what do the different colors mean on the university of texas graduation robes
Tassels are available in different colors, depending on the type of degree conferred. Master's hoods will show colors to indicate the area of study. The color designations for tassels and/or hoods are listed below. Black Tassels--Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Fine Arts, all Master's degrees.
When cadets wore college issue cotton khaki, it was a junior privilege to purchase tailor made serge uniforms which were easier to maintain and required less ironing. From Wikipedia