The school uniform has a rich (and surprisingly controversial) history that spans the globe and goes back farther than you might think.
The Origin Of School Uniforms
The academic uniform dates back to the clerics of the Middle Ages who gathered at universities adorned in the fashion of the time: tunics and hooded cloaks.
The first documented standard of academic dress was the closed-robe cappa clausa from 1222 in England. The Archbishop of Canterbury, Stephen Langton, wanted to create uniformity with the Catholic Church at large. This was also the first recorded case of uniformed academics bucking the rules.
But it wasn’t until 1552 that London’s Christ’s Hospital School instituted a more modern look: a long blue frock coat and yellow, knee-high socks. A look that’s still in use there today and one that would inspire the evolution of the school uniform.
The school uniform was born, but so what?
The Impact of School Uniforms
School uniforms are supposed to create harmony and equality through uniformity. More school pride, a foundation of discipline, less peer pressure and victimization around clothing.
Proponents feel that school uniforms also increase student achievement, student commitment, and enhance the learning environment itself. All for one and one for all! A conscious decision to focus on learning and a sense of belonging.
Opponents feel that they stifle individuality and free speech, create a financial burden, and have no actual effect on social dynamics. A band-aid on the real issues of bullying, inequality, and educational standards.
The jury is still out on the science for either side, but lawsuits, rebellious students, and shifting social norms ensure that it remains an incendiary topic.
The World Of School Uniforms
The school uniform has its place all across the world, but every country has a distinctly different style that reflects its values, people, and fashion sense.
Check out Vogue’s collection or Insider’s collection or BrightSide’s collection of school uniforms around the world to get a good idea of how they differ.
What’s your favorite? Some fashion highlights:
- The pink robes of Myanmar.
- The bright yellow blouse and chic hat of Sierra Leone.
- The graffiti custom of Indonesia.
- The practical plaid wraps of Bhutan.
- The urbane outfits of Japan.
- The crisp white dresses of Sri Lanka.
The Future Of School Uniforms
Although they may seem like an ancient tradition by now, school uniforms are actually on the rise.
In the United States, where school uniforms face the most backlash, more public school kids are required to wear uniforms than a decade ago. From 13.8% of public schools in 2006 up to 21.5% in 2016.
That 500-year-old uniform from Christ’s Hospital School in London and the other school uniforms around the globe aren’t likely to go away any time soon either.
But there’s evidence out there that school uniforms can be pretty fashionable! Maybe it’s not whether we should have them or not, but whether they could use a little fashion makeover instead.
