What are the graduates wearing and what does each style of robe signify?
Every participant in the University of Kentucky Commencement will be attired in the traditional basic-black academic cap and gown. But the caps and gowns may be adorned by sleeves, tassels and hoods that bespeak the degree he or she is receiving or currently holds. The sleeves of gowns identify the type of degree the graduate will receive. The gown for bachelor’s degrees has pointed sleeves, and is designed to be worn closed. The master’s degree gown has an oblong sleeve, open at the wrist, with the rear part of the sleeve being square cut and the front part having a cut-away arc. This gown is designed to be worn either open or closed. The doctor’s degree gown has a bell-shaped sleeve that bears three velvet bars, which are usually black but can be other colors, depending on the degree. Originally intended to shield the wearer from inclement weather, the hood now hangs loosely along the shoulders and back. The bachelor’s hood is rather short with a narrow velvet edging that bears the c
