{"id":3211,"date":"2026-10-05T16:04:09","date_gmt":"2026-10-05T16:04:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/?p=3211"},"modified":"2026-10-05T16:10:26","modified_gmt":"2026-10-05T16:10:26","slug":"high-school-graduation-regalia-guide","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/high-school-graduation-regalia-guide\/","title":{"rendered":"High School Graduation Regalia Buying Guide: Cap, Gown, Tassel, Sizing &amp; Ceremony Prep"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-post\" data-elementor-id=\"3211\" class=\"elementor elementor-3211\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-7013fdf e-flex e-con-boxed e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"7013fdf\" data-element_type=\"container\" data-e-type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"e-con-inner\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-cb29246 elementor-widget elementor-widget-text-editor\" data-id=\"cb29246\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-e-type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"text-editor.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<div class=\"main-blog\"><p>Senior year contains plenty of important dates, but few are anticipated as much as high school graduation.<\/p><p>For students, commencement is the moment when years of schoolwork finally lead to walking across the stage. For parents and families, it is also a milestone filled with photographs, celebrations and memories.<\/p><p>Before that day arrives, however, someone has to make sure the graduation cap, <a href=\"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/university-college\/bachelors-cap-and-gown\/gown-only.html\"><strong>Bachelors gown<\/strong><\/a>, tassel and other approved accessories are actually ready.<\/p><p>Buying <strong>high school graduation regalia<\/strong> does not have to be complicated. The key is completing the decisions in the right order.<\/p><p>This guide uses a simple five-check system:<\/p><ol><li><strong>School Check:<\/strong> Find out what the school requires.<\/li><li><strong>Size Check:<\/strong> Measure the student and choose the correct gown.<\/li><li><strong>Package Check:<\/strong> Know exactly what is included.<\/li><li><strong>Delivery Check:<\/strong> Order early and inspect everything.<\/li><li><strong>Ceremony Check:<\/strong> Prepare the complete graduation outfit.<\/li><\/ol><p>Following these five checks can help students and families avoid many of the most common cap-and-gown problems.<\/p><h2>CHECK 1: SCHOOL \u2014 Start With the Graduation Rules<\/h2><p>Do not begin by choosing a gown online.<\/p><p>Begin with the school.<\/p><p>High schools can establish specific requirements for commencement attire. A gown that appears perfectly suitable may still be inappropriate if it does not match the school&#8217;s required style, color or finish.<\/p><h2>Create a School Regalia Specification<\/h2><p>Before shopping, find answers to the following questions:<\/p><ul><li>What color gown is required?<\/li><li>Is a specific gown style required?<\/li><li>Does the school specify matte or shiny fabric?<\/li><li>What color cap is required?<\/li><li>What tassel should students wear?<\/li><li>Does the school provide the tassel?<\/li><li>Are honor cords permitted?<\/li><li>Are graduation stoles permitted?<\/li><li>Are medallions or other recognition items permitted?<\/li><li>Can students decorate their mortarboards?<\/li><li>Can students purchase compatible regalia independently?<\/li><\/ul><p>Write down the answers before comparing products.<\/p><h2>Where Can Students Find Graduation Dress Requirements?<\/h2><p>Depending on the high school, commencement information may be distributed through:<\/p><ul><li>Senior information packets<\/li><li>School emails<\/li><li>Graduation meetings<\/li><li>Senior class announcements<\/li><li>School websites<\/li><li>Commencement rehearsals<\/li><li>School administration<\/li><li>Senior advisors<\/li><\/ul><p>If the information is unclear, ask the school before purchasing.<\/p><h2>Can Students Purchase Their Own High School Graduation Gown?<\/h2><p>Possibly.<\/p><p>Some schools permit students to obtain compatible graduation apparel independently, while others use a specific gown or ordering arrangement.<\/p><p>Before buying from an independent retailer, determine whether independently purchased regalia is permitted and what specifications must be matched.