Groves classification system

The Groves Classification is a numbering system to enable the shape of any academic gown or hood to be easily described and identified.

It was devised by Nicholas Groves to establish a common terminology for hoods and gowns to remedy the situation of individual universities using differing terms to describe the same item.

The system was first described in the Burgon Society's annual in 2001 and adopted as standard by robe makers and scholars of academic dress.

[1] The original Groves Classification included a standardization for shapes and patterns of hoods and gowns worn by graduates and undergraduates.

[2] In 2012, David Boven devised a system of classification to include unique doctoral robes in the United States of America.