Colors may be used for beautification purposes, but for students celebrating their success on graduation day, colors are definitely more than that.
From your caps and gowns to graduation stoles, hoods and cords, colors have been significant indications of identity and achievement among the graduates. It's more than just a simple accessory to enhance the overall appeal of their graduation regalia.
Colors signify certain areas of study and academic excellence, and it's very important for students to be aware of what these colors mean even before they march up that stage and receive their diplomas.
Gradshop has compiled some of the most popular stole and cord colors including their meanings to guide students on what color suits them best. Unless your school requires you of a certain color for your stole or cord, you're free to scroll down and browse to pick your bet!
1. Blue
2. Silver
3. White
4. Maroon
5. Gold
6. Purple
Different schools and universities have their own rules and guidelines as to the wearing of graduation stoles and cords. Some might requires students to have a specific color of stoles and some might give students the freewill to wear their own.
School sororities and organizations will most likely have their custom stoles and sashes as well. For instance, the sorority group, African-American Delta Sigma Theta, uses the colors crimson and cream to symbolize their group (though the meaning of the colors are only revealed on its members).
Despite the differences of rules schools have, the American Council on Education (ACE) does have this academic costume code that is being recommended to American colleges and universities.
But to those who'd really like to add a personal touch on their graduation stoles and cords, you may always choose a color of your own and have it embroidered with your graduation year as a remembrance.
Take time to learn about your academic degree color and pick the perfect stole and cords that represents you well!
You can find great bargains for graduation stoles here and honor cords here.
Graduation is a special event, make sure you color it well!