<\/p><h2>Matching the School Is More Than Matching the Color Name<\/h2><p>Suppose the school requires royal blue.<\/p><p>That does not necessarily mean every gown sold as &#8220;royal blue&#8221; will look identical.<\/p><p>Differences can result from:<\/p><ul><li>Manufacturer<\/li><li>Fabric<\/li><li>Dye lot<\/li><li>Matte or shiny finish<\/li><li>Lighting<\/li><li>Photography<\/li><\/ul><p>When students are expected to appear uniform, verify more than the general color name.<\/p><h2>Do Boys and Girls Need Different Graduation Gown Colors?<\/h2><p>There is no universal rule requiring different gown colors according to gender.<\/p><p>Schools establish their own commencement traditions.<\/p><p>Some schools use one gown color for the entire graduating class, while others may use more than one color for reasons determined locally.<\/p><p>Follow the school&#8217;s current policy rather than assuming a traditional color arrangement applies.<\/p><h2>CHECK 2: SIZE \u2014 Measure Before Ordering<\/h2><p>Once the required gown has been identified, the next priority is fit.<\/p><p>One of the easiest mistakes to make is treating graduation gowns like ordinary clothing.<\/p><p>A student who normally wears a medium shirt does not necessarily need a &#8220;medium graduation gown.&#8221;<\/p><p>Graduation apparel manufacturers can use different sizing systems.<\/p><h2>What Measurements Are Used for Graduation Gowns?<\/h2><p>Depending on the product, the size chart may consider:<\/p><ul><li>Height<\/li><li>Chest measurement<\/li><li>Weight range<\/li><li>Full-fit requirements<\/li><li>Other manufacturer-specific measurements<\/li><\/ul><p>Always use the size chart for the exact product being ordered.<\/p><h2>Measure Height Correctly<\/h2><p>For a basic height measurement:<\/p><ol><li>Have the student remove shoes.<\/li><li>Stand straight against a wall.<\/li><li>Keep the head level.<\/li><li>Measure from the floor to the top of the head.<\/li><li>Record the actual measurement.<\/li><\/ol><p>Do not rely on the height listed on an old driver&#8217;s permit, sports roster or medical form if the student may have grown.<\/p><h2>Measure Again If Graduation Is Months Away<\/h2><p>High school students can still be growing.<\/p><p>If measurements were taken much earlier in senior year, consider checking them again before ordering.<\/p><h2>How Should a Graduation Gown Fit?<\/h2><p>A properly selected gown should provide the intended ceremonial appearance while allowing the graduate to:<\/p><ul><li>Walk comfortably<\/li><li>Sit comfortably<\/li><li>Raise the arms reasonably<\/li><li>Climb stairs safely<\/li><li>Cross the graduation stage<\/li><\/ul><p>The exact fit and intended length depend on the gown design and manufacturer.<\/p><h2>Do Not Use Extra Gown Length to Solve a Width Problem<\/h2><p>If a student needs additional room through the body or shoulders, do not automatically purchase a gown intended for a much taller person.<\/p><p>Look at the manufacturer&#8217;s full-fit or additional-sizing options when available.<\/p><p>The goal is sufficient room without creating unnecessary gown length.<\/p><h2>Students Between Sizes<\/h2><p>If measurements fall between available options, review the manufacturer&#8217;s recommendations.<\/p><p>Consider:<\/p><ul><li>Student height<\/li><li>Chest measurement<\/li><li>Weight range when used<\/li><li>Clothing underneath<\/li><li>Gown cut<\/li><\/ul><p>A seller&#8217;s size chart should take priority over a generic graduation-gown rule found elsewhere online.<\/p><h2>Remember the Clothing Underneath<\/h2><p>Graduation gowns are worn over clothing.<\/p><p>If a student plans to wear a jacket or another layered outfit, make sure the gown provides appropriate room through the shoulders and chest.<\/p><h2>CHECK 3: PACKAGE \u2014 Know Exactly What You Are Buying<\/h2><p>Once the correct gown and size are identified, examine the actual package.<\/p><p>The phrase &#8220;graduation set&#8221; does not guarantee identical contents from every retailer.<\/p><h2>Basic High School Graduation Set<\/h2><p>A typical basic set may contain:<\/p><ul><li>Graduation gown<\/li><li>Mortarboard cap<\/li><li>Tassel<\/li><\/ul><p>Some products may include additional items, while others may sell certain components separately.<\/p><p>Read the product description carefully.<\/p><h2>The Graduation Gown<\/h2><p>Check the gown for:<\/p><ul><li>Color<\/li><li>Size<\/li><li>Fabric<\/li><li>Matte or shiny finish<\/li><li>Closure style<\/li><li>Package quantity<\/li><\/ul><h2>The Mortarboard<\/h2><p>The traditional square graduation cap is commonly known as a mortarboard.