Straight From the Bottle

I wore a uniform from kindergarten through 8th grade. I loved it. No getting up early to pick out clothes, no worrying about what anybody else thinks about your clothes. If there would have been a private high school within a reasonable distance, I would have begged my parents to send me there just for the uniforms.

I went to a school with a VERY strict dress code. So strict that some says I didn't know if my outfit fit the crazy demands of collared shirts, no tees, skirts below the knees, no crop tops, minimal make up, and no jeans of any kind. We all would have rather had uniforms. I would have taken the immense pressure off of trying to look cool, while not being thrown into weekend detention for violating the dress code.

I went to Catholic school, and the whole school system switched to uniforms my freshman year of high school, so I had it both ways: no uniforms in elementary and junior high, and then polos and plaid 9-12 (although we had a strict dress code pre-uniform, with below-the-knee skirts and collared shirts with no logos, etc).  I have to say, I loved wearing uniforms.  LOVED.  So easy in the morning, so nice to stop comparing myself to everyone else.  No more worrying about the fact that my mom could never have afforded the $150 pair of jeans.  We all wore the same stuff, and I could still choose my shoes and jewelry and how I wore my hair and what color I painted my nails and there was also some ill-advised shimmery eyeshadow in there.  It will be fine, I promise.

I wore a uniform pretty much till I went to college. Personally I hated it. Now I see a lot of advantages in it (mostly for parents), but it definitely did not help with uniting us due to different incomes. It was still very obvious who was better off - shoes, pencils, backpacks, hair clips, hair styles, vacations... (but that's just life, right?) But in a long run it will save you money and enforce better behavior from kids. So I guess at the moment I am pro-uniform :-)

All the schools down here in Long Beach are the same way. My son is still too young for school, so I'm totally speculating, but it seems like elementary school kids don't really give uniforms too much thought one way or the other. And I've noticed the high schoolers have found little ways to add their own personal touches to their uniforms, so maybe it's possible that uniforms challenge kids to be even more creative with the bland polo-and-khaki-canvas they have to work with. Could be a good thing? At least it will probably make life easier for Archer (and you) when it comes to getting dressed in the morning.

I LOVE uniforms.  I wish the school my kids go to would embrace them...and I voted for them at the school district we moved away from and I was pleased with the results there.  I was (reasonably) happy with my experience at a uniform-enforced private school.

I don't think uniforms at school are necessarily stifling;  I think of it like getting dressed in nice clothes to sit down and work at the computer at home, rather than working in pajamas and bare feet...you're taking a direct action that distinguishes work from play.

I understand self-expression is important, but school just isn't necessarily the place for self-expression through dress.  It's a wonderful place for learning and practicing self-expression through art, play, interaction, music, writing, etc., just not necessarily through dress.  Lots of places aren't good for self-expression through dress, including many workplaces as a young person grows up, but that doesn't mean that people aren't expressing themselves.

I think, too, some parents and older children take for granted that they have the privilege to "express themselves" through dress how they want.  A child who isn't living in poverty can express himself however he or she wants to without uniforms...he or she can make a statement with clothes like "I'm artistic!" or "I'm a fan of ____" or "I paid way too much for this shirt because of the brand name on the front; please, please like me".  But a child living in poverty is pretty well stuck with "Hi. These are the clothes I could afford, or that someone in my family or church or neighborhood outgrew".  Uniforms are a huge boon to poor parents.  HUGE.  Wal-Mart and Target and K-Mart sell the uniforms...we outfitted my twins with uniforms (khakis and solid polos) for under $100 in the fall and again under $100 in January when they shot up suddenly.  The uniforms were really unisex, too, so they work well in the hand-me-down department for families with boys and girls, and they're easy to find in thrift shops, too.

Also, here's how you can tell I've got a teenage girl living with me...no trying on six different outfits in the morning on school days (and dumping the rejects on the floor to be trampled and stuck back in the hamper unworn), no laying out one outfit before bed and then "not feeling it" in the morning.  No upset that so-and-so showed up with the exact same outfit only hers wasn't a knock-off.  No vetoing outfits that push the envelope.  

