
The academic dress at Georgetown University has its roots in medieval times, when a warm gown and hood were useful for scholars and clerics in unheated buildings. The hood's colour differs across degrees, with law students wearing imperial purple. The Law Centre's regalia consists of a gown with velvet bands, a hood, and a six-cornered velvet tam with a purple tassel, signifying the study of law.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Gown | Black with velvet bands |
| Hood | Peacock blue with white velvet trim |
| Tam | Six-cornered with a purple tassel |
| Tassel | Black or gold, depending on the degree |
| Rental cost | $122 |
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What You'll Learn
- The gown is part of the regalia, which consists of a gown, hood and tam with a tassel
- The hood is imperial purple, signifying the study of law
- The academic dress has roots in medieval times, where rank was displayed through jewellery
- The regalia can be rented for $122
- The Georgetown Mace leads the procession for ceremonies where degrees are awarded

The gown is part of the regalia, which consists of a gown, hood and tam with a tassel
The gown is a significant part of the graduation regalia at Georgetown Law, which consists of a gown, hood, and tam with a tassel. Together, these elements create a traditional academic outfit that holds symbolic value and represents the achievements of the graduates.
The gown, as part of the regalia, carries a sense of prestige and scholarly distinction. It serves as a visual representation of the graduate's dedication and hard work throughout their academic journey. The specific design of the gown, including its cut, fabric, and any decorative elements, may vary depending on the degree being conferred.
At Georgetown Law, the regalia gown is adorned with velvet bands, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the overall ensemble. This distinct feature sets it apart from gowns worn at other institutions or for different degrees. The velvet bands not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the gown but also symbolize the importance and prestige associated with a legal education.
Accompanying the gown is the hood, which holds significant meaning in the academic regalia. The hood's colour and design carry specific information about the graduate's degree and academic discipline. At Georgetown, the hoods for law students are imperial purple, signifying their field of study. This colour stands out and immediately identifies the wearer as a graduate of the law programme.
The tam, a type of academic cap, is another essential component of the regalia. The tam at Georgetown Law is designed with six corners and crafted from velvet, adding a touch of sophistication to the graduate's attire. Adorned with a tassel, the tam completes the traditional academic look. The tassel itself holds symbolic value, with the colour purple specifically chosen to represent the study of law.
The regalia, including the gown, hood, and tam with a tassel, serves as more than just ceremonial attire. It is a physical representation of the graduates' accomplishments and a connection to the rich academic traditions of the past. By wearing the regalia, graduates proudly display their affiliation with Georgetown Law and become a part of the institution's longstanding legacy.
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The hood is imperial purple, signifying the study of law
The academic dress and graduation ceremonies of Georgetown University have a rich history and a variety of traditions. While regalia is not required to participate in any of the Georgetown Law commencement events, many graduates choose to wear the attire. The hood is a significant part of the academic regalia, and for law students at Georgetown, it is imperial purple. This colour is symbolic of the study of law and sets law graduates apart from other disciplines.
The academic dress has its roots in medieval times, when warm gowns and hoods were practical for scholars and clerics in unheated buildings. Over time, these garments took on a more symbolic purpose, indicating rank and authority. In the modern era, the hood colour signifies the graduate's academic discipline, while the lining of the hood carries the colours of the university that granted the degree.
At Georgetown, the hoods' colours differ across degrees. For example, College of Arts and Sciences graduates receiving a Bachelor of Arts wear a hood with white trim, while Bachelor of Science graduates have gold trim. The hood for law students is imperial purple, a colour that is distinct and representative of their field of study.
The regalia for law students at Georgetown consists of a gown with velvet bands, a hood in imperial purple, and a six-cornered velvet tam with a purple tassel. The combination of these elements creates a cohesive and distinctive academic dress that is specific to the Law Centre. The rental of regalia is available for graduates who wish to participate in the commencement ceremonies.
The graduation ceremonies at Georgetown are carefully planned and include processions led by a marshal bearing the ceremonial staff, known as the mace. The mace is a symbol of authority and has the university seal emblazoned on it. The graduation ceremonies are a celebration of the achievements of the students and a showcase of the traditions and history of the university.
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The academic dress has roots in medieval times, where rank was displayed through jewellery
Academic dress, also known as academic regalia, has a long history that dates back to medieval times. The roots of academic dress can be traced to the clothing of medieval clergy, which in turn was influenced by civilian attire. During this period, university scholars were required to wear a specific type of gown, known as the clerkly gown, along with the tonsure, a type of haircut.
In medieval Europe, the concept of academic dress evolved, and universities began to establish specific dress codes for their faculties. The cappa clausa, a type of cloak, became associated with Doctors of Theology and Masters of Arts, who were often priests. The pileus, a type of headgear, was also adopted by the clergy and became part of the academic dress. By the fourteenth century, the shape and cut of academic dress became standardised, and the significance of colour was introduced.
