What Is the Difference Between a Stole and a Hood for Graduation?

Graduation is a big moment. It's a time to celebrate hard work, dedication, and all the memories you've made along the way. As you prepare for your big day, you might hear about graduation outfits like caps, gowns, tassels, and something called a graduation sash. But then you also hear about graduation stoles and graduation hoods, and you start to wonder - what’s the difference?

Let’s break it down in a simple way, so you can fee l confident when choosing what to wear.

What Is a Graduation Stole?

A graduation stole is a long, narrow piece of cloth that goes over your shoulders. It usually hangs down in front and is worn on top of your graduation gown. It’s most often used by high school and college students and is perfect for showing off your personal story or achievements.

Graduation stoles can be decorated with flags, club names, majors, Greek letters, school colors, or even your country’s emblem. They are a way to make your outfit feel special and unique. It’s all about adding something that reflects you.

For example, at Create A Stole, you can customize your graduation stole exactly how you want it. You get to choose the colors, design, and message so it feels personal to your journey.

What Is a Graduation Hood?

A graduation hood is a little different. It’s mainly used in college or university graduations, especially by students getting master’s or doctoral degrees. The hood is worn around the neck and drapes down the back. It’s thicker, heavier, and fancier than a graduation stole.

The hood shows your school colors and your degree type. For example, students in science or arts might have different colored linings inside the hood. So instead of just showing achievements like a graduation stole, a graduation hood also shows your level of education and your academic field.

While hoods are more formal, they are usually given by the school and can’t be customized as much. They follow academic dress rules that have been around for a very long time.

Key Differences Between a Graduation Stole and a Graduation Hood

Let’s make it super clear:

Feature	Graduation Stole	Graduation Stole
Who Wears It	High school, college, some clubs	Master’s and doctoral students
Where It's Worn	Around shoulders, in front	Around neck, down the back
What It Shows	Personal story, clubs, honors	Degree level and field of study
Design Style	Customizable, colorful	Formal, based on tradition
Comfort	Light and easy to wear	Heavier and more structured

 

So if you're in high school or getting your bachelor’s degree, a graduation stole is what you'll likely wear. If you’re getting a master’s or PhD, then you’ll probably be given a hood by your school.

Can You Wear Both?

Yes, some students wear both, but it depends on your school’s dress code. You can wear a graduation stole to show something personal and a hood to show your academic level. It’s always best to check with your school first.

If allowed, wearing both adds a meaningful touch to your look. The graduation stole shows who you are. The hood shows what you’ve earned.

Making It Personal with Create A Stole

With a graduation stole, you get the freedom to show your personality and your journey. And that’s where Create A Stole shines. They make it easy to design a stole that tells your story.

You can choose symbols, texts, flags, or anything that means something to you. Maybe you want to represent your culture. Maybe your club. Maybe your faith or a special message to your family. Whatever matters to you, you can show it with a custom graduation stole.

Your graduation stole is more than cloth. It’s your voice.

In Conclusion: Stole vs. Hood - What Fits You Best

To sum it up, a graduation sash or graduation stole is great for adding a personal, fun, and meaningful touch to your outfit. A graduation hood is more about tradition and education level. One is personal, the other is formal. Both are important in their own way.

If you want your graduation outfit to tell your story, then a graduation stole is a perfect choice. And with Create A Stole, you can make one that feels just right for you.

Ready to create something meaningful? Design your custom graduation stole today at Create A Stole and make your graduation day even more special.

If you're getting ready to walk the stage, don't miss the chance to make your outfit one-of-a-kind. Create your own graduation stole with Create A Stole and let your story shine loud and proud!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I wear a graduation stole even if my school doesn't require it?

Yes, you can! Many students wear graduation stoles even if their school doesn’t require it. A stole is about you and your personal journey. Just be sure to check with your school’s rules first. Some schools may have dress codes, but most allow graduation stoles for personal expression.

How is a graduation sash different from a graduation stole?

A sash and a graduation stole are actually very similar. In many cases, people use the words to mean the same thing. But sometimes, a sash can refer to a longer, more decorative cloth. Still, both are worn the same way and both can be customized to reflect your background, honors, or activities.

Are graduation hoods uncomfortable to wear?

Not really, but they can feel heavier than a graduation stole. Hoods are lined and shaped to stay in place, which means they can feel snug around the neck. Most students adjust to the feeling after a few minutes. If you’re wearing one for the first time, try practicing ahead of the ceremony.

Can I design my graduation stole even if I’m in middle school or high school?

Absolutely! Many high school and even some middle school graduates love wearing custom graduation stoles. It’s a fun way to show your hobbies, your culture, your faith, or what makes you proud. With Create A Stole, even younger students can design something special for their big day.

How do I care for my graduation stole after graduation?

Keep it in a clean, dry place. You can frame it, hang it, or save it as a keepsake. Some people even turn their graduation stoles into pillows or memory quilts. It’s a great way to remember a huge moment in life. Just don’t wash it in a machine, and handle it with care.