Among the many vibrant hues seen at commencement ceremonies, one color often flies under the radar: drab, also known as beige. But don't let its subtle tone fool you—this traditional color carries significant meaning and represents one of the most influential fields of study: Business.

From MBAs to marketing, accounting, finance, and entrepreneurship majors, students in business disciplines proudly wear drab stoles to signify their academic journey through one of the world’s most practical and impactful professions.

Why Drab? The Historical Roots of Academic Color

In the academic regalia system, each color is designated to represent a specific field of study. Drab, a muted shade of beige or light brown, was assigned to business studies due to its long-standing association with commerce, practicality, and professionalism.

The color evokes the materials once used in trade and industry—like flax, wool, and burlap—paying homage to the tangible, grounded nature of the business world. Unlike the bright hues of the arts or sciences, drab symbolizes balance, logic, and structure—qualities that define successful business professionals.

Degrees Represented by Drab Stoles

If you see a graduate wearing a drab or beige stole, it likely represents a degree in:

• Business Administration (BBA or MBA)

• Marketing

• Accounting

• Finance

• Human Resources

• International Business

• Entrepreneurship

• Economics (often shared with business or social sciences, depending on institution)

These disciplines form the backbone of modern commerce and management, and the drab stole honors their academic and societal importance.

Beyond the Color: A Mark of Strategic Thinking

Business majors leave college equipped with tools in leadership, analytics, and innovation. The drab stole symbolizes more than just coursework—it honors the student’s ability to analyze, strategize, and make decisions that can shape markets and change industries.

Graduates who wear this color are entering boardrooms, launching startups, managing teams, and driving forward the engines of the economy. The understated hue represents the stability and confidence they bring into the professional world.

A Classic Color for a Timeless Career Path

At The Sash Company, we offer custom drab-colored graduation stoles that can be embroidered with your major, school crest, or personal message—allowing you to proudly showcase your business acumen while upholding academic tradition.

Honor your business degree with a stole that means business.
Browse our graduation stole collection and create something timeless.