Your graduation day is finally here, and you deserve to look absolutely stunning in your gown! Getting the right fit isn’t complicated, but it does require taking a few simple measurements beforehand. Let’s walk through exactly how to measure yourself so your graduation gown fits perfectly on your big day.
Why Proper Measurements Matter
A graduation gown that’s too long can trip you up as you walk across the stage, while one that’s too short might look awkward in your photos. The right fit ensures you look polished and feel confident throughout your ceremony.
Taking accurate measurements takes just five minutes but makes all the difference. Whether you’re graduating from UNISA, UJ, TUT, or any other institution across South Africa, these tips will help you get it right the first time.
The Essential Measurements You Need
Here’s what you’ll need to measure:
- Height: Stand against a wall without shoes and measure from the floor to the top of your head. This is the most important measurement for gown length.
- Chest: Wrap the tape measure around the fullest part of your chest, keeping it level and snug but not tight.
- Shoulder width: Measure from the edge of one shoulder to the other across your back.
Write these measurements down and keep them handy when placing your order. If you’re between sizes, it’s usually better to go slightly larger for comfort.
Tips for Accurate Measurements
For the best results, wear clothes similar to what you’ll wear on graduation day. If you’re planning to wear heels, factor that into your height measurement by adding the heel height.
Ask a friend or family member to help you measure – it’s much easier than trying to do it yourself, especially for the chest and shoulder measurements. Make sure the tape measure is straight and not twisted for accurate readings.
What About Hoods and Accessories?
Don’t forget about your academic hood! The hood colour represents your faculty and degree, so double-check your institution’s requirements. At MD Gowns, we stock hoods for all major South African universities and can help you find the right one for your qualification.
Consider adding a graduation stole for that extra touch of elegance. Our stoles complement your gown beautifully and photograph wonderfully.
Ready to Order Your Graduation Gown?
Now that you have your measurements sorted, you’re ready to hire your graduation attire! At MD Gowns, all our gowns are freshly cleaned and hygienically pressed before each hire, so you’ll look and feel your absolute best.
We offer the lowest prices in South Africa with nationwide delivery, so whether you’re in Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, or anywhere else, we’ve got you covered. Browse our Masters graduation stole and hood hire options and complete your graduation look today!