<\/p><p>Before ordering, check:<\/p><ul><li>Cap color<\/li><li>Cap sizing method<\/li><li>Whether it is included with the gown<\/li><li>Whether the tassel is included<\/li><\/ul><h2>How Should the Mortarboard Fit?<\/h2><p>The graduation cap should remain reasonably secure during normal ceremony movement without becoming painfully tight.<\/p><p>Students should test it while:<\/p><ul><li>Standing<\/li><li>Walking<\/li><li>Sitting<\/li><li>Turning the head<\/li><\/ul><h2>Graduation Hairstyles Should Be Tested With the Cap<\/h2><p>Students often plan their hairstyle separately from the graduation cap.<\/p><p>That can create a problem on commencement morning.<\/p><p>Test the planned hairstyle with the mortarboard in advance, especially when the hairstyle adds height or volume around the crown of the head.<\/p><h2>The Graduation Tassel<\/h2><p>The tassel is small, but it is easy to forget.<\/p><p>Verify:<\/p><ul><li>Whether the tassel comes with the package<\/li><li>Required tassel color<\/li><li>Attachment to the mortarboard<\/li><li>Whether a graduation-year charm is required or included when applicable<\/li><\/ul><h2>Which Side Does the Tassel Start On?<\/h2><p>Many U.S. high school ceremonies use a symbolic tassel-moving tradition.<\/p><p>However, the correct starting position and timing should come from the school&#8217;s commencement instructions.<\/p><p>Graduates should follow the ceremony director rather than relying only on a general rule.<\/p><h2>Graduation Stoles<\/h2><p>A graduation stole or sash can be used for school-authorized recognition.<\/p><p>Students should not assume that any personally purchased stole may be worn during commencement.<\/p><p>Check school policy first.<\/p><h2>Honor Cords<\/h2><p>Honor and recognition cords may be awarded for academic achievement, organizations or other school-approved distinctions.<\/p><p>Color meanings are not universally standardized across every high school.<\/p><p>A gold cord, for example, should not automatically be assigned a particular meaning without knowing the school&#8217;s system.<\/p><h2>More Cords Do Not Mean &#8220;More Graduated&#8221;<\/h2><p>Recognition accessories should represent legitimate school-authorized achievements.<\/p><p>Students should not purchase additional cords simply to make the graduation outfit appear more decorated.<\/p><h2>Graduation Medallions<\/h2><p>Some schools issue medallions or similar recognition items.<\/p><p>If a medallion is part of the student&#8217;s authorized graduation attire, test its placement with the gown, stole and cords before commencement.<\/p><h2>Can Students Decorate Their Graduation Caps?<\/h2><p>Cap decoration is another area where school rules differ significantly.<\/p><p>A school may:<\/p><ul><li>Allow decoration<\/li><li>Allow decoration with restrictions<\/li><li>Require prior approval<\/li><li>Prohibit decoration<\/li><\/ul><p>Check before permanently modifying the mortarboard.<\/p><h2>CHECK 4: DELIVERY \u2014 Plan Backward From Graduation Day<\/h2><p>Graduation apparel should not be treated like a product that can safely arrive the night before the ceremony.<\/p><p>Students need time to inspect and try on the regalia.<\/p><h2>Use a Graduation Ordering Timeline<\/h2><p>Think of the timeline as:<\/p><p><strong>Graduation Date \u2212 Fitting Time \u2212 Correction Time \u2212 Shipping Time \u2212 Processing Time = Ordering Window<\/strong><\/p><p>The actual amount of time needed varies according to the product and seller.<\/p><h2>Processing Time and Transit Time Are Different<\/h2><p>If a retailer needs time to prepare an order, that period occurs before carrier transit.<\/p><p>For example, a shipping method describing a certain transit period does not necessarily mean the package leaves the warehouse immediately after the order is placed.<\/p><p>Check both processing and shipping information.<\/p><h2>Personalized or Special Orders Need Extra Attention<\/h2><p>If a graduation product is customized, personalized or specially configured, check:<\/p><ul><li>Production time<\/li><li>Proof or approval process when applicable<\/li><li>Shipping time<\/li><li>Return restrictions<\/li><li>Exchange restrictions<\/li><\/ul><p>Do not assume customized merchandise follows the same return rules as standard stocked products.<\/p><h2>Open the Package When It Arrives<\/h2><p>Do not place an unopened graduation package in a closet until commencement week.