Loved my uniform growing up. Would love (now that I am blessed with a child) if I had a uniform for work now! I could have cared less in grade school still "rocked" my doc martins with my navy blue uniform pants. In high school I really like my uniform. No effort in the morning and Every weekend you could show off a new outfit!  

Good points, all. Thank you for sharing your perspective.

I think you'd have hated a uniform because you never had one - Archer will grow up thinking its just what happens when you go to school (like I did at my uniformed school in Britain).

It's nice how it keeps special clothes special. I'm still a fable at heart (dresses, sunglasses and a hat) and uniforms never got that out of me.

xxx

I attended all public schools growing up and none of them were uniform enforced.  I probably wouldn't have cared so much in elementary school but once I got into middle/high school I expressed myself a lot through my clothing.  I mean I was more excited to finally be able to wear flip flops (born, raised, still living in hot as hell Florida) once I got into 9th grade than anything else about high school. It was also cool to see how others dressed. I liked that everyone had their own style going.  Everyone was an individual.

My husband taught in a public school that had uniforms required in every school in the district. It was a huge district, the 17th largest in the country, with 26 high schools alone, located just outside Washington D.C. They required uniforms less as an equalizer among students (the poor kids were wearing basically the same things as the rich kids by the time) and more as a safety feature. It was really easy to pick out someone in the school who didn't belong there because they weren't in uniform. I realize that an out-of-place adult would stand out more in an elementary school than in a high school, even without a uniform, but to be honest, I don't see the harm. My son, who's Archer's age, isn't going to a uniform-manditory school (we've since moved back to Michigan) but I guess I probably wouldn't mind if he were. I think a lot of kids like them, and even a lot of the ones who don't can see the value.

I grew up in a very diverse area and was in between. Not rich not poor. I would of loved uniforms. Then I could of ditched the struggleamd the thinking that if I just owned_______ then I'll fit in. Benetton Esprit they were not cheap. I just *might*of had a few different friends. Hmmm.

I wore uniforms from middle school on. I hated it. (No capris!! In Miami!!!), but I can see why some love it.  Believe me though, kids find a way to distinguish themselves, even in an ocean of blue and khaki. Just think of the wide world of accessories open to them now.

I went to a Catholic school for 8 years and thus wore traditional uniforms every day: plaid jumpers, blue blouses with peter pan collars, knee high socks. We complained as kids about it, and were jealous of the public school kids who didn't have to wear them.

But when I went to public school in high school, I missed the uniforms, if only because when you get dressed in the morning, a uniform means you don't have to think about what you're going to wear. It just made that part of the day simpler. It really did take off an unnecessary layer of anxiety about what was cool and what wasn't.

I also missed most of the 90's in terms of fashion, and I think that since I was in elementary school and thus totally awkward, that was probably for the best. At least awkward in a uniform still looks adorable.

For my 10-year-old niece, wearing a uniform to school has shaved 20 minutes off her routine in the morning, which means 20 more minutes to sleep or 20 more minutes to finish a homework project.

I'm one who went to Catholic School K-8 and public school for high school. I loved my uniform for the most part. I did get to sleep later than my public school friends. My only issue was that I REFUSED to wear navy shorts/bottoms and white tops/polos until I was a senior in college (too much for 9 years). The other great thing was OUT OF UNIFORM DAYS... for 50 cents or a dollar we got to wear what we wanted for one whole day. It was glorious.

Loved uniforms.  I went to Catholic school (that, I did not love) and it was so easy and so...uniform.  I got judged for a lot of things, but clothes wasn't one of them.  I would give anything for a uniform now at my job...

loved uniforms - wore one from 5th-12th grade. we were given some options though, like choosing b/t white/grey/navy shirt, plaid or navy skirt, our own sneakers, etc, which felt like a big deal at the time.

I went to a private high school where we had a very strict dress code. I wish we had a uniform. It just would have made life a lot easier.

