Abstract: A surgical gown having a central and side portions (hereinafter referred to as panels) and outer belt means. The belt means comprises two tie strings or the like, one of said ties being attached to the central panel of the gown near one of the two side panels. The other tie is attached to the second of the side panels near the outer edge thereof. The free end of each tie is releasably grasped by a transfer device which holds the ties in a position overlying the outer surface of the central panel. During the gowning procedure, the transfer device becomes the means whereby a sterile assistant may effect final closure of the gown without becoming contaminated or whereby a non-sterile assistant may effect final closure of the gown without endangering or destroying the sterile character of the gown. Preferably the gown also comprises inner closure means for further securing the gown in the waist area.