<\/p><p>Open it promptly and verify the contents.<\/p><h2>Graduation Gown Arrival Inspection<\/h2><p>Check:<\/p><ul><li>Correct gown color<\/li><li>Correct gown size<\/li><li>Correct fabric or finish<\/li><li>Working zipper or closure<\/li><li>Seams and stitching<\/li><li>No obvious damage<\/li><\/ul><h2>Graduation Cap Arrival Inspection<\/h2><p>Check:<\/p><ul><li>Correct color<\/li><li>Proper fit<\/li><li>Square top condition<\/li><li>Headpiece condition<\/li><li>Tassel attachment point<\/li><\/ul><h2>Tassel and Accessory Inspection<\/h2><p>Verify:<\/p><ul><li>Tassel included when expected<\/li><li>Correct tassel color<\/li><li>Year charm when applicable<\/li><li>Correct cords or stoles if ordered<\/li><li>Correct quantities<\/li><\/ul><h2>What If the Graduation Gown Arrives Wrinkled?<\/h2><p>Some wrinkling can occur while a gown is folded for packaging.<\/p><p>Review the care instructions before attempting to remove wrinkles.<\/p><p>Synthetic graduation fabrics can be sensitive to excessive heat.<\/p><p>Do not automatically place a very hot iron directly onto the gown.<\/p><h2>Give the Gown Time to Hang<\/h2><p>Taking the gown out of its package in advance also gives it time to hang naturally before commencement.<\/p><p>Follow the product&#8217;s care instructions for any additional wrinkle treatment.<\/p><h2>CHECK 5: CEREMONY \u2014 Test the Entire Graduation Outfit<\/h2><p>The final check should happen before graduation day.<\/p><p>This is where the student combines every part of the outfit.<\/p><h2>Conduct a Home Graduation Rehearsal<\/h2><p>Put on:<\/p><ol><li>Graduation-day clothing<\/li><li>Graduation shoes<\/li><li>Gown<\/li><li>Mortarboard<\/li><li>Tassel<\/li><li>Authorized stole<\/li><li>Authorized honor cords<\/li><li>Authorized medallions or other recognition items<\/li><\/ol><p>Then test the outfit instead of simply looking in a mirror.<\/p><h2>The Walking Test<\/h2><p>Walk around the room and check:<\/p><ul><li>Gown length<\/li><li>Shoe clearance<\/li><li>Cap stability<\/li><li>Comfort<\/li><\/ul><h2>The Sitting Test<\/h2><p>Sit in a chair for several minutes.<\/p><p>Check whether:<\/p><ul><li>The gown pulls uncomfortably<\/li><li>Accessories become tangled<\/li><li>The cap shifts<\/li><li>The outfit remains comfortable<\/li><\/ul><h2>The Stair Test<\/h2><p>If it can be done safely, practice walking up and down a few steps.<\/p><p>Many graduation stages require students to use stairs.<\/p><p>Long <a href=\"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/university-college\/masters-cap-and-gown\/gown-only.html\"><strong>Masters gowns<\/strong><\/a> and unfamiliar footwear can make this different from ordinary walking.<\/p><h2>The Handshake Test<\/h2><p>Practice extending the hand as though receiving a diploma cover.<\/p><p>The gown should permit reasonable arm movement without requiring constant adjustment.<\/p><h2>The Photography Test<\/h2><p>Take photographs from:<\/p><ul><li>Front<\/li><li>Back<\/li><li>Side<\/li><\/ul><p>Photographs can reveal issues that a student may not notice in a mirror.<\/p><h2>What Should Students Wear Under the Graduation Gown?<\/h2><p>The best clothing depends on the school&#8217;s dress expectations, weather and venue.<\/p><p>In general, students should choose clothing that is:<\/p><ul><li>Ceremony appropriate<\/li><li>Comfortable<\/li><li>Suitable for the weather<\/li><li>Easy to walk in<\/li><li>Compatible with the gown<\/li><\/ul><p>Remember that the gown can move or open while walking and taking photographs, so clothing underneath may remain visible.<\/p><h2>Graduation Shoes Matter More Than Students Expect<\/h2><p>Graduates may spend considerable time standing and walking.<\/p><p>The day can include:<\/p><ul><li>Parking areas<\/li><li>Staging areas<\/li><li>Processional routes<\/li><li>Stairs<\/li><li>Stages<\/li><li>Grass<\/li><li>Athletic fields<\/li><li>Post-ceremony photographs<\/li><\/ul><p>Choose shoes that can reasonably handle the actual venue.<\/p><h2>Outdoor Graduation Preparation<\/h2><p>Outdoor ceremonies add additional considerations.<\/p><p>Check the forecast and consider:<\/p><ul><li>Heat<\/li><li>Humidity<\/li><li>Wind<\/li><li>Sun exposure<\/li><li>Grass<\/li><li>Uneven ground<\/li><\/ul><p>Students should continue following the school&#8217;s graduation dress requirements while selecting practical clothing and footwear underneath the regalia.<\/p><h2>Graduation Morning: What Should Be Ready?