For those navigating the esteemed halls of the University of Oxford, understanding the dress code known as “sub fusc” is essential. Often referred to as the Oxford Uniform, sub fusc is the traditional formal attire required for various important occasions, from examinations to degree ceremonies. This guide will clarify what constitutes sub fusc, ensuring you are appropriately dressed for every significant event at Oxford.
Sub fusc is not merely a dress code; it’s a tradition steeped in history, reflecting the University’s long-standing heritage. While the term itself might sound archaic, understanding and adhering to these regulations is a key part of the Oxford experience. This article will break down the components of sub fusc, making it easy to understand and comply with the requirements.
Decoding the Sub Fusc Dress Code: Essential Components
The Oxford uniform, or sub fusc, is composed of specific items, offering a degree of personal preference within a structured framework. Here’s a detailed look at each element:
Clothing Essentials
At its core, sub fusc requires dark, plain clothing. Specifically, you must choose one option from the following:
- Dark Suit with Black Socks: A classic and formal option. The suit must be dark, essentially black or a very dark charcoal grey or navy. Pinstripes or patterns are not permitted, maintaining a plain and respectful appearance.
- Dark Skirt with Black Tights or Stockings: An equally formal option. The skirt should be dark and plain, adhering to the same color restrictions as the suit. Black tights or stockings are mandatory and must completely cover the ankle.
- Dark Trousers with Black Socks or Black Hosiery: Another suitable choice. Similar to the skirt and suit, trousers must be dark and plain. Black socks or black hosiery are required, ensuring no skin is visible below the trouser leg.
Students in sub fusc gowns
Important Note on Legwear: A critical aspect of sub fusc is ensuring no part of your legs, ankles, or feet are uncovered. Socks, tights, or stockings are compulsory and must fully cover the ankle. There should be no gap between your chosen legwear and the hem of your skirt or trousers.
Jackets, Shirts, and Ties
Beyond the foundational clothing, sub fusc includes these additional layers:
- Dark Jacket (Optional, worn under the gown): If desired, a dark jacket, matching the darkness of the suit or trousers/skirt, can be worn underneath your academic gown.
- Plain Black Shoes with Dark Soles: Footwear should be plain black shoes with dark soles. Avoid any embellishments or brightly colored soles.
- Plain White Collared Shirt or Blouse with Sleeves: A plain white collared shirt or blouse with sleeves is essential. The shirt or blouse must be white and without patterns or colored details.
- Neckwear Options (Choose One): You have a choice of neckwear to complete your sub fusc:
- White Bow Tie
- Black Bow Tie
- Black Full-Length Tie
- Black Ribbon
Academic Gowns and Headwear: Completing the Oxford Uniform
The Oxford uniform is not complete without the appropriate academic gown and headwear.
- Academic Gown (Appropriate to your Student Status): The correct gown depends on your level of study. Oxford University has different gowns for Commoners (undergraduates), Scholars, and Advanced Students (postgraduates). Understanding which gown to wear is crucial. Further details on academic gowns are provided below.
- Mortar Board or Soft Cap: Headwear is also required. You can choose between a mortar board (the traditional square cap) or a soft cap. Mortar boards are generally worn outdoors and should be removed upon entering buildings, while soft caps can be worn both indoors and outdoors.
Academic Gowns Explained: Commoner, Scholar, and Advanced Student Gowns
The academic gown is a significant part of the Oxford uniform, and different gowns signify different stages of academic achievement.
Commoners Gown
- Who wears it: Undergraduates or students pursuing undergraduate master’s degrees (BA, BFA, BTh, MPhys, etc.).
- Description: A black gown made of cotton or synthetic material featuring a turned-over collar. It lacks sleeves but has streamers on each side with square pleating, hanging to the gown’s full length, which reaches the hip.
Scholars Gown
- Who wears it: Undergraduates or students in undergraduate master’s degrees who are scholarship recipients and/or have excelled in preliminary examinations. Your college can provide specific guidance on eligibility.
- Description: A black gown crafted from Russell cord or synthetic material in a full style, featuring a gathered stiffened yoke at the back and short, open sleeves. This gown should reach the wearer’s knees.
Advanced Students Gown (Graduate Gown)
- Who wears it: Postgraduate students undertaking taught or research degrees (MSc, MPhil, DPhil, etc.).
- Description: A black gown of cotton or synthetic material, similar in style to the Commoners’ gown but longer, reaching to the wearer’s knees.
Students in sub fusc gowns
Wearing Oxford Uniform for Examinations and Degree Ceremonies
Sub fusc is mandatory for examinations and degree ceremonies.
Examinations
For all examinations, you must wear full sub fusc, including your academic gown and mortar board or soft cap.
- Undergraduate Examinations: For music recitals, oral examinations, presentations, and viva voce examinations, the commoners’ gown is always required for undergraduates.
While headwear and gowns may be removed during the examination itself, tradition also includes wearing carnations for examinations, although this is not compulsory:
- First examination: White carnation
- Intermediate examinations: Pink carnation
- Final examination: Red carnation
Degree Ceremonies
Full academic dress, meaning Oxford uniform (sub fusc) with the correct gown and hood, is essential for degree ceremonies. Inappropriate dress may lead to refusal of admission and graduation in absentia. The specific gown and hood requirements can vary depending on the degree being conferred, and your college will provide detailed guidance.
Special Considerations and Dispensation
Oxford University recognizes that some students may need adjustments to the sub fusc regulations due to religious or health reasons.
- Religious Dress: Ministers of religion may wear clerical dress with a gown over it. For religious headscarves, a black scarf should be worn.
- Armed Forces: Members of the British Armed Forces may wear service dress under their gown instead of sub fusc.
- Dispensation: Students unable to wear traditional sub fusc due to religious or health reasons are encouraged to contact their college in advance to request dispensation from the regulations. Requests should be directed to the Proctors.
Understanding and adhering to the Oxford uniform, or sub fusc, is a vital part of participating in the academic traditions of Oxford University. By following this guide, you can ensure you are correctly attired for all formal occasions, upholding the esteemed traditions of this historic institution. For further clarification or to purchase your Oxford uniform, consult your college or visit onlineuniforms.net.
