Cutting Corners on Graduation Gowns
You’re graduating soon, but don’t know whether you can afford an expensive gown and cap; you don’t want to go in just about any cheap graduation robe either. What do you do, then? Well, you become a smart spender, that’s what you do! We’ve even compiled a list of ways in which you can save money on gowns and caps for graduation.
Before going into that, you will need some basic information about your gown.
1) Design
Remember, robes for high school graduates are different from those for undergrads, which are different from those for grads, which in turn differ from the gowns that doctor’s degree-holders are supposed to wear. Find out the design of the robe that you’ll be wearing. Research! And double-check every bit of information.
2) Size
Again, do your research - find out which measurements are required for graduation gowns and how they’re taken. One way to do this would be to check sample diagrams on the websites of online graduation gown vendors. Otherwise, check with a tailor in your area. Remember, you don’t need to take measurements for graduation caps; they usually come with elastic edges, and “one size fits all” - unless you have a very large head, in which case, you can always make a mortarboard at home.
3) Color
What color is your gown going to be? For degrees or diplomas below Baccalaureate, lighter gowns (generally gray) are required. Some high schools, however, prefer their mascot color; others require separate colors for boys and girls. Confirm this with someone in the organization committee of the graduation ceremony.
Now that you’ve gathered everything that you needed to know about your graduation gown and cap, it is time to save money! And here’s how you can do that:
1) Don’t buy; rent!
Find out which company your school recommends for your graduation gown and cap. Go through the vendor’s website or catalog, and find out if they offer rental services. Many do, and chances are that your will too. While this will save you money, you will need to make sure that you don’t have any accidents with the gown or the cap - the company will want it back intact.
2) Hand-me-downs
Search for people who are willing to sell their graduation gowns. You could start with the classifieds section of the local daily; or one of the several online retail stores. Before buying it, however, make sure that it fulfills all your requirements of design, size and color.
3) Resale
If you absolutely couldn’t find anything online or anywhere else, buy a new one anyway, and then sell it after your graduation. This way you’ll be sure to get some money back!