<\/h2><p>Keep all graduation apparel in one location the night before.<\/p><p>A student&#8217;s graduation station might contain:<\/p><ul><li>Gown<\/li><li>Mortarboard<\/li><li>Tassel<\/li><li>Approved cords<\/li><li>Approved stole<\/li><li>Medallions<\/li><li>Graduation clothing<\/li><li>Shoes<\/li><li>Ceremony instructions<\/li><\/ul><p>Do not store the tassel somewhere separate where it can easily be forgotten.<\/p><h2>A Parent&#8217;s 48-Hour Graduation Check<\/h2><p>Two days before commencement, parents and students can confirm:<\/p><ul><li>Gown is ready<\/li><li>Cap is ready<\/li><li>Tassel is attached or packed<\/li><li>Authorized recognition items are together<\/li><li>Graduation clothing is selected<\/li><li>Shoes are ready<\/li><li>Student knows arrival time<\/li><li>Student knows the ceremony location<\/li><li>Student understands school instructions<\/li><\/ul><h2>High School Graduation Regalia for Homeschool Students<\/h2><p>Homeschool graduates may have more flexibility in selecting graduation attire when they are not participating in a ceremony that imposes specific regalia requirements.<\/p><p>Families can establish a coordinated graduation look by choosing:<\/p><ul><li>Gown color<\/li><li>Cap color<\/li><li>Tassel<\/li><li>Permitted recognition accessories<\/li><li>Diploma or certificate presentation materials<\/li><\/ul><p>If the homeschool graduate participates in a larger association or group ceremony, follow that organization&#8217;s dress requirements.<\/p><h2>High School Graduation Regalia for Groups<\/h2><p>Schools, homeschool associations and qualifying organizations ordering for multiple graduates should create a standardized order specification before collecting sizes.<\/p><h3>Group Specification<\/h3><ul><li>Gown color<\/li><li>Gown finish<\/li><li>Gown style<\/li><li>Cap color<\/li><li>Tassel color<\/li><li>Required accessories<\/li><li>Quantity<\/li><li>Delivery deadline<\/li><\/ul><h2>Build a Student Size Roster<\/h2><table><thead><tr><th>Student<\/th><th>Height<\/th><th>Additional Measurement<\/th><th>Selected Size<\/th><th>Accessories<\/th><\/tr><\/thead><tbody><tr><td>Graduate 1<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Graduate 2<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Graduate 3<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><td>_____<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><p>A roster helps reduce sizing errors and makes it easier to review a large order before submission.<\/p><h2>Bulk Graduation Orders: Build in a Verification Stage<\/h2><p>Before submitting a group order, verify:<\/p><ul><li>Total number of graduates<\/li><li>Size quantities<\/li><li>Gown colors<\/li><li>Cap quantities<\/li><li>Tassel quantities<\/li><li>Accessory quantities<\/li><li>Delivery destination<\/li><li>Required delivery date<\/li><\/ul><p>Organizations should also review the supplier&#8217;s current ordering, shipping and return policies.<\/p><h2>10 High School Graduation Regalia Mistakes to Avoid<\/h2><h3>1. Shopping Before Reading the School Rules<\/h3><p>Start with the school&#8217;s requirements.<\/p><h3>2. Guessing the Student&#8217;s Height<\/h3><p>Take a current measurement.<\/p><h3>3. Ordering by T-Shirt Size<\/h3><p>Use the graduation gown&#8217;s own size chart.<\/p><h3>4. Assuming All Gowns of One Color Match<\/h3><p>Shade and fabric can vary.<\/p><h3>5. Ignoring Matte vs. Shiny Finish<\/h3><p>This can affect how closely the gown matches classmates.<\/p><h3>6. Assuming Every Set Includes the Same Products<\/h3><p>Read the package contents.<\/p><h3>7. Buying Unapproved Stoles or Cords<\/h3><p>School permission and eligibility should determine ceremonial accessories.<\/p><h3>8. Modifying the Mortarboard Before Checking the Rules<\/h3><p>Cap-decoration policies vary.<\/p><h3>9. Leaving the Package Unopened<\/h3><p>Inspect graduation apparel promptly after delivery.<\/p><h3>10. Doing the First Full Fitting on Graduation Morning<\/h3><p>Test the complete outfit well in advance.