Graduation Day in Derby: How to Prepare and What to Bring

Introduction

Your graduation day at the University of Derby is one of the most exciting milestones of your academic journey, a moment to celebrate years of effort, late nights, and perseverance. To make sure everything runs smoothly, preparation is key.

From securing your gown rental in Derby to planning your outfit, tickets, and photos, this guide walks you through exactly what to do before, during, and after your ceremony - so you can focus on celebrating your success, not stressing over the details.

Key Points:

• Preparation starts weeks before the ceremony - plan your gown, tickets, and outfit early.
• The University of Derby requires official academic dress for all graduates.
• Bring essentials like your ceremony confirmation, ID, and camera.
• Churchill Gowns ensures early gown delivery and a perfect fit for every student.

Before the Big Day

1. Order Your Gown Early

Wearing the correct academic dress is mandatory at the University of Derby. Churchill Gowns provides graduation gown sets that match Derby’s official dress code - complete with gown, hood, and mortarboard.

• Hire from (£34): Ideal for one-day use, with prepaid return label included.
• Purchase from (£90): Perfect if you’d like to keep your gown as a memento.

Timing Tip: Order your gown at least 2 - 3 weeks before your ceremony to ensure delivery in time to try it on and check the fit.

2. Confirm Your Ceremony Details

You’ll receive details about your Derby graduation ceremony from the university, including the date, session time and guest ticket information. Double-check all details before the day to avoid surprises.

Bring your registration confirmation or email copy to ensure smooth entry to your ceremony.

3. Plan Your Outfit

Your gown will be the centrepiece, but what you wear underneath matters too.

• Choose smart, comfortable clothing - collared shirts, dresses, or blouses look best.
• Avoid bulky jackets or wide collars that can bunch up under your gown.
• Pick shoes that are both elegant and easy to walk in; you’ll be on your feet a lot!

Pro Tip: The University of Derby’s gown colours include red, light blue, and black - neutral or light-coloured outfits complement them beautifully.

On the Day: Step-by-Step

Arrival

Arrive early, at least 1.5 - 2 hours before your scheduled ceremony. This allows time to collect your tickets, check your gown, and take photos before the event begins.

💡 If you’ve hired your gown through Churchill Gowns, it’ll already have arrived at your home, so you can skip long queues on the day.

Ceremony Etiquette

Graduations at Derby are formal occasions. Here are a few quick etiquette tips to help things go smoothly:

• Switch your phone to silent before entering the venue.
• Stand when directed by ushers during the ceremony.
• Walk across the stage confidently and smile for the official photo.

🎓 Tassel Tip: Most universities, including Derby, ask students to wear the tassel on one side of the cap before the ceremony and move it after your award is conferred. Check your programme booklet for confirmation.

Photography and Memories

Capture the moment - literally!

• Take photos before and after the ceremony at landmarks like the Kedleston Road campus or Derby Cathedral.
• If you’ve hired your gown, make sure to take plenty of portraits while you have it.
• Consider booking a professional graduation photography session for timeless keepsakes.

Your Graduation Day Checklist

Here’s what to bring to make your Derby graduation day stress-free:

🎓 Essentials

• Gown, hood, and mortarboard from Churchill Gowns
• Ceremony registration confirmation or ticket
• Valid ID (student card or driver’s licence)
• Prepaid return label (for hire gowns)

📸 Extras

• Camera or smartphone (fully charged)
• Hair clips or pins (to secure your cap)
• A small bag for personal items
• Makeup or a compact mirror for quick touch-ups

💧 Just in Case

• Water bottle and light snacks
• Umbrella (it’s Derby, after all!)

After the Ceremony

Once the celebrations end, it’s time to return your gown if you’ve hired it. Churchill Gowns makes this easy:

• Place the gown back in its box.
• Attach the prepaid returns label provided.
• Post it within two days of your ceremony.

If you purchased your gown, store it in a cool, dry place - ideally in a garment bag to preserve it for future use or photos.

Why Choose Churchill Gowns for Your University of Derby Graduation

• Accurate academic dress: Matches official University of Derby colours and styles.
• Affordable options: Best price guarantee on hire and purchase packages.
• Trusted by thousands: Over 50,000 UK graduates have chosen Churchill Gowns.
• Easy process: Early delivery, comfortable fit, and simple returns.

From gown hire to home delivery, we make your graduation experience seamless, so you can focus on celebrating your success.

Conclusion

Your University of Derby graduation marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter. With a little preparation, the right outfit and your gown from Churchill Gowns, you’ll walk across the stage ready to shine.

🎓 Order your Derby graduation gown today - hire or buy your complete set online at ChurchillGowns.com.

 

FAQs

Do I have to wear a gown at my University of Derby graduation?

Yes. All graduates must wear the official academic gown, hood, and mortarboard.

How early should I order my gown?

We recommend ordering as soon as your graduation date is confirmed to ensure timely delivery.

Can I buy my gown instead of hiring it?

Yes. You can either hire for £34 or purchase your full set for £90 from Churchill Gowns.

What should I wear under my gown?

Smart, comfortable clothing - neutral colours work best with Derby’s red and blue tones.

When will my gown arrive?

Hire gowns are dispatched to arrive at least two days before your ceremony, giving you time to prepare.