Doc Martens at the graduation ceremony

One thing which struck me at the graduation ceremony in University College Galway, (or NUI Galway), today was the style of clothing worn by the young graduands.

So many young women wore Doc Martens and it struck me that it showed a great deal of confidence, a streak of individuality, and a reluctance to be shoehorned into what is considered proper dress on such occasions.

And it was refreshing for this very reason.

Not to mention the practicality and reduction in probability of toppling over from implausibly, unfamiliar heels.

It takes a fair amount of chutzpah to buck the trend and wear black boots to a relatively formal academic occasion such as the awarding of degrees.

Hats off to them, and good luck for the future. Independent thinking will serve them in good stead.