It Is Time to Amend the Dress Code

“Boys will be boys.” “Cover up.” “You’re distracting.” These are common phrases girls hear to this day, but why are girls subject to this? Why aren’t boys told to keep their hands and derogatory comments to themselves?

Boys aren’t held to the same standard of respecting those around them whether those people are wearing a business suit or a bikini. It is time for that to change.

Instead of schools restricting girls from dressing the way they want because they are “distracting,” the obvious issues with this must be addressed. What about a shoulder is distracting? Who is looking at our midriff? Why should women be worried about what they wear?

I’m sure most can agree that the ELHS school dress code is confusing and outdated. The dress code is more broad than people may think, but some teachers enforce archaic rules more than others. The student handbook states:

“Attire that is inappropriately revealing, oversized, or immodestly undersized is prohibited… Attire that promotes violence, racism, harassment, discrimination, or bigotry will not be allowed in school or at school functions…”

What does that mean? What exactly is It Is Time to Amend the Dress Code “inappropriately revealing, oversized, or immodestly undersized?” The problem lies with the subjective nature.

Undersized is self-explanatory, but why is it such a big deal to not wear oversized clothing? I myself love an oversized hoodie or jacket for comfort. It’s difficult to find clothes that fit that niche or “goldie-locks” category of not too small but not too large, especially for girls. That’s where the dress code really targets girls and their bodies.

As a freshman, I was so excited to get new clothes I felt good in; I still am. One of those items is a gorgeous dress. It brushes my knees and is long sleeved, but it was tight and low on my chest due to my chest size. Before first period, I was asked if I had “something to cover up.” As I was digging through my bag, another student passed by in tiny shorts and a small shirt and wasn’t even acknowledged.

I was angry. I felt like since my body is larger than some, I have to think harder about what I wear.

Why should students’ creativity and expression be suffocated because of their differing body types? The dress code is vague and unrealistic. There are far more pressing matters to address than if you can see my shoulder blade.

As time progresses, the dress code needs to follow. It needs to allow students to be free with self expression.