal color chart that applies to every college.
A gold cord at one institution may not represent exactly the same recognition as a gold cord at another institution.
Eligibility and meaning should come from the organization or school awarding the cord.
Can You Buy Your Own Honor Cord?
Honor cords are widely available for purchase, but being able to buy a cord does not establish that a student is eligible or authorized to wear it at commencement.
Confirm your eligibility before purchasing recognition apparel for ceremonial use.
Can Bachelor’s Graduates Wear More Than One Cord?
Some students may qualify for several approved cords.
Whether multiple cords are permitted and how they should be arranged depends on the institution’s ceremony policy.
Graduation Stoles and Cords Are Not the Same Thing
Both accessories are worn over a gown, but they have distinctly different forms.
A graduation stole is a broad fabric accessory with two panels extending down the front.
A graduation cord consists of narrower strands, often twisted or braided.
A graduate may potentially wear either, both or neither depending on institutional requirements and eligibility.
Where Does an Academic Hood Fit Into Bachelor’s Regalia?
Students sometimes assume that every degree requires an academic hood. That is not the case.
Many colleges do not require hoods for bachelor’s graduates. Other institutions may follow different academic dress practices.
Do not purchase a hood unless your institution’s requirements indicate that one is appropriate.
What Should You Wear Under a Bachelor’s Graduation Gown?
Your school may provide dress recommendations or requirements for commencement.
When choosing clothing, consider:
- Ceremony formality
- Indoor or outdoor venue
- Weather
- Walking distance
- Stairs
- Comfort
- Footwear
Remember that part of your clothing and shoes may remain visible below the gown.
How to Build Your Complete Bachelor’s Graduation Outfit
A practical way to prepare is to build the outfit in layers.
Layer 1: Clothing and Footwear
Select appropriate clothing and comfortable footwear based on the ceremony requirements and venue.
Layer 2: Bachelor’s Gown
Put on the correct academic-level gown in the required color and size.
Layer 3: Recognition Accessories
Add any stoles or cords you are eligible and permitted to wear.
Layer 4: Mortarboard and Tassel
Complete the academic outfit with the required cap and tassel.
What Comes in a Bachelor’s Cap and Gown Set?
Package contents vary, but a common bachelor’s set may include:
- Bachelor’s gown
- Mortarboard
- Tassel
Stoles, cords, diploma covers and other accessories are often separate unless the listing specifically says they are included.
What to Check Before Buying a Bachelor’s Regalia Package
Review the product listing for:
- Academic level
- Gown color
- Fabric finish
- Available sizes
- Mortarboard
- Tassel
- Year charm
- Exact package contents
- Current availability
- Processing time
- Shipping information
- Return and exchange terms
Can You Purchase Graduation Pieces Separately?
Often, yes.
Buying individual pieces can be useful if:
- You already have an approved gown
- You need a replacement mortarboard
- You need a different tassel
- You qualify for a particular cord
- You need an approved stole
- You are replacing a missing accessory
Can You Reuse Bachelor’s Graduation Regalia?
Potentially, if your institution permits it and the regalia meets its current specifications.
Before reusing or borrowing a gown, compare:
- Academic level
- Gown style
- Color
- Finish
- Size
- Condition
- Cap requirements
- Tassel requirements
How Early Should You Get Your Graduation Regalia?
The appropriate ordering timeline depends on the ceremony date, current inventory, shipping destination and whether any customized products are required.
Try to have the complete outfit early enough to:
- Inspect the merchandise
- Try on the gown
- Check the cap
- Verify the tassel
- Confirm accessories
- Address an eligible exchange
- Remove packaging wrinkles safely
Try Everything On Together
Before commencement, put on your complete approved graduation outfit.
Check that:
- The gown is the expected size
- The cap stays securely in place
- The tassel is attached properly
- The stole hangs appropriately
- Cords sit comfortably
- Footwear works with the gown and venue
Common Bachelor’s Regalia Mistakes
Buying Before Checking School Requirements
A product can be perfectly good graduation regalia but still be inappropriate for a particular institution’s ceremony.
Ordering the Wrong Academic-Level Gown
Confirm that you are purchasing a bachelor’s gown rather than a master’s or doctoral style.
Using Everyday Clothing Size
Use the product-specific graduation gown size chart.
