Those distinct individuals who have worked hard to earn the title of Judge deserve the best judicial robes ones that are durable, honorable, and attractive looking. Having judges wear the long black robes in the United States is a tradition that has mixed origins, but one thing is for certain: the tradition stems from another tradition that of wearing black to signify mourning and death. However, in France, Canada, and in the United Kingdom, red is commonly worn as tradition.
The specific origins of using black judicial robes are clouded because of many different stories that have circulated about the first time that they were used. Today, everyone recognizes the black attire as a symbol of justice and fairness in a court of law. Although there are many other professions and occasions that call for the use of wearing similar attire, none are as recognizable and distinct as the judicial robes are. Even the black gowns that are worn for scholastic graduation ceremonies are different. Through the years around the world, there have been many variations to the gowns, including additions of fur and collars, cuffs, trinkets, buttons, stoles, and many others. However, in the United States, for the most part the only custom addition to the black attire is a white collar that is worn by female judges sometimes.
In 1714, in England the color that was to be worn for the funeral of Queen Anne was decreed by the king to be black; it is thought that ever since then the color has remained. There have been different robes for summer and winter, and different colors according to judges preferences up until that point. Even earlier, in 1694, when Queen Mary II passed away, black had been the official court mourning attire, so it is thought by some that this was the beginning of using black robes for court use. In time, the black became representative less of death and mourning and more for respect for the monarchy.
There are many websites that are popular places to purchase black judicial robes, or those of any color for that matter. More often than not, these websites also have for sale graduation gowns, tassels, and other similar accessories. There are often size guides and guidelines that are set forth that officials are required to follow, such as the gown should hang a certain number of inches from the floor or not be shorter than 3 inches above the ankle. Make sure that you are aware of the guidelines before you place any orders. Also, youll need to be sure that you are familiar with the rules about any additions to robes, whether that be the addition of chevrons or ribbons around the sleeves, white under collars under the robes, and others.
The prices differ quite a bit for this kind of attire, and youll want to be sure that you are getting a good deal for a good quality product. Many people opt to order more than one gown at a time, and fortunately many companies offer shipping discounts when a minimum order for judicial robes is placed.