<\/p><h2>High School Graduation Regalia Buying Worksheet<\/h2><ul><li><strong>School:<\/strong> _________________________________<\/li><li><strong>Graduation date:<\/strong> ________________________<\/li><li><strong>Gown color:<\/strong> _____________________________<\/li><li><strong>Gown finish:<\/strong> ____________________________<\/li><li><strong>Student height:<\/strong> _________________________<\/li><li><strong>Additional measurement:<\/strong> ________________<\/li><li><strong>Selected gown size:<\/strong> _____________________<\/li><li><strong>Cap included:<\/strong> Yes \/ No<\/li><li><strong>Tassel included:<\/strong> Yes \/ No<\/li><li><strong>Tassel color:<\/strong> ___________________________<\/li><li><strong>Authorized stole:<\/strong> _______________________<\/li><li><strong>Authorized cords:<\/strong> _______________________<\/li><li><strong>Other authorized accessories:<\/strong> ___________<\/li><li><strong>Order date:<\/strong> _____________________________<\/li><li><strong>Expected arrival:<\/strong> _______________________<\/li><li><strong>Full fitting completed:<\/strong> Yes \/ No<\/li><\/ul><h2>High School Graduation Products From Cap and Gown Outlet<\/h2><p><strong>Cap and Gown Outlet<\/strong> is an independent graduation apparel supplier serving individual graduates, families and qualifying group and institutional customers.<\/p><p>Depending on current inventory and available configurations, graduation products may include:<\/p><ul><li>High school graduation gowns<\/li><li>Graduation caps<\/li><li>Graduation tassels<\/li><li>Cap, gown and tassel sets<\/li><li>Graduation stoles<\/li><li>Honor and recognition cords<\/li><li>Diploma covers<\/li><li>Graduation accessories<\/li><li>Group graduation apparel<\/li><\/ul><p>Product colors, sizes, materials, finishes and package contents vary. Students and parents should compare product specifications with their high school&#8217;s current commencement requirements before ordering.<\/p><h2>Independent Retailer Disclosure<\/h2><p><strong>Cap and Gown Outlet is an independent graduation apparel retailer and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, endorsed by or officially authorized by any high school, school district or educational institution unless an actual relationship has been established.<\/strong><\/p><p>The availability of a particular graduation gown, color, tassel, stole, cord or other graduation product does not mean that it has been approved for a specific school&#8217;s commencement ceremony.<\/p><h2>Frequently Asked Questions About High School Graduation Regalia<\/h2><h3>What is high school graduation regalia?<\/h3><p>High school graduation regalia commonly refers to ceremonial apparel such as the graduation gown, mortarboard and tassel. Schools may also authorize specific recognition accessories.<\/p><h3>What should I check before buying a high school cap and gown?<\/h3><p>Confirm the school&#8217;s gown color, style, fabric or finish requirements, cap and tassel requirements, accessory rules and whether independently purchased regalia is permitted.<\/p><h3>How do I choose a high school graduation gown size?<\/h3><p>Take current measurements and use the size chart for the specific product. Height is commonly important, while some products also use chest measurements, weight ranges or other sizing information.<\/p><h3>Can I use my normal clothing size to order a graduation gown?<\/h3><p>Do not rely on everyday clothing size unless the specific manufacturer&#8217;s chart tells you to do so. Graduation gown sizing can use a different system.<\/p><h3>Can I buy a high school graduation cap and gown online?<\/h3><p>Potentially, provided the school permits independently purchased regalia and the product meets the school&#8217;s requirements.<\/p><h3>What usually comes with a high school cap and gown?<\/h3><p>A basic package may contain a gown, mortarboard and tassel, but package contents vary by seller and product.<\/p><h3>Are matte and shiny graduation gowns interchangeable?<\/h3><p>Not necessarily. If students are expected to match, verify the finish required by the school.<\/p><h3>Are all graduation gowns labeled the same color identical?<\/h3><p>No. Fabric, manufacturer, dye lot, photography and lighting can affect the appearance of a color.<\/p><h3>How should a graduation cap fit?<\/h3><p>It should remain reasonably secure during normal ceremony movement without causing excessive discomfort. Follow the product&#8217;s sizing instructions.<\/p><h3>Can I decorate my high school graduation cap?<\/h3><p>Only if permitted by the school&#8217;s current graduation policy.<\/p><h3>Can I wear my own graduation stole?<\/h3><p>Check school policy. A personally purchased stole is not automatically authorized for commencement.<\/p><h3>Can I buy honor cords to wear at graduation?<\/h3><p>Students should wear recognition items only when they are eligible for them and the school permits them.<\/p><h3>Do honor cord colors mean the same thing at every high school?