Buying your PhD regalia is a major milestone—it’s the shift from renting a polyester "one-size-fits-none" gown to owning a custom-tailored piece of your academic history. Unlike the generic black robes of undergrad years, doctoral regalia is defined by rich velvet, heavy fabrics, and the specific colors of your degree and university. 1. The Anatomy of Doctoral Regalia
While most Ph.D. hoods use Dark Blue velvet, many universities (like Harvard, Yale, or Stanford) have their own unique gown colors (Crimson, Blue, or Cardinal). Check if your school requires a specific color gown or if standard black is acceptable.
Pros: Very affordable (); looks great from a distance or for a one-time ceremony.
The most colorful part. The velvet trim indicates your field (e.g., Dark Blue for Ph.D., Light Blue for Ed.D., Drab for Business), while the silk lining shows your university’s colors.
Cons: Thinner fabric; the velvet may feel more like "velveteen" or felt. 3. Key Considerations Before You Click "Order"
A velvet hat (usually 4, 6, or 8-sided) instead of a square mortarboard.
Most universities partner with brands like Herff Jones or Jostens . These are "official" sets with custom-dyed fabrics and school-specific emblems. Pros: Guaranteed accuracy; premium quality. Cons: Can cost anywhere from $600 to $1,200+ .