White Dress Attire:
A Spelman College Tradition
The wearing of white dresses for formal College ceremonies dates back to 1900. This tradition was
established during a time when white was the most available and affordable among fabrics. The white
dress was worn with hosiery made of cotton until the invention of nylons in the 1940s, which came in
two colors -- beige and tan. This led to the wearing of flesh or neutral-toned hosiery. Having one pair
of black, closed-toe shoes that could be worn for multiple purposes was a part of the clothing
requirements for Spelman students. This recommendation was made in an effort to avoid
overwhelming students and their families with the cost of having to provide more than one pair of
shoes.
In the spirit of this tradition,
and the significance of each occasion, first-year students are asked to
wear the white attire during New Student Orientation. The specific events include Convocation,
History & Traditions, and the Induction Ceremony. In addition, first-year students will also participate
in the Founders Day program in the white dress attire. Seniors are asked to wear white attire at
Founders Day, Class Day, Baccalaureate, and Commencement. The dress or skirt suite should be
solid white, and worn with the neutral-toned hosiery and black, closed-toe dress shoes. When
selecting the style of dress or suit, a comfortable fit, with sleeves or a jacket are is recommended.
Students are also permitted to wear pearl post earrings and a single strand pearl necklace.
Graduating Senior Attire for Founders Day, Class Day, Baccalaureate and Commencement
Founders Day, Class Day, Baccalaureate and Commencement are all formal ceremonies where
Seniors are required to wear academic regalia. A white dress or skirt suit is worn under the regalia,
with neutral-toned hose and black shoes.
White Attire Guidelines
•
Solid, white dress or skirt suit
•
White sweater or jacket if dress/blouse/shirt is sleeveless
•
Neutral-toned hosiery
•
Closed-toe, black shoes
•
Pearl post or stud earrings and single strand pearl necklace may be worn
Carry any personal items in a small wallet, clutch purse or small shoulder bag.
Questions
Questions should be directed to the Academic Dean, Dr. Geneva Baxter, at
.
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