I had uniforms from 1st grade through 8th and loved them. We graduated from jumpers to plaid skirts when we hit middle school, and it was SUCH a big deal. We still expressed our individuality through the king of shoes, watches, bracelets, socks, head bands, necklaces, etc. that we wore. I actually miss the simplicity of a uniform. It made things so much easier, and there was way less pressure to buy $300 dollar "it" jeans (which is what happened once I hit high school).

I know in theory when I was a kid I would have hated the idea of uniforms because I did not come from a family that emphasized conformity.  (My dad's side is Jewish, and that may have had something to do with it.  People not seeming to question authority understandably makes some groups nervou.)  Anyway, I was a fashion outcast, and making my own clothing choices in an era of designer jeans when my family didn't buy those was not fun.  I think in practice uniforms might have been a relief.

In terms of your children's creativity, I remember Jerry Seifeld saying once that it was having boundaries that forced you to think outside them.  By not being able to use certain words he had to be more clever about language and ideas and the result was much more effective.  Your kids will find other ways to express themselves that will surely make you more proud than the shirts they picked out to wear.

My kids don't wear uniforms, but I think life would be easier for all of us if we did.

True story, as a kindergartner we had to draw pictures of what we wanted to look like at 16, and I drew myself with glasses, braces, and a uniform. I swear to you, that was the epitome of cool to me at 6. I never did make it to a place with a uniform, but I did get glasses in the 4th grade and braces in the 7th, and realized very quickly that I was the only person within a 400 mile radius who thought glasses or braces were cool.

I wore a uniform from K-4th, then again in 8th & 9th grade. Everyone is different, but I never minded wearing uniforms. I didn't really feel like what I wore defined me as a person. It was easy to roll out of bed, throw on a uniform and go to school. When I didn't wear a uniform, I got made fun of for the type of (hand me down) clothes I would wear. It bothered me to be made fun of, but I also remember thinking that I didn't want to be friends with kids that were mean to me for such a stupid reason.  

I read your tweet about this aloud to my husband this morning and he immediately went like, yeah, minivans and uniforms, that must be hard for her, cause they're such obvious symbols of conformity. And I get it. (No obsession with the Atlantic though, sorry).

But other than that, I love uniforms. I've done all my schooling in them (except for two years in middle school I think), and they were great. There's obviously the convenience of them, but they also brought something else to the school -hard to explain, it's a little about the "evening out" classes like you said, and a little about the sentiment of belonging and even pride they can create. Yes within the school you're all dressed the same, but outside the school you identify yourself as part of it to everyone, which can be great (if it's a great school).

And self-expression was definitely there: we were very creative at finding ways to still differentiate ourselves, through our hairstyles, shoes, bags and other accessories, even the way we rolled up our plaid skirts at the waist just so it would be a little higher and cuter (not that high though), or wore bright camis under our button-down shirts. Just like Archer with his purple shoes, you can test and stretch the rules in many ways! And that was *maybe* even more fun than being able to dress however we liked. Believe me, when you had style, it still really shined through.

I'm still a few years from school, but I really hope we can send our kids to one with a uniform. It's my husband I think that'll need some convincing (his background and point of view is very similar to yours).

Here's the thing: The reason people like you (and I) shy away from uniforms is because we didn't wear them.

Archer will not know a life of clothing options on school days, but he probably won't be any worse for wear. In fact, I can say without a doubt that my elementary school days would have been much less tormented if we had all worn uniforms.

Plus, I'm pretty sure they do have twin days and free dress days, which will make it so much more special when he gets to show off his individual style.

No uniforms for me in high school, but I wish I HAD been required to wear one.   Instead, we had a super-strict dress code, which was way more of a pain than uniforms ever could have been. Plus, as a relatively low-income student at a ridiculously rich private school (think a parking lot full of Beemers and Porches.  For 16 year olds who are just going to crash them anyway!), I think it would have been easier for me if we all had to wear uniforms -- the economic gap would not have jumped out quite so obviously in what we were wearing.  

