An Overview of Hoods
Most of today’s hoods are modelled on the following basic shapes:
The Cambridge or Oxford shape
These evolved from the medieval shape in Oxford or Cambridge and were then modified further.
The London Shape
The Cambridge shape of the 19th century had rounded corners to the cape. This is today known as the London shape.
The Edinburgh Shape
So named because it was brought into use when Edinburgh University was founded in 1582 – it is actually based on the Oxford simple shape of the time.
The Burgon Simple Shape
One of the simple shapes used by Oxford University is named after a reforming 19th century Fellow of Oriel College. The Burgon Society today promotes an interest in, and study of, academic dress. For more details, you can visit their web site at www.burgon.org.uk.
