Fashion is a part of everyday life, and each student has their own unique perspective. Some students use it as a form of self-expression, while others dress solely for comfort. You will see everything from pajamas and hoodies all the way to jeans, skirts and, now and then, the occasional dress. What people wear often depends on the season, current trends and personal preference.
“I usually wear comfortable clothes, like sweatshirts and sweatpants, because I don’t want to dress up for school,” said junior McCall Hardy (11). This is the common attitude for many students: comfort first. Sweatshirts, hoodies and baggy pants are often seen throughout the winter months.
Throughout the school year, there are not many instances when the majority of students choose to dress up. There are mainly two occasions: the first day of school and picture day. On the first day, there is usually a desire to impress people by acquiring something new or simply putting in a little more effort. Picture day is an exception because everyone wants to look great in their yearbook picture. After those days are gone, the overall dress code in the halls quickly switches back to casual.
Not everyone follows the casual trend, however. Some students enjoy dressing up every day and incorporating fashion into their daily lives. “I always dress up even for school because I always want to look my best,” said Olivia Lowry (10). For these students, clothes are a way to showcase their personality and individuality by mixing different styles and accessories to create an original look.
Another student’s take on the topic is that of Victoria Leanos (11), who says, “I usually dress up because that’s my everyday style.”
The school dress code also plays a role in determining what students wear. Many schools have added restrictions over the years, creating an increasingly divided opinion about this matter. Some feel it stifles creativity and self-expression, while others think these rules help maintain professionalism within the learning environment. Either way, the enforcement of a dress code will continue to define what is considered acceptable at school.
The big trends also play a significant role in school fashion. Through TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest, new styles spread fast. One month, everyone could be wearing cargos with oversized hoodies; the next, parachute pants with vintage sneakers. Many students use social media for inspiration, combining trending pieces with their own personal touches.
Other standard parts of school fashion include spirit wear. Students often wear shirts or hoodies with school logos on them, especially on game days or during pep rallies. It’s a simple way to show school pride while remaining comfortable. Spirit wear also gives students an easy option when they don’t feel like putting together an outfit.
Overall, school fashion continues to change every year. Some students focus on comfort, while others prioritize style, and many strive to strike a balance between the two. What students wear can reveal a great deal about how they want to present themselves, even if they are not aware of it. Whether it’s sweatpants, a hoodie or a carefully planned outfit, everyone contributes to the mix of styles that make up school life today.