In medieval times, rank and status were often displayed through jewellery and elaborate clothing. Members of the clergy, for example, were known to wear heavy gold chains, tiaras, and crowns, and other ornate accessories. Bright colours, rich decorations, and fine materials were commonly used to signify wealth and status. Noble women wore fine dresses, especially during social events such as medieval tournaments. Men also competed in displays of fashion, with younger aristocratic men wearing extremely long and pointed shoes called crakowes or poulaines.
The academic dress of Georgetown Law graduates includes a gown with velvet bands, a hood, and a six-cornered velvet tam with a purple tassel. This specific combination of regalia signifies the study of law and is consistent with the tradition of academic dress originating from medieval times. The use of distinct regalia for different degrees and institutions reflects the evolution of academic dress over the centuries, incorporating elements of medieval fashion and symbolism.
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The regalia can be rented for $122
The graduation regalia for Georgetown Law consists of a gown with velvet bands, a hood, and a six-cornered velvet tam with a tassel in purple, signifying the study of law. The hoods for law students are imperial purple, while Bachelor of Arts graduates wear a hood with white trim and Bachelor of Science graduates have gold trim. The lining of the hood carries the colours of the university, with blue and grey being the colours of Georgetown. The rental cost for the regalia is $122, and graduates can rent the attire on Josten's website or from the Law Centre Bookstore. The regalia must be returned to the Law Centre Bookstore or the Main Campus Bookstores no later than the specified deadline, which is usually a few days after the commencement ceremony.
The academic dress has its roots in medieval times, when men and women wore their rank in the form of jewellery and elaborate headwear. In the modern era, the custom of wearing academic regalia continues to symbolise the institution's history, traditions, and prestige. The Georgetown Mace, for instance, leads the procession for ceremonies where degrees are awarded, symbolising the authority of the faculty. The university's flag, displaying the Georgetown seal, is also carried in the procession.
While the regalia is not mandatory for Georgetown Law Commencement events, many graduates opt to wear it. The regalia rental includes the full set, comprising a gown, hood, tassel, and cap. Graduates are responsible for ensuring timely orders and pickups, adhering to the specified deadlines. The regalia enhances the ceremonial aspect of graduation, providing a visual representation of the academic discipline and degree earned.
The rental cost of $122 for the regalia is a standard rate for graduates wishing to participate in the commencement ceremony. This rate allows graduates to don the traditional attire, aligning with the academic traditions of Georgetown Law. The regalia rental process is designed to be convenient, with online and in-person options available for graduates to obtain their academic regalia. The deadline for ordering the regalia is usually set a few months before the commencement ceremony, and graduates are expected to return the rented regalia promptly after the event.
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The Georgetown Mace leads the procession for ceremonies where degrees are awarded
The Georgetown Mace, commissioned in 1982, leads the procession for ceremonies where degrees are awarded. The Mace is a heavy staff with an azurite stone protruding from the top. On the front of the mace, the university's seal is emblazoned. On the back, facing the procession leader, is the seal of the Society of Jesus. The older mace features the Latin phrase "Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam", which translates to "for the greater glory of God". The Mace symbolises the university's authority and is a reminder of the learning process's challenges.
The Mace is carried by the University Marshal, who is appointed from among the faculty. The procession is a symbolic part of the graduation ceremony, with every minute carefully planned. Graduates wear academic regalia, including gowns, caps, and hoods, with colours and styles varying by degree type and academic level. For instance, law students wear imperial purple hoods, while Bachelor of Arts graduates wear hoods with white trim.
While regalia is not mandatory for Georgetown Law graduates, many choose to wear the attire, which consists of a gown with velvet bands, a hood, and a six-cornered velvet tam with a purple tassel. The rental regalia is available for pick-up before the commencement and must be returned shortly after. The procession includes graduates from various schools, with flags representing each school carried by student representatives.
The Georgetown Mace is one of three at the university, with the official one kept in the President's Office. The Mace is a centuries-old tradition, granting officials the authority to meet, restore order, or pass laws, as seen in governing bodies like the U.S. House of Representatives. It adds a symbolic and traditional touch to the commencement ceremonies, making them meaningful and memorable for graduates and their loved ones.
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Frequently asked questions
The Georgetown Law graduation gown is a different color because it is traditional for academic gowns to represent the specific institution and academic discipline. The hoods’ colors differ across degrees, with law students wearing imperial purple.
The color of the gown signifies the study of law, with the velvet bands and tam representing the academic discipline.
Yes, each law school has its own unique color and style of gown to represent their institution.
You can purchase a Georgetown Law graduation gown from the University bookstore or rent one from Josten’s website.
Yes, graduates also wear a hood and a six-cornered velvet tam with a purple tassel. The hood carries the colors of the university and the border indicates the academic discipline.
![Historic Framed Print, [Secretary of State Frank Kellogg, in cap and gown, being honored with the Degree of Doctor of Laws, by Georgetown University, standing with three other men], 17-7/8" x 21-7/8"](https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/414U18nUInL._AC_UL320_.jpg)










































