9.11 Graduation Tassel Guide: History, Symbolism, and How to Wear It Like a Pro

Graduation tassels are more than just decorative accessories—they carry deep tradition, symbolism, and personal meaning. Whether you’re a student, educator, or someone helping a graduate prepare for their big day, understanding the proper placement, history, and significance of a graduation tassel ensures you honor the occasion with pride and accuracy. This guide covers everything from traditional customs to modern personalization options, helping you make an informed choice that reflects both academic achievement and individual style.

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The Deep Roots of the Graduation Tassel: A Historical Journey

The graduation tassel traces its origins back to 18th-century Europe, where universities used them to distinguish students by academic level. Early tassels were simple and functional, often attached to caps to indicate whether a student was an undergraduate, graduate, or doctoral candidate.

Over time, tassels evolved beyond mere identification. By the 19th century, they became a universal symbol of academic accomplishment, adopted by institutions worldwide. Today, they remain a cornerstone of graduation ceremonies, blending tradition with personal expression.

The tassel’s placement—right or left side—has also shifted meaning. Historically, it was worn on the left side during classes as a sign of student status. However, during commencement, the tradition flipped: graduates wear it on the right side to symbolize their transition from student to professional.

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Which Side of the Cap Should the Tassel Go? The Right vs. Left Debate

The most common question about graduation tassels revolves around side placement. While tradition dictates the right side, modern graduates often choose based on personal or symbolic reasons.

Traditional Placement: The Right Side The right side is the standard and most widely recognized placement for graduation tassels. This convention stems from: – Symbolic transition: Moving the tassel from left to right represents the shift from student life to professional or academic leadership. – Cultural uniformity: Most universities and graduation ceremonies follow this rule to maintain consistency. – Photographic clarity: A right-side tassel ensures the graduate’s face is visible in photos without obstruction.

Alternative Placement: The Left Side Some graduates opt for the left side for unique reasons: – Personal expression: A left-side tassel can signify individuality or a departure from tradition. – Symbolic meaning: Linked to the left brain’s analytical functions, some associate it with logical or structured thinking. – Photographic preference: If the graduate prefers their tassel to frame their face differently, the left side may offer a distinct look.

Personal Preference: When Tradition Meets Individuality Ultimately, there is no strict rule—only tradition. If a graduate feels strongly about a left-side tassel, many schools and families respect the choice. The key is ensuring the placement aligns with the graduate’s personal style and comfort.

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How to Wear a Graduation Tassel: Step-by-Step Guide

Properly attaching a tassel ensures a polished, professional look. Follow these steps for a secure and elegant fit:

1. Choose the Right Cap Select a cap that matches your degree color or personal preference. Common academic colors include: – Gold (Law, Engineering) – Crimson (Business) – Emerald (Education) – Black (Medicine, Dentistry)

2. Position the Tassel Correctly – Place the tassel on the front of the cap, just above the brim. – Ensure it is centered for symmetry. – The tassel should hang straight down at first, then be angled slightly backward after the ceremony.

3. Secure the Tassel with a Ribbon – Use a silk or satin ribbon (matching the cap color if possible). – Tie a small bow at the back of the cap, ensuring the ribbon is tight but not too tight. – The ends of the ribbon should hang loosely down the back, not interfere with the tassel’s movement.

4. Final Adjustments – Check for loose threads or fraying. – Ensure the tassel swings freely when moved. – If wearing a gown or stole, verify the tassel doesn’t get caught.

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Types of Graduation Tassels: Choosing the Perfect One

Not all tassels are created equal. The right choice depends on style, symbolism, and personalization. Here are the most popular types:

1. Traditional Tassels – Material: Silk, satin, or velvet. – Design: Simple, classic, and timeless. – Best for: Graduates who prefer elegance and simplicity. – Example: A black satin tassel with a gold ribbon for a formal look.

2. Color-Coded Tassels – Meaning: Often tied to academic disciplines or university traditions. – Blue: Law, Psychology – Red: Business, Engineering – Green: Education, Environmental Studies – Best for: Graduates who want to honor their field or university colors. – Example: A law graduate wearing a deep blue tassel to match their degree.

3. Personalized Tassels – Customization options: – Embroidered names or initials. – Unique patterns (e.g., school mascots, family crests). – Matching ribbons for a cohesive look. – Best for: Graduates who want a one-of-a-kind keepsake. – Example: A gold tassel with « J.A. Smith 2024 » embroidered in silver thread.

4. Themed or Seasonal Tassels – Trendy options: – Pastel tassels for spring/summer graduations. – Metallic finishes (silver, rose gold) for a modern touch. – Themed designs (e.g., sports team colors, hobby-related). – Best for: Graduates who want to stand out or match a specific theme.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid When Wearing a Graduation Tassel

Even small errors can detract from the ceremony’s elegance. Here’s how to avoid common pitfalls:

• Tassel too high or low: Should be just above the brim, not dangling too far down. – Ribbon too tight: Causes discomfort and restricts movement. – Uneven placement: Always center the tassel for balance. – Ignoring cap fit: A cap that’s too small or large will make the tassel look misaligned. – Overlooking personalization: If customizing, ensure the design is clear and legible from a distance.

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People Also Ask

Why do graduation tassels swing? The swinging tassel symbolizes freedom and new beginnings. Historically, it represented the graduate’s transition from structured learning to independent life. During ceremonies, the tassel is often swung from right to left (or vice versa) as a traditional gesture of completion.

Can I wear a tassel without a cap? Yes, but it’s not traditional. Some graduates wear tassels as a brooch or pin on their gown or attire. However, the full ceremonial look includes both the cap and tassel.

What does it mean if a tassel is on the left during the ceremony? If a graduate keeps the tassel on the left side during the ceremony, it can symbolize: – A personal preference for left-side placement. – A deliberate contrast to traditional norms. – Photographic or aesthetic reasons (e.g., better framing in photos).

Most schools do not enforce a strict rule, so it’s a matter of individual expression.

How do I clean a graduation tassel? Tassels should be treated with care to maintain their appearance: – Silk/satin: Gently brush with a soft-bristle brush or use a dry-cleaning service. – Velvet: Use a suede brush to remove dust. – Embroidered details: Spot-clean with a damp cloth (avoid soaking). – Ribbons: Hand-wash in cool water with mild soap, then air-dry.

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Key Takeaways: Making Your Graduation Tassel Count

• Tradition dictates the right side, but personal preference matters most. – Choose a tassel that reflects your degree, style, or personality. – Secure it properly with a ribbon for a polished look. – Avoid common mistakes like uneven placement or tight ribbons. – Personalization adds meaning—whether through color, embroidery, or theme. – The tassel’s swing symbolizes freedom—embrace the moment it moves!

A graduation tassel is more than an accessory; it’s a symbol of hard work, pride, and new opportunities. By understanding its history, symbolism, and proper use, you ensure this small but meaningful detail enhances the emotional and visual impact of the big day.

— Final Thought: Whether you follow tradition or make it uniquely yours, the tassel will forever represent the journey you’ve completed—and the exciting path ahead.