how to wear a sash for graduation

3 min read 15-01-2025

Meta Description: Make your graduation ceremony extra special! Learn how to correctly wear a graduation sash, from placement and positioning to choosing the right side and avoiding common mistakes. This comprehensive guide ensures you look and feel your best on graduation day.

Choosing Your Side: Left or Right?

The most common question graduates ask is: which side does the graduation sash go on? The answer is generally left. This is because most people place other ceremonial items, like cords or medals, on their right. Placing your sash on the left helps everything be balanced and visible.

Exceptions to the Rule

There might be specific instructions from your school or organization regarding sash placement. Always check with your school's graduation guidelines or the organization providing the sash. Some organizations might have specific instructions based on their traditions.

Putting on Your Graduation Sash: A Step-by-Step Guide

Once you know which side to wear it on, placing your sash is simple:

Drape: Hold the sash behind you and drape it across your shoulders, making sure the longer part hangs down at the front and the shorter part at the back.
Adjust: Carefully adjust the sash around your shoulders to find the best comfort. It shouldn't be too tight or too loose. Adjust the ends evenly for a symmetrical look.
Tie/Fasten: Depending on the sash, it may have a tie, a clip, or another closure mechanism. Follow the instructions provided with your sash or simply tie the ends neatly in a small bow at your waist.

Making Your Sash Look its Best

Here are a few helpful tips to ensure you look your best in your graduation sash:

Iron it: A wrinkled sash can look sloppy. Iron your sash before the ceremony to ensure it looks crisp and neat.
Check for stains: Inspect the sash for any stains or marks before putting it on.
Avoid bunching: Make sure the fabric of the sash lies smoothly and doesn't bunch up anywhere.
Coordinate with your outfit: Choose a sash that complements your gown, but remember, it's the graduation ceremony that is the center of attention, not the sash.

Common Sash Placement Mistakes to Avoid

Wearing it too high or too low: Your sash should sit comfortably at your waist, not too high or too low. Experiment with placement and get a friend's opinion before the ceremony.
Twisting or bunching the fabric: It should hang neatly and smoothly. Smooth it out so you look polished.
Ignoring school-specific guidelines: Always double-check any school regulations on sash placement or wearing.

Beyond the Basics: Multiple Sashes & Other Regalia

If you have multiple sashes, or you're wearing other regalia (like honor cords), there is an established order:

School-provided regalia: These typically go on first. This includes honor cords, stoles, and any official recognition items.
Organization-specific sashes: These come next, based on importance or whichever organization you feel deserves the most prominent display.
Other sashes: Finally, add any other sashes, typically placing the most important one nearest to the body.

It can be helpful to get a friend to help arrange everything properly before the ceremony.

Graduation Photography Tips with Your Sash

Ensure your sash is visible and looking its best in your photos.

Pose consciously: Pay attention to how your sash is placed. It may be best shown in certain poses.
Consider the background: Make sure the background doesn't clash or obscure your sash.
Ask a friend to help: Have a friend check if your sash is hanging correctly and looks presentable during photos.

Remember, your graduation is a momentous occasion. While the correct sash placement is important, it is the accomplishment that matters most! Enjoy your day, and wear your success with pride.