Academic apparel is something that everyone is familiar with. Virtually anybody who has completed any type of educational course has both seen and worn a graduation gown and has sported a cap or two, but the thing that many don’t really take into full consideration would have to be the materials used to create those caps and gowns.
A very important influence would have to be the climate. The location of the institute is another important influence since it works hand in hand with the climate. For example, the materials used in tropical places would understandably be lighter than the ones used elsewhere. This is because the American Council of Education, or the ACE, allows for the wears to be as comfortable as they can be. The ACE also acknowledges the use of materials like silk, broadcloth, rayon, and cotton poplin as appropriate.
The price ranges of the materials usually vary between highly economical and incredibly expensive. Most Master and Bachelor degree candidates are often given souvenir versions of gowns by their recognized institutions. Those gowns are intended only for a few wearings and can be quite inexpensive. There are even some doctoral graduates where commencement is going to be the only time they actually get to wear academic regalia. For most people, the solution would be to rent rather than buy.
Those that decide to buy their dresses have the option of going for much finer fabrics. These include cotton, wool, percale, cassimere and others. Certain fabrics, like pure ottoman silk is only used on rare occasions considering how expensive it is to use for official gowns. Then there are those that have since been abandoned, such as sheepskin, rabbit fur and ermine, which were used for the lining of hoods. Problems such as animal rights concerns and the costs have led to their widespread decline.