Freshers, don’t panic: Here’s some advice on the Matriculation dress-code

Packing for uni is a universal critical moment for students; knowing beforehand what to bring might ease some nerves. Thinking of all the events you’ll have during fresher’s might short-circuit one’s brain, but thankfully there are some tips that can help you go through this without crashing out.

Why Matriculation Matters

Probably the first big event you will have to dress up for is Matriculation. If you are going to Durham, chances are you know what’s all the fuss about and why you will want to dress up for it. According to Durham University’s website, it is “a memorable rite of passage that marks the formal entry into university life.” Given that in 10 years you will probably look back to the pictures you take this day, you might as well try to wear an outfit you won’t cringe about in the future. But, before going into the actual tips about Durham matriculation dress code, just know that all of this is pretty subjective and that you should wear what you feel most comfortable with; this moment is for you, don’t forget that with everything happening throughout that day.

I could go on and on about what to expect on the day of Matriculation, and how every college does it differently, but I know you guys are probably just looking for tips on what to wear, so I’ll spare you the hassle. Just know that it is a formal event, so do with that what you want.

1. Gowned or Not?

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By now you already know which college you will be put into, and that means knowing if you are gowned or not. This will make a pretty big difference because, if you are gowned, the stress of standing out will be nonexistent. Your robes will cover most of your outfit, which means that your time will probably go to deciding which shoes you will wear. If this is your case, congrats! You just saved yourself about three crashouts.

2. Colours & Style Basics

Believe it or not, there is a great variety of outfit choices for Matriculation. The only thing you need to know is that as long as you wear dark clothes, you are among the 95% of students who attend that ceremony. Of course, by saying this I don’t want to discourage you from wearing other neutral colours, I’ve seen beautiful cream coloured outfits that fit perfectly with the occasion. I’m just letting you know what to expect that day.

3. Dresses & Skirts

Dresses and skirts are both safe, timeless choices for Matriculation. The general rule? Long or midi length, and preferably dark colours. That ‘s about it. Any fabric works, I’ve seen satin (a favourite among Durham students), plain cotton, even some jean black dresses. But maybe don’t tempt your luck and show up in a full latex dress… Might turn a few heads.

If you opt for a skirt, pair it with a blouse or shirt and add a jumper, blazer, or leather jacket depending on the vibe you’re going for. They can be more comfortable than a dress, but it can give you the feeling of wearing something more formal than just some pants. I would recommend wearing some tights too, not only for style, but because the cathedral can get quite cold and you’ll be sitting for a while.

4. Pants & Suits

Dress pants will probably be the most common piece you will see throughout the day. There’s nothing much to add apart from please, have them ironed and make sure they are the correct length to avoid damaging them if you are planning on wearing them on other occasions. You can wear them with a blazer if you want to wear a suit, or with a nice shirt/blouse. If you are not wearing a blazer, I would personally recommend wearing a jumper on top (I promise it gets cold in the cathedral) or at least another layer on top. Also, if you are going for a suit look with a dress shirt, add a tie – it is a formal event after all.

5. Shoes

This might be the category with the most freedom, because you can wear anything considered formal. My only warning is that you will have to walk from your college to the cathedral during a time of the year where it can rain quite a lot, and Durham has cobblestone roads around the city centre. This translates to: “please wear comfortable shoes that won’t make you fall on a special day”. Other than that, maybe avoid wearing Crocs or flip-flops, just in case. But as long as you wear dark shoes, you should be fine.

6. Layering Up

Matriculation this year takes place during September 30th and October 1st, which means that it is going to be a bit chilly. Long coats are a classic for these types of events, but I know they can seem a little bit outdated. Not many wear them, but they can add to the outfit. I must confess I wore one and I loved it, but it is a piece that either you love, or you hate.

Thankfully, there are many other alternatives; some wear leather jackets, others wear blazers with dresses too, you could also add a cardigan,… You won’t run out of options to keep yourself warm and stylish.

Even though I just went on a rant on what to wear to Matriculation, I must clarify that this is just my personal advice based on what I saw when I went through it, that everyone is free to wear what they want, and that this day is for you. I am very much aware that during the first weeks of uni everyone wants to fit in, but please don’t let yourself change for others.