With hundreds of thousands of university students graduating this summer, the expense of ceremony attire is a pressing concern. According to BBC News, students are turning to second-hand purchases, family tailors, and careful rental comparisons to look their best without overspending.
Thrifting and Second-Hand Finds
Keerthana Krishnadas, a recent graduate, bought her graduation dress second hand online. "It was about 80 quid - a bargain," she told BBC News. She explained that since the outfit is worn only once, thrifting is a smart way to save. "You can save some bucks if you thrift your outfit because you're only going to wear it once," she said.
Family-Made and Tailored Outfits
Ehis Oboh, who earned a master's degree in international business, opted for a custom suit made by his younger brother, a tailor in Nigeria. "When you have the funds, there's no pressure," he said. "But if the funds are not there - let's say, there's pressure." His approach avoided rental costs while supporting family craftsmanship.
Similarly, Wendy Adu Amankwah asked her mother, a designer, to create a white suit jacket for her ceremony. "It took her a week… I'm her daughter, so she had to put in every [effort]," Wendy explained. She stressed the importance of looking one's best after earning a master's degree.
Cost Comparison of Cap and Gown Rentals
Many students choose to rent academic regalia. BBC News reported that rental prices vary by institution and degree level. The table below shows costs at two Manchester-area universities:
| University | Degree Level | Rental Cost |
|---|---|---|
| University of Salford | Undergraduate/Postgraduate | £42 |
| University of Salford | PhD | £45 |
| University of Manchester | Undergraduate/Postgraduate | £43 |
| University of Manchester | PhD | £57 |
Financial Pressure on Students
Tom Allingham of budgeting advice site Save The Student noted that graduation costs can total hundreds of pounds when including transport, accommodation, clothing, and photographs. He highlighted the particular burden on first-generation university students. "For those who are the first person in their family to go to uni, it's a big deal for the family and there's a pressure to celebrate it - even though those students often come from a lower income background," Allingham said.
He added that graduation occurs at a time when students are "the least financially resilient", as they have recently been absorbing the costs of their studies.
Social Media Sharing
Students have taken to social media to share tips, vent frustrations, and break down the costs of their outfits. The trend reflects a broader desire to mark the milestone affordably while still looking polished. From thrifting and family tailors to comparing rental prices, the strategies show that a budget-conscious approach need not compromise style.
Sources:
