The Graduation Cap

A hat in 3 parts

• The rigid part, which is the top of the hat that appears as a flattened square shape
• The soft part, which essentially forms the cap
• The tassel, which changes sides once the student graduates

The Mortarboard Codes

The graduation cap is subject to a particular tradition and is worn in a certain way. It is fixed on the head and worn slightly tilted under the weight of the tassel. Before the graduation ceremony, the tassel is placed on the right side, and it's only once graduated that students move it to the left side. Then comes the famous cap toss: once promoted, all students throw their caps in the air in unison.

Particularly rooted in American tradition, the graduation ceremony is becoming increasingly common in France. In some prestigious schools, this rite of passage has been adopted as it is considered particularly moving and valuable for young students.

The famous graduate's cap, here the Business School cap model.

What is the origin of the graduation cap?

While graduation ceremonies have greatly popularized this type of official hat, called mortarboard in Anglo-Saxon countries, it actually originated in Europe. The etymology of the word "mortarboard" is based on the prefix "mortar" which comes from the French word "mortier". This name refers to the square shape of the headwear that resembled the mortar board used in the past.

Worn by Italian clergy under the name biretta, this headwear became popular in the 13th century in France and Italy, where it was proudly displayed in the first European universities such as the Sorbonne, Stanford, or Harvard. A strong symbol of knowledge and learning that has continued to accompany students across the Atlantic ever since. Increasingly used in recent years, graduation caps have now become one of the emblematic hat shapes and represent an essential accessory to celebrate and mark the end of higher education during rewarding ceremonies.

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Trust Chapellerie Traclet for a perfect graduation cap

As specialists in hat-making, our team is at your service to answer all your questions or simply guide you to the graduation cap that will enhance the end of your studies. More than an accessory, this headwear elegantly symbolizes a special period of your life and the success of your exams. Chapellerie Traclet allows you to enjoy a wide selection of mortarboards for a cap that resembles you and perfectly embodies your academic journey.

Moreover, our website ensures you numerous advantages with a secure online payment platform, as well as fast delivery for each of your orders. You can also discover a varied catalog of quality hats for all your occasions. Don't hesitate and find the perfect accessory with Chapellerie Traclet!