The original student nursing uniform was a dress made of heavy blue cotton with a mandarin collar. In 1978, the original 3/4-length sleeves were replaced with short sleeves, and while the dress still reached several inches below the knee for women, a uniform for males also became available.
1978
1983
The original uniform and remodeled short sleeve version were light blue and white in color. The blue and white colors honored the Blessed Mother, while the seven white pearl buttons represented the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit and the twelve pleats on the bodice symbolized the twelve Apostles. There was a patch on the sleeve below the shoulder that carried the traditional University Seal and symbols of the Order of St. Augustine, identifying the student as a Villanovan.
1998
In 1998, a new uniform was implemented for the Class of 2001. Students in clinical practica now wear a navy and white striped blouse or shirt with the Villanova logo and either a navy skirt or slacks. A major feature of the new uniform is that it is functional for in-patient, community and ambulatory settings.
The cap is no longer worn, except by choice. It has a small point that symbolizes the miter of St. Augustine, the Bishop of Hippo, and three points that symbolize the Trinity. Opened, the cap is round to represent the Host (Eucharist), and when folded, it forms a "V" in the back for Villanova, accentuated by dark blue trim (school colors).