For Archer, I agree with what a couple other people have said -- this is just going to be normal: you go to school and this is what you wear.  As long as you don't make a big deal of it, he probably won't either.  And he'll find tons and tons of other ways to express his individuality and creativity.  

When I started reading this post, it reminded me of your posts about Archer walking.  He'll be fine - he'll figure out his own way and will be the stronger for it.

I wore a uniform from 1st-8th grades and didn't have a huge issue with it.  Archer is young and won't really know any different, so unless you make a big deal out of all the fun and self-expression you think he's missing out on, he'll likely be fine.  I was the scholarship kid at my fancy-pants private school and I have to say, it DOES level the playing field for the kids whose parents couldn't afford to dress their children in Baby Dior.  Or even Baby GAP.  (Hi, Mom!)  I don't think my creativity was stifled since we went to a school with an outstanding arts program and my stepdad is a painter so our home life was full of fun and creativity.  My mom remembers fondly how quickly I was dressed and ready to go each morning because there was no battle-of-wills (or even hesitation) on what to wear.  Plus, we had "free dress day" once a month so it wasn't like we were mini-prisoners.  

I'm going uniform shopping for my daughter this weekend...for pre-k.  PRE-K!!!  The fact that they make uniforms in such tiny sizes is crazy to me, but I am sure it is going to make the whole process much easier.  All public schools here, pre-k to 12, have uniforms so it's no big deal.  My problem is she is not a fan of pants or skirts with a plain wasteline (she was cursed with my body shape and has a round belly that is uncomfortable without elastic wastes), so she is a major fan of dresses.  Looks like I'll be loading up on jumpers and polo dresses.  

I did get her a super cute backpack and lunch bag, and hope to find some cute shoes before shcool starts.  30 days and counting!!

Methinks you were a popular girl in school.  You had the sense of style and the clothes to show off.  You were a twin on "twin day" with another popular girl.  I was not.  I wasn't bullied or abused, but I was just a dork.  To those of us in a lower "class" whether that be financially or stylistically or popularly, uniforms are a wonderful idea.  Especially since you're in an economically diverse area.  I'm heavily in favor of uniforms in public schools.  Let's eliminate at least 1 reason for kids to be cruel.

I loved wearing uniforms - so easy, so functional, one less thing to think or worry about  but I remember being so in awe of my American friends (and the American high school kids I saw on television) who did not wear uniforms - they seemed so dangerous, so crazy, so transgressive, so rock'n'roll high school. I think part of me still believes the Ramones appeared willy nilly at high schools across America.

I'm with Annabelavita: Archer and Fable will just think that school is a place where you wear a uniform. No biggie. Like Jen, watching American, or Canadian high school shows (Degrassi! Woot!) with out uniforms I thought everything looked chaotic and a bit dangerous. Since I have moved to the US from Australia (a public school with uniforms country), and become a high school teacher in public school, here's my two cents about uniforms:

* Putting on a specific set of clothes to do a specific job gets kids in the mindset of work. Just like how you wear different clothes to the office and to the clubs/beach/for coffee on the weekends, putting on a school uniform sends the message to your body and your brain that you are here to work!

* Uniforms can be a safety bonus. If all the kids are in uniforms, its easy to tell who should be in the school and who should not. Not that this would happen in elementary school, but a high school with uniforms is less likely to have unwanted interlopers (gangs? some girl's shady boyfriend?) since they just stand out so much. They'll get turfed out pretty quick. For the same reason, kids in uniform are much less likely to ditch class. They'll just stand out on the street more.

* You can save your party clothes for partying! Even though I went to a co-ed school, getting changed out of the uniform for a dance or a party on the weekend, and seeing the same boys I went to school with sans uniform, was really special.

14 year old me hates 29 year old me right now, but I'm pro-uniform.

I went to a private school that didn't have uniforms, but did have a strict dress code. even still, I felt very much restricted by it. when I switched to public school in 10th grade, I really stretched my fashion wings.