<\/h3><p>No. Recognition systems can vary between schools and organizations.<\/p><h3>When should I order my graduation cap and gown?<\/h3><p>Order early enough to allow for processing, shipping, inspection, fitting and any permitted exchange or correction. Exact lead times vary.<\/p><h3>Should I try on the entire graduation outfit before commencement?<\/h3><p>Yes. Wear the gown, cap, tassel, authorized accessories, graduation clothing and shoes together before ceremony day.<\/p><h3>Can schools or homeschool groups purchase graduation gowns in bulk?<\/h3><p>Group purchasing may be available depending on the supplier and products. Organizations should establish product specifications, sizes, quantities and delivery requirements before ordering.<\/p><h2>The Five Checks That Make Graduation Preparation Easier<\/h2><p>A successful graduation outfit begins long before commencement morning.<\/p><p>Complete the <strong>School Check<\/strong> first so you know exactly what the student is permitted or required to wear.<\/p><p>Next, complete the <strong>Size Check<\/strong> using current measurements and the specific gown&#8217;s sizing chart.<\/p><p>Use the <strong>Package Check<\/strong> to verify the gown, mortarboard, tassel and any additional products included with the order.<\/p><p>Complete the <strong>Delivery Check<\/strong> by ordering with enough time to inspect the apparel and address problems before graduation.<\/p><p>Finally, complete the <strong>Ceremony Check<\/strong> with a full dress rehearsal using the student&#8217;s actual graduation clothing, shoes and school-authorized accessories.<\/p><p>Those five simple checks can turn <a href=\"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/university-college\/bachelors-cap-and-gown.html\"><strong>Bachelors cap-and-gown<\/strong><\/a> preparation from a last-minute task into one less thing for students and parents to worry about as graduation day approaches.<\/p><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Senior year contains plenty of important dates, but few are anticipated as much as high school graduation. For students, commencement is the moment when years of schoolwork finally lead to walking across the stage. For parents and families, it is also a milestone filled with photographs, celebrations and memories. Before that day arrives, however, someone [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":3212,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"site-sidebar-layout":"default","site-content-layout":"","ast-site-content-layout":"default","site-content-style":"default","site-sidebar-style":"default","ast-global-header-display":"","ast-banner-title-visibility":"","ast-main-header-display":"","ast-hfb-above-header-display":"","ast-hfb-below-header-display":"","ast-hfb-mobile-header-display":"","site-post-title":"","ast-breadcrumbs-content":"","ast-featured-img":"","footer-sml-layout":"","ast-disable-related-posts":"","theme-transparent-header-meta":"","adv-header-id-meta":"","stick-header-meta":"","header-above-stick-meta":"","header-main-stick-meta":"","header-below-stick-meta":"","astra-migrate-meta-layouts":"set","ast-page-background-enabled":"default","ast-page-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"ast-content-background-meta":{"desktop":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"tablet":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""},"mobile":{"background-color":"var(--ast-global-color-5)","background-image":"","background-repeat":"repeat","background-position":"center center","background-size":"auto","background-attachment":"scroll","background-type":"","background-media":"","overlay-type":"","overlay-color":"","overlay-opacity":"","overlay-gradient":""}},"footnotes":""},"categories":[4],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-3211","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-graduation-accessories"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3211","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=3211"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/3211\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/3212"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=3211"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=3211"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.graduationcapandgowndepot.com\/resources\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=3211"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}