Dress Codes in Schools – Balancing Self-Expression and Respect

In today’s world, clothing and behaviour play an important role in shaping our personal and social image. The purpose of dress guidelines is not to restrict but to support effective daily communication. A modern, socially aware person understands the importance of adapting their appearance and behaviour to the time, environment, and occasion.

Current trends point towards less formal attire, as we all want to feel comfortable. However, it’s important to ask ourselves: What impression does my appearance create, and how does it affect my interaction with others?

Appropriate Dress in the School Environment

While expressing individuality through clothing is important, there are good reasons to maintain a certain level of discretion in schools—especially for female students.

1. Respect for the school setting– School is a place for learning and personal growth. Overly revealing clothing can distract from this primary purpose.
2. Self-image and maturity– Teenage years are a formative period for developing self-esteem. Clothing that overemphasises physical appearance can send the wrong message and may not align with values like confidence, intelligence, and integrity. We should encourage healthy self-respect that isn’t based solely on looks.
3. Unwanted attention– Inappropriate clothing can attract negative comments or unwanted attention, leading to uncomfortable situations. Teenagers are still learning how to navigate external perceptions, and guidance towards more thoughtful dressing can help.

Points to Consider in School Dress Discussions

• Tracksuits as everyday wear
• Underwear worn as outerwear (e.g., bras instead of tops)
• Shorts and mini-skirts that do not cover the buttocks
• Sportswear worn outside physical education classes
• Clothing with inappropriate messages or graphics
• Excessive makeup
• Extremely long nails
• Overuse of fragrances
• Poor personal hygiene (oily hair, dirty clothes, unpleasant odour)

The reality in Slovenian secondary schools shows that many students—male and female—wear tracksuits daily, and some girls opt for more provocative styles. Teachers often face challenges in addressing inappropriate attire, as parents may react negatively and students argue that their appearance is purely their personal choice.

School Uniforms – A Solution?

The topic of student appearance and the possibility of introducing school uniforms in Slovenia was examined in 2013 by a working group appointed by then Minister of Education Dr. Jernej Pikalo. A survey of 20,731 respondents revealed that 56% were against uniforms, while only 36% were in favour.

Personally, I don’t believe introducing uniforms into Slovenia’s school system would be an easy project. We have no tradition of school uniforms, public tenders would be complex, and every step—from designer selection to fabric choice and manufacturing—would be challenging.

In countries with a strong uniform tradition, however, they offer many benefits. They help reduce social and economic differences, ease the pressure on family budgets, enhance the school’s image, foster a sense of belonging, encourage discipline, and eliminate the endless morning outfit decisions faced by teenage girls.

Moving Forward

School dress should reflect respect for oneself and others, while promoting positive values. At the France Prešeren Grammar School in Kranj, we have discussed with students what an appropriate image for male and female students should look like. The challenges are many, but with a modern, friendly approach, we can raise the standard of dress culture in our schools.