Graduation day is a momentous occasion, marking the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. One of the most iconic symbols of this achievement is the graduation cap, also known as a mortarboard. The way you wear your cap can make a significant difference in your overall appearance and photographic opportunities. Here are five ways to wear your cap for a stylish and memorable graduation day.
Key Points
- Traditional wear: The classic way to wear a graduation cap, sitting flat on the head.
- Angled wear: Adding a touch of personality by tilting the cap at a slight angle.
- Backwards wear: A trendy option, wearing the cap backwards for a casual look.
- Slouch wear: A relaxed, slouched position, perfect for a laid-back graduation vibe.
- Decorated wear: Personalizing the cap with decorations, making it a unique expression of the graduate's personality.
Understanding the Basics of Wearing a Graduation Cap
The graduation cap is an integral part of academic regalia, typically consisting of a square board attached to a skullcap, with a tassel dangling from the top. The board usually has a velvet surface, and the tassel is made of silk or cotton threads. The cap’s design varies slightly depending on the institution and the degree being awarded. For instance, doctoral graduates often wear a cap with a gold tassel, while bachelor’s and master’s graduates wear caps with black or colored tassels corresponding to their field of study.
1. Traditional Wear
The traditional way to wear a graduation cap is to have it sit flat on the head, with the board parallel to the ground. This is the most common and formal way to wear the cap, making it suitable for official photographs and ceremonies. To achieve this look, place the cap on your head, ensuring the velvet board is flat and even. Adjust the cap so that it is centered and the tassel falls to the right side of your face for bachelor’s and master’s graduates or to the left for doctoral graduates.
2. Angled Wear
For a more personalized touch, you can wear your graduation cap at a slight angle. This look adds a bit of personality to the traditional wear and can make for interesting and unique photos. To wear your cap at an angle, simply tilt it slightly to one side while maintaining its balance on your head. Be careful not to tilt it too much, as this can make the cap look unstable or about to fall off.
3. Backwards Wear
A trendy and casual way to wear your graduation cap is backwards. This look is perfect for post-ceremony celebrations or casual graduation photos with friends and family. To wear your cap backwards, simply place it on your head with the velvet board facing the back. This style is more relaxed and can add a fun, laid-back vibe to your graduation attire.
4. Slouch Wear
The slouch wear is another relaxed way to wear your graduation cap, perfect for a laid-back graduation vibe. This style involves wearing the cap slightly back on the head, allowing it to slouch downwards. The slouch wear is casual and can be a great way to express your personality during less formal graduation activities.
5. Decorated Wear
Finally, one of the most expressive ways to wear your graduation cap is by decorating it. Personalizing your cap with decorations, quotes, or symbols related to your field of study, hobbies, or personal achievements can make it a unique expression of your personality. When decorating your cap, ensure that the decorations do not obstruct the view or distract from the formal nature of the graduation ceremony. Keep the decorations tasteful and relevant to your academic journey or future aspirations.
| Graduation Cap Styles | Description |
|---|---|
| Traditional | Worn flat on the head, formal and classic. |
| Angled | Worn at a slight angle, adds personality. |
| Backwards | Worn with the board facing backwards, casual and trendy. |
| Slouch | Worn slightly back on the head, relaxed and casual. |
| Decorated | Personalized with decorations, unique and expressive. |
In conclusion, the way you wear your graduation cap can significantly impact your graduation day experience. Whether you choose a traditional, angled, backwards, slouch, or decorated wear, ensure it reflects your personality and complements the occasion. Remember, your graduation cap is a symbol of your hard work and dedication, so wear it with pride and make the most of this special day.
What is the traditional way to wear a graduation cap?
+The traditional way to wear a graduation cap is to have it sit flat on the head, with the board parallel to the ground and the tassel falling to the right side for bachelor’s and master’s graduates or to the left for doctoral graduates.
Can I decorate my graduation cap?
+Yes, you can decorate your graduation cap. However, ensure that the decorations are tasteful, relevant to your academic journey or future aspirations, and do not obstruct the view or distract from the formal nature of the graduation ceremony.
What are the different ways to wear a graduation cap?
+There are five main ways to wear a graduation cap: traditional, angled, backwards, slouch, and decorated. Each style offers a unique way to express your personality and commemorate your graduation day.
