Academic Dress History

Origins

The academic dress worn by today's graduates is a modified-form of the everyday dress worn by scholars and teachers in the Middle Ages. It consists of a gown with full length flowing sleeves, a trencher cap or bonnet, and a hood which is a remnant of the cowl worn by monks to cover their head and shoulders.

The style of academic dress adopted by Monash University is based on that of the University of Cambridge, with the exception of the dress for higher doctorates which is based on the academic dress of the University of Oxford.

The Hood

It is thought that the hood currently in use is a remnant of the ancient monk's cowl which was used to cover the head and shoulders in the cold medieval monasteries. When not in use as a head covering the cowl hung down at the back.

When the hood is worn correctly, the lining is always on the inside. The opening of the hood should be allowed to fall to the right side exposing a portion of the lining on the right shoulder and right side of the back. The hood should not be allowed to fall off the shoulders. This can impede the free movement of the arms and projects an unkempt image. The hood is the most distinctive and particular part of the academic dress as it identifies the University and the degree of the wearer according to the colours, trimmings and their placement.

The hood is in turquoise blue which is distinctive to Monash University. The colour of the edging identifies the faculty according the following code:

Headwear

All graduates except doctorates wear a trencher cap.
The cap is worn flat or horizontal with the tassel down over the left eye.
All doctorates wear a round black velvet bonnet trimmed with peony red or gold cord and tassels.

Gown and Hood

The gown should drape open with the hood or stole draping naturally over the shoulders and back. The hoods are equipped with a button loop to keep them in place whilst draped over the shoulders. To look your best, and to ensure comfort, it is strongly recommended that graduands wear a buttoned shirt or blouse to accomodate the button loop on the hood, as illustrated below.