Custom of wearing regalia came into existence in 14th century. This custom highlights the honor and background of graduate institutions. Their dressing pattern consists of gowns with graduation robes. Almost all the graduate institutions follow these styles. Did you ever thought of the materials used for manufacturing of academic dresses? Let us discuss the reasons for selecting particular materials for academic dresses.
Location of the institution is an important factor determining the material of dress. Climate of the place depends on location. Therefore, suitable materials are to be used based on the climate of the place. Academic costume for some particular region will look almost similar. This is due to the similarity in climactic behavior of that place. Materials selected for manufacturing clothes should provide comfort to the wearer. It should be lighter and could be used in tropical climates. Heavier materials in warmer climates are not good matches. Some materials used for academic gowns are rayon, cotton, silk, broadcloth, etc.
Economic factor is another thing determining the material of dresses. It varies from most expensive to extreme economical. Quality of the material also varies according to the price value of the fabric. Most of the BA and MA degree universities in USA are authorized to use expensive fabric for cloth. However, in some doctoral colleges, as part of savings they rent cloth on that particular day of an event. Inexpensive polyesters or synthetic fiber will be the material used for manufacturing non-expensive college graduation gowns. There are also undergraduate gowns used in some popular colleges in London and America.
Finer fabrics like poplin, cotton, princeetta, cassimere, wool, bengaline, russel cord is opted by most because of the fine nature of fabric. Silk varies from artificial, rayon; corded silk, ribbed silk, short silk, etc. Ottoman silk is expensive and is rarely used in official gowns. There are gowns decorated with cords, lace, buttons, etc.
Earlier rabbit fur is used for lining some hoods. Now, animal rights are more and hunting of animal is a crime. So in order to ensure regulations, materials like synthetic cloth are used. Some manufacturers keep an account of customer satisfaction and strictly follow the quality and standards.
Doctors use bright colored gowns. They will be of wool, damask, brocade, panama, etc. The material of such materials will be most expensive. Dye used for dipping such fabrics will be powerful and concentrated. These colors are used to dye the fabrics and colored silk or wool is used to add more attractions, several undressed versions are also seen for doctors. These will be available cheap cost.
It could help to purchase at lower price like 50-100$. So look upon the material while selecting the academic dress.
