Do Students Wear Robes at Sewanee?
For those not familiar with Sewanee, the University of the South (located in Sewanee, Tennessee) is a picturesque liberal arts university known for its stunning architecture and rich traditions. One of its most unique customs is the wearing of gowns, a practice that has become an integral part of the Sewanee experience. So, do students wear robes at Sewanee? In short, yes, they do! But that’s only the beginning of the story. Buckle up for a fascinating journey through history, tradition, and a sprinkle of humor!
A Brief Historical Overview
Let’s rewind to the 1870s, a time when bell-bottom jeans and TikTok were nowhere near the fashion scene. In 1871, Sewanee first authorized its students to don these fashionable garments known as gowns. By 1873, in a move that can only be described as “the most stylish decision ever”, the Order of the Gown (OG) was established. Guess who was behind this fashionable revolution? None other than the university’s very own Chaplain William Porcher DuBose! DuBose saw the significance of uniformity among students, and what better way to create a sense of community than through an iconic robe, right?
What is the Order of the Gown?
The Order of the Gown isn’t just a name plucked out of a hat, my friends—it’s a distinguished assembly of individuals devoted to embodying the values of Sewanee, all while looking stylish. Traditionally, the gown is worn during various formal occasions including Convocation and Commencement ceremonies, which help add a touch of ceremony and elevated dignity to the festivities. After all, who wouldn’t want to strut their stuff in a flowing robe that would make the Hogwarts crew jealous?
The Gown: More than Just a Piece of Clothing
Now, you may be pondering, “Why robes? Isn’t it just another layer of cloth?” Well, hold onto your hats because these gowns represent so much more than that. They symbolize unity, tradition, and pride, and wearing them gives students a sense of belonging to Sewanee’s rich tapestry of history. It’s akin to joining a secret society (minus the odd handshakes) where the uniform of choice is a very snazzy robe.
- Community Spirit: When students wear their gowns, they’re not just adhering to campus dress codes—they’re participating in a centuries-old custom that connects generations of Sewanee graduates.
- Academic Achievement: The gown also signifies the hard work of all those late-night study sessions and cramming for finals—each student walking across the stage represents triumph and dedication.
The Different Types of Gowns
Now that we’re hyped about the majestic nature of the gowns worn at Sewanee, let’s delve into the different types of gowns students may wear. Spoiler alert: these aren’t your run-of-the-mill hospital gowns!
- Academic Gowns: Typically black and flowing, these are worn during formal academic ceremonies. They provide that air of authority and seriousness needed for events like commencement. Walking in one of these babies commands respect (and maybe a little jealousy). Want to be the star of the show at your next event? Wear an academic gown, and you’ll be the belle of the ball!
- Formal Robes for Special Events: During special gatherings, like alumni events or special lectures, students may sport more adorned robes. Imagine an upgraded gown with stylish detailing that says, “I meant to dress up for this! Can you tell?”
- Traditional Sewanee Gowns: Throughout the academic year, you’ll see students wearing Sewanee’s gowns around campus, showcasing their pride akin to backyard BBQ enthusiasts flaunting their favorite team’s gear.
Everyday Gown Wear: A Fashion Statement!
To the untrained eye, wearing a robe every day may seem an unusual choice of fashion. But to Sewanee students, wearing their gowns casually around campus has transformed into a delightful habit—it’s as common as finding half-empty coffee cups in the library.
Imagine strolling through the picturesque campus, the sun shining overhead; students glide by in their gowns, moving gracefully like they’re ready to audition for a role in an epic fantasy movie. This prevalent practice contributes to an inclusive atmosphere where students bond over shared experiences, all while feeling like they’re part of something larger than themselves.
How Students Feel About Wearing Gowns
Every Sewanee student has their own opinion on the gown. Some cherish the tradition and proudly embrace it, while others might occasionally grumble about the oddity of wearing a robe over their clothes (seriously, how many times do they have to walk around the campus without tripping on the hem?). Yet, overall, students seem to appreciate the symbolism the gowns provide, and who can blame them? Wearing a gown can boost confidence levels to new heights! It’s the ultimate wardrobe hack that screams, “I am a scholar, and I mean business!”
Modern Interpretations of Tradition
While the practice of wearing gowns has been a long-standing tradition, Sewanee students often put their personal spin on this age-old custom. You might spot some students adding their creative flair, accessorizing their gowns with trendy shoes or even quirky pins that represent their identities. You know, just in case anyone doubts their commitment to the robe lifestyle! Making a lasting impression is the Sewanee motto—gowns included!
Embracing the Fun—Haunted Gowns!
In Sewanee, as in any college, humor is as important as coffee during finals week. A quirky tradition is rumored to have stemmed from the longstanding use of gowns: the Haunted Gown. A favorite among students, locals claim sightings of ghostly figures gliding through the Main Quadrangle at night, creating an excellent cocktail party story. “Oh yes, I saw a ghost in a gown!” Who wouldn’t want to add that to their college experience?
Why Gowns Matter to Incoming Students
For incoming freshmen and new students, the tradition of wearing gowns presents an opportunity to feel included right from day one. You see, it’s more than just clothing; it fosters camaraderie among students—suddenly, everyone wearing the same outfit makes them a part of the same family. Who needs icebreakers when a stylish gown can do the trick?
Many students express that wearing gowns during orientation and formal events spurs conversations, enabling them to bond with fellow classmates who also feel the magical weight of the gown on their shoulders. This shared experience may just be the secret ingredient to forming friendships that last long after graduation.
Conclusion: A Robe-Wearing Legacy
So, there you have it! The answer to the question: Do students wear robes at Sewanee? Absolutely! The gowns worn by students and faculty are not merely fabric draped over shoulders; they represent deep-rooted traditions, a sense of belonging, academic achievement, and a generous sprinkle of humor. As Sewanee continues to thrive, so does the iconic gown custom, serving as a strong reminder of the community spirit that sets the university apart from others.
Now, if someone asks you about Sewanee in the future, you can confidently reply, “Why yes, they do wear robes, and the stories you’ll gather while wandering in those gowns are worth every second!” So go ahead, slip into your gown—whether it’s for a class, ceremony, or just your casual stroll around campus—and revel in the spirit and legacy of Sewanee!