University of Strathclyde Graduation Gown Guide: Tradition and Style

Introduction

Graduating from the University of Strathclyde is a milestone steeped in Scottish academic tradition. The ceremony celebrates both your hard work and your place in a long-standing heritage of scholarship. One of the most recognisable parts of that tradition is the Strathclyde graduation gown, a symbol of achievement, identity, and pride.

At Churchill Gowns, we provide official-style Strathclyde academic dress that matches university specifications perfectly, ensuring you’re ceremony-ready with confidence and style.

Key Points:

• All Strathclyde graduates must wear the correct gown and hood for their degree level.
• Bachelors and masters gowns are black; hoods are blue with degree-specific linings.
• Caps are optional - not part of official dress, but great for photos.
• Hire your full set from £34 or purchase it from £90 through Churchill Gowns.

Understanding University of Strathclyde Academic Dress

A Tradition of Excellence

Academic dress at Strathclyde follows a proud Scottish tradition, formal, elegant, and symbolic. Every graduate must wear the appropriate gown and hood corresponding to their qualification. Without the correct attire, students cannot join the procession or receive their award.

Strathclyde Gown and Hood Designs

Bachelor’s Gown and Hood

• Gown: Classic black with large open sleeves.
• Hood: Blue, square in shape, lined and trimmed according to the degree:
• • BA - Blue hood lined white
  • BSc - Blue hood lined gold
  • BEng - Blue hood lined gold and a white fur edge

These small details make each hood unique, helping to identify the discipline and level of study at a glance.

Master’s Gown and Hood

• Gown: Black with long enclosed sleeves for a formal, refined silhouette.
• Hood: Blue, square-cut and lined with faculty-specific colours, matching the degree discipline.

Whether you’ve earned a Master of Science, Engineering, or Arts, the Strathclyde master’s gown distinguishes you from undergraduate graduates through its distinctive sleeve design.

Doctoral Regalia

Doctoral robes at Strathclyde are elaborate and vibrant, typically in blue and worn with the bachelor's or masters style hood.

Caps and Mortarboards

Caps are not part of official academic dress at Strathclyde, a tradition shared by many Scottish universities. However, many graduates choose to hire a mortarboard for photography. It’s an elegant finishing touch that adds polish to portraits and commemorative photos.

Hire or Purchase Your Strathclyde Graduation Gown

Hire from £34

Perfect for one-time use:

• Includes gown, hood, and optional cap.
• Delivered at least two days before your ceremony.
• Three-day hire window for flexibility.
• Easy prepaid returns.

Hiring is the simplest way to enjoy your ceremony stress-free, with guaranteed accuracy and early delivery.

Purchase from £90

Ideal for alumni who wish to keep their gown as a memento or for future photography.

• Full academic set - gown, hood, and optional cap.
• Professionally crafted to match Strathclyde’s official specifications.
• Designed for comfort, accuracy, and long-term use.

Each piece is carefully tailored, allowing you to blend seamlessly with your fellow graduates.

Preparing for Your Graduation in Glasgow

Getting Ready

Plan ahead to ensure everything fits perfectly. Try on your gown a few days before your ceremony and lightly steam it if needed.

Outfit Tips

Smart, neutral colours pair beautifully with the university’s blue, gold, and white academic palette. Avoid bulky collars or jackets that might interfere with the hood’s fit.

Photography Moments

Glasgow offers stunning locations for graduation photos.

• The University of Strathclyde campus: classic and convenient.
• George Square: for group photos under the city’s architecture.
• Kelvingrove Park: a lush backdrop for timeless portraits.

How Churchill Gowns Ensures Accuracy and Quality

We understand how important it is to look your best on graduation day. That’s why every Churchill Gowns product is made to precise university standards, ensuring your Strathclyde gown and hood match those worn by your peers.

Our gowns feature:

• Custom-dyed fabrics matching Strathclyde’s official colour palette.
• Soft black felt mortarboards with flexible sizing for optional caps.
• Attention to detail in trims, linings, and finishes for an authentic appearance.

Why Choose Churchill Gowns for Strathclyde Graduations

• Official-style accuracy: Gowns and hoods match university regulations.
• Affordable: Hire from £34 or purchase from £90.
• Convenient: Delivered early, with three-day hire flexibility.
• Trusted nationwide: Over 50,000 graduates served and 5★ Trustpilot ratings.

From gown hire to home delivery, we make every step easy so you can focus on enjoying your ceremony.

Conclusion

Your Strathclyde graduation gown represents more than just formality; it’s a badge of honour that marks years of commitment and achievement. Whether you hire for the day or purchase to keep, Churchill Gowns ensures your academic dress is accurate, comfortable, and true to university tradition.

🎓 Order your University of Strathclyde graduation gown today - hire or buy online at ChurchillGowns.com.

 

FAQs

Is academic dress compulsory at Strathclyde graduations?

Yes. All graduates must wear the appropriate gown and hood for their degree level.

Do I need to wear a cap?

Caps are not required at Strathclyde ceremonies, but many graduates hire one for photos.

What colours are used in Strathclyde academic dress?

Blue is the base colour, with white, gold, and fur accents varying by degree.

How long can I keep my hired gown?

Churchill Gowns allows a three-day hire period, giving you time for photos and celebrations.

Are Churchill Gowns affiliated with the University of Strathclyde?

No, but our gowns are designed to match Strathclyde’s official dress code and are appropriate for use at university ceremonies.