Dress codes in schools are outdated. And, there is an imbalance with race, class, and gender. In addition, many say dress code violations unfairly target girls. They shame girls about how clothes fit their bodies or force girls to purchase clothing that is no longer in style. In doing this, they make students to go to the office and miss valuable class time. These codes need updated to be relevant with current fashions.
Schools’ dress requirements that are old take the focus off of learning. They focus on students’ clothing by pointing out what is inappropriate. However, written dress codes do not point out that they focus on the attire of girls. They say that girls attire distract boys. However, this philosophy stereotypes boys’ thinking. But, girls must understand they are not responsible for the actions of boys.
Schools that stress the way student’s dress sexualize girls’ bodies at a young age. They directly teach girls not to show their bodies. Also, they teach girls that that their bodies are a distraction.
Dress Codes’ Focus
Over 50 percent of schools have a strict dress code policy. And, some have mandatory uniforms to avoid distractions. Or, on the other end of the spectrum, they are as vague and state ‘clothing will be modest.’ Many outdated codes focus restrictions on skirt and short lengths, exposing midriffs and shoulders, or clothes fitting too tightly. In addition, they focus on clothes that contain racist, hateful remarks, or obscene language.
However, standards in dress are necessary for a number of reasons. First of all, they are for safety reasons and prevention from classroom distractions. They are set to eliminate social conflicts. And, in high school, they prepare students for the working world.
Schools are not trying to be the fashion police. Most school encourage students to be independent and express themselves. So, dress codes shouldn’t prohibit specific styles of clothing or the way they fit. Also, dress regulations must be gender neutral. Therefore, schools must keep the focus on learning and not on dress.
