Over many centuries, academic tradition has fashioned a uniform code for apparel that identifies the level of degree, field of study, and college or university attended. Graduate students earn hoods that identify their academic concentration by the color on the velvet collar and a satin lining displaying their school colors.
The hood is to be placed over the gown around the neck and shoulders so that the larger portion with the satin colors hangs down the wearer's back. The velvet border is worn facing out, with the wide velvet positioned as the upper band on the hood (under the chin) and the narrow satin trim positioned as the lower band. Smooth the velvet band and satin trim into place as the hood is draped over the shoulders and down the back.
There is a loop attached to the front of the hood that should be fastened to a shirt, dress, or the zipper of the gown so that the hood is not pressing on the front of the wearer’s neck. Use a safety pin if needed. To expose the satin chevron lining in back, starting at the middle-back level, turn the free edge of velvet border, below the shoulders, with the fingertips out to the sides and under in a small “inside out” maneuver—this will cause the satin lining to roll into view. Secure the cord at the upper back to both buttons found in the lining to keep the hood from spreading apart in back and falling off the shoulders.