For many students, they begin their school day at the bell, while others spend their mornings tirelessly choosing an outfit, something perfectly curated to represent themselves. Just because one puts effort or detail into their outfit doesn’t mean that it’s acceptable for the school day, especially under administration’s dress code. There is a frequent debate between students, teachers and administrators on how all should dress in a school setting.

Each morning can look different for each person, whether you have all the time in the world or are in a time crunch. Sadie Hill ’27 takes it day by day, depending on mood or comfortability.

“On an average day, I will wear anything from jeans and a nice top or sweater to leggings and a sweatshirt,” Hill said. “I believe it’s important to be able to wear what we want, anything that will help us feel confident and ready to learn for a long day of school.”

There can be broad views of the dress code, and while some will try to bend them, others respect them more strictly. Math teacher Katie Barbour believes that outfits should follow rules, especially as we are in a learning environment.

“You should be wearing clothes that cover your entire torso, and to your mid thigh,” Barbour said. “This can change a bit depending on the season, especially when it’s hot. I understand that we need to be comfortable, but making sure you’re still covered is important.”

It is common nowadays to see many students wearing a similar style of clothing. This has included many matching sets (consisting of hoodies and sweat pants) along with leggings. Reid Lenglet ’28 will wear what many others will, but also likes expressing his personal style.

“I like wearing hoodies and sweatpants like lots of other people, but I also like wearing jeans and a t-shirt from time to time,” Lenglet said. “I understand that people like to dress how they want, but I think it comes to a point when they start showing up to school in things like actual pajama pants.”

These issues don’t just involve the students though, as this is the teachers’ workplace also. Every day they are here, doing their job and getting paid, which Hill believes sets them to a bit of a higher standard.

“I think the teachers should have a bit of a stricter dress code,” Hill said. “Their outfits should reflect some sort of professionalism. It should be a representation of South’s values along with something that students can look up to as they grow up.”
The disagreement among the school’s attire has been ongoing. Both sides have their claims, yet many can agree that the way you feel can be just as important as how you look.

“I think you should just dress in what makes you feel comfortable, but it is nice when one dresses up.” Barbour said.