Graduation day is one of the most memorable moments in one’s life, celebrated as a milestone of academic achievement. However, the excitement can quickly dissipate if one’s graduation gown is too small to fit comfortably. The last thing anyone wants is to feel uncomfortable or self-conscious on such an important occasion.
If you find yourself in this situation, do not panic! This article will explore several simple ways to make your graduation gown bigger so you can confidently walk across the stage and receive your diploma. With a few tricks, you can easily adjust the size of your gown to fit your body shape, making it a memorable and comfortable experience for you and your loved ones.
Why You Might Need a Bigger Graduation Gown
Graduating from college or university is a proud moment for every student, but one of the challenges that new graduates face is finding a graduation gown that fits properly. Some may find that their gown is too small, either due to ordering the wrong size or because it has shrunk in the wash. Others may simply have grown in size since their initial measurements were taken. Whatever the reason, it can be frustrating to have a gown that doesn’t fit properly on such an important day.
Not having a graduation gown that fits correctly can spoil the graduation experience. A gown that is too small can cause discomfort, restrict movement, and look unflattering in photographs. Moreover, having a properly fitting gown is essential to maintain the tradition and dignity of the graduation ceremony. Thus, if you find yourself in this situation, you may ask, how can I make my graduation gown bigger? Fortunately, there are several ways to do so, which we will explore below.
Understanding the Sizing of Graduation Gowns
Understanding the sizing of graduation gowns is essential in making adjustments to your gown’s size. Graduation gowns are typically sized based on your height and body circumference. The height measurement should be taken while wearing shoes, while the body measurement should be taken around the widest part of your chest and the fullest part of your hips. These measurements are then used to determine the correct size gown for you.
It is important to note that graduation gowns are traditionally designed to fit loosely, providing enough room for a dress shirt and tie to be worn underneath. However, if you find that your gown is too small and you need to make adjustments, it is best to consult a tailor or seamstress who has experience in altering graduation gowns. Simple adjustments such as letting out seams or adding fabric inserts can be made to increase the overall size of the gown without compromising the overall look and feel.
How to Alter Your Graduation Gown Yourself
If you want to alter your graduation gown yourself, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that you don’t ruin the gown. Start by determining what you want to change about the gown. Do you need to add more fabric to make it bigger, or do you need to take it in? Once you’ve figured out what needs to be done, you can start making the alterations.
Before you start cutting into the gown, consider taking it to a professional seamstress first. They can advise you on the best way to make the alterations, and they can help you avoid making any mistakes that could ruin the gown. However, if you’re confident in your abilities, you can alter the gown yourself by following tutorials online or using a sewing pattern. Keep in mind that altering a graduation gown is a time-consuming process and requires patience, so make sure you give yourself enough time to complete the alterations successfully.
Hiring a Professional to Alter Your Gown
If you are not confident in your sewing skills or do not have enough time to alter your graduation gown yourself, you may want to consider hiring a professional to do it for you. A professional tailor or seamstress can take accurate measurements of your body to ensure the gown fits perfectly. They may also have experience working with graduation gowns, making them better equipped to handle any particular changes you may need.
When hiring a professional to alter your graduation gown, be sure to do your research and find someone who has experience with formalwear alterations. Check reviews and ask for recommendations from friends or classmates who have had similar alterations done. It is also important to budget for the cost of professional alterations, as they can be more expensive than doing it yourself. However, by hiring a professional, you can guarantee that your gown will fit comfortably and look great on your big day.
Options for Ordering a Customized Graduation Gown
If none of the previous methods of making your graduation gown bigger seem viable, then ordering a customized gown is the way to go. Several online stores specialize in creating custom graduation gowns to fit individual students’ needs. These specialized stores will ask you to provide your measurements, including your height, weight, and chest size, to ensure that the gown fits you perfectly. Once you provide them with these measurements, they will create a gown that fits you comfortably and looks great.
Another option for ordering a customized gown is to contact your school’s supplier directly. Many school suppliers offer the option of ordering a customized gown to fit individual needs. These gowns will be of the same quality as those provided to other students, but they will be modified to suit your measurements. It is essential to keep in mind that ordering a customized gown from your school’s supplier may come at a higher cost than purchasing a standard-sized gown. However, the extra cost is justified given that the customized gown will fit you comfortably and make your graduation day that much more memorable.
Tips for Maintaining Your Graduation Gown’s Size
Once you have managed to successfully make your graduation gown bigger, it is important to maintain its size. Here are some tips that can help you with that. Firstly, avoid washing your gown too often to prevent shrinkage. Graduation gowns are usually only worn once, so you can simply air it out and brush it to keep it clean. If you do need to wash your gown, follow the care instructions carefully and use a gentle, cold cycle.
Secondly, avoid storing your gown in places that are prone to moisture or pests. These include basements, attics and closets that are not well-ventilated. Instead, store your gown in a cool, dry and dark place, such as a closet that is located away from direct sunlight. You can also wrap your gown in a garment bag to protect it from dust and insects. By following these tips, you can ensure that your graduation gown will maintain its size and look great for years to come.
Final Thoughts on Getting the Right Fit for Your Graduation Gown
In conclusion, getting the right fit for your graduation gown is an important aspect of your big day. It can help improve your confidence and make you feel comfortable throughout the ceremony. So, it’s crucial to ensure that you have the correct measurements before ordering your gown.
Remember to refer to your school’s size chart for guidance, and if you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to seek assistance from a tailor or a friend for accurate measurements. With the right measurements, alterations, and accessories, you can make your graduation gown fit perfectly, allowing you to fully enjoy your special occasion. Congratulations on your achievement, and may your graduation be a memorable experience!
Final Verdict
Adding extra material and making alterations to your graduation gown can transform it into a comfortable and flattering garment that you will be proud to wear. Whether you choose to expand the torso, the sleeves, or the length of your gown, you can easily make these adjustments by following the simple steps outlined in this article. With a few basic tools and some sewing skills, you can customize your graduation gown to your preferred size and style.
Graduating from college with a degree is a significant achievement that deserves recognition and celebration. By taking the time to ensure your gown fits correctly, you can fully enjoy this momentous occasion and feel confident as you walk across the stage to receive your diploma. With these easy-to-follow tips, you can create a graduation gown that not only honors your academic accomplishments but also makes you feel comfortable and confident on your special day.