Assuming Every Accessory Is Required
Stoles, cords and hoods are not automatically required for every bachelor’s graduate.
Buying Recognition Cords Without Checking Eligibility
Availability for purchase does not establish authorization to wear an honor cord.
Assuming Cord Colors Have Universal Meanings
Meanings can differ among schools and organizations.
Ordering Too Close to Commencement
Leave enough time for processing, shipping, inspection and any eligible exchange.
Bachelor’s Graduation Outfit Checklist
- Confirm current university commencement rules
- Verify the bachelor’s gown design
- Verify the required gown color
- Verify matte or shiny finish if specified
- Use the exact product sizing instructions
- Review extended sizes if needed
- Confirm mortarboard requirements
- Confirm tassel color
- Check whether a year charm is needed
- Determine whether a graduation stole is permitted
- Confirm stole eligibility where applicable
- Confirm honor-cord eligibility
- Check whether multiple cords are permitted
- Verify whether an academic hood is required
- Check the exact contents of any regalia package
- Review availability
- Review processing and shipping time
- Review exchange and return terms
- Inspect the order after delivery
- Try on the complete outfit before graduation
Bachelor’s Graduation Regalia for Students and Groups
Cap and Gown Outlet is an independent academic regalia retailer offering graduation products for individual students and qualifying group and institutional orders.
Depending on current availability, bachelor’s graduation products may include:
- Bachelor’s graduation gowns
- Mortarboard caps
- Graduation tassels
- Cap, gown and tassel sets
- Extended-size gowns where available
- Graduation stoles
- Honor and recognition cords
- Diploma covers
- Other graduation accessories
Sizes, colors, package contents and inventory vary by product. Students should compare product specifications with their institution’s current requirements before ordering.
Independent Retailer Disclosure
Cap and Gown Outlet is an independent academic regalia retailer. It is not affiliated with, sponsored by, endorsed by or officially authorized by any college or university unless an actual relationship has been established.
References to academic dress and commencement apparel are informational. Students are responsible for confirming that independently purchased products meet their institution’s requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does a bachelor’s graduate normally wear?
A bachelor’s graduate commonly wears a bachelor’s gown, mortarboard and tassel. Approved stoles, cords or other academic accessories may also be worn depending on the institution and the graduate’s eligibility.
Is the cap called a mortarboard?
Yes. The traditional flat, square graduation cap is commonly called a mortarboard.
Is a stole part of every bachelor’s graduation outfit?
No. Stoles may represent particular organizations, achievements or affiliations and are subject to institutional rules.
Are graduation cords and stoles the same?
No. A stole is a wider fabric accessory, while a graduation cord consists of narrower strands worn around the neck.
What do different honor cord colors mean?
The meaning depends on the institution or organization. There is no universal cord-color system that applies to every college.
Can I wear multiple honor cords?
Potentially, if you qualify for them and your institution permits multiple cords.
Do I need a hood with a bachelor’s gown?
Not necessarily. Many institutions do not require academic hoods for bachelor’s graduates. Check your school’s requirements.
Can I decorate my mortarboard?
Only if your institution permits graduation-cap decoration. Check its commencement rules before permanently altering the cap.
Can I purchase my cap, gown and tassel separately?
Individual components may be available separately. Make sure each item matches your institution’s requirements and is compatible with the rest of your regalia.
Can I buy graduation regalia from an independent online retailer?
Potentially, if your institution permits independently purchased regalia and the products meet its current specifications.
How should I choose my bachelor’s gown size?
Use the current sizing instructions for the exact gown you intend to purchase rather than relying on your ordinary clothing size.
When should I order graduation regalia?
Order early enough to account for processing, shipping, trying on the gown and addressing any eligible exchange before commencement.
Build a Graduation Outfit That Meets Your Ceremony Requirements
Understanding what bachelor’s graduates wear makes preparing for commencement much easier. Start with the required bachelor’s gown, mortarboard and tassel, then determine whether you are eligible and permitted to add stoles, honor cords or other recognition accessories.
Most importantly, use your college or university’s current commencement instructions as the final authority. Once you know the required style, color and accessories, you can shop for bachelor’s graduation regalia with a much clearer understanding of exactly what you need for graduation day.