I don't know. I don't have kids yet. But I think the uniforms are less a big deal for the little ones. I wouldn't want my teen to have to wear a uniform.

I wore a uniform for 1st - 8th grade and I missed it dearly when I transferred to public school. If you're worried about self-expression, I can remember there were still plenty of ways for kids to personalize their outfits. Girls had to wear navy blue knee socks, but they could be long enough to fold over or short or have a pattern in the weave or we could wear tights. We had to wear brown shoes but they could be loafers or velcro or lace-ups or stompy Doc Martens like I wore. We also had out of uniform days, which took on an exaggerated emphasis but were also really fun to see what everyone would choose to wear.

The moral is: fear not. There will be plenty of opportunities for self-expression.

I wore them from 1 - 8th grade. HATED IT. Uniforms prevented me from expressing myself. The school was not economically diverse and my family was one of the only ones in the "lower" class. The uniforms did not help bring us together. Looking back, I hated that school and that time of my life in general and I'm not sure if wearing whatever we wanted would have helped things. Good luck!

I always wished I went to a school with uniforms. I so wanted to be a cool kid who had a great sense of style. But I was restricted by me and my Mom's non-fashion-sense and her lack of budget and I always went to school in things that just didn't stand up to what others had. Archer may have what I didn't, but think of the kids like me.. and remember why uniforms aren't such a bad idea.

I had uniforms for one year--my freshman year at Catholic school. With my plaid skirt and white button-up, I wore bowling shoes and black cat glasses. It was clear what kind of chick I was. And I knew exactly what kid of chick the other people were, uniforms or no.

I think Archer and Fable will rock their uniforms--think accessories and other forms of expression!! Shoes, jewelry, hairstyles (and colors), glasses (needed or not), etc. but I think if you don't make a huge deal out of it, the kids probably won't even know that not every kid wears a uniform to school. I wouldn't even call it a 'uniform,' I would just say 'school clothes.' Like, these are the clothes that you wear to school. Period. And you don't have to wear them at school, and you probably shouldn't. They probably have 'play' clothes and 'beach' clothes and 'dress-up' clothes, so 'school clothes' is not all that different.

Honestly, I wish I had gone to a school with uniforms. As it was, I went to a private Catholic jr. high/high school with a lot of cliques and 'branding' with certain kinds of clothing. It really would have prevented lines from being drawn. Ultimately, I switched to a public school for my 11th and 12th years, and cliques seemed less of an issue, but I still would have appreciated uniforms for the simplicity.

I went to a school that had uniforms, a catholic school at that!  We had our skirt lengths measured weekly.  But we found other ways to express our individuality- back packs, notebooks, pencil cases, hair flair, etc.  I didn't mind wearing uniforms at all!  And I grew up to be a very creative, fashion obsessed gal.  Not gonna lie though, "free dress days" were amazing.  Even though they only happened twice a year.

I didn't go to a school with uniforms but I work in Oakland where a lot of the public schools are moving in that direction. I met a girl who wears a different pair of tights every day. The day we met they were rainbow stripes. And her hair ties matched. Awesome! When my girls get to kindergarten I will push for them to find some originality, if they happen to go to a school with uniforms. I would say that there are definitely some good things about uniforms, considering they take the "competition" out of dressing up (for girls). It was easy in my day--grunge was in! Dressing up was tucking in your flannel and putting on a belt. It didn't cost much to do that.

I too went to private school with a uniform requirement. Sure I hated every second of it, never tucked in the shirt, colored my leather oxford shoes with whiteout to make patterns, scribbled in the white squares of my plaid skirt, HEMMED my plaid skirt until my mother threatened to buy me a new skirt and NOT HEM IT AT ALL. But it was easy. And you made friends the right way, not because they had the coolest clothes. The uniform fades into the background and forces kids to individualize themselves in better ways. Through their actions and personality and ideas, not through the superficial need to have the latest and greatest fad. You are such a strong believer in individuality and fairness and peace i would think you would be all for bringing in the uniform to create a more even playing field for everyone to play on and shine in different (and far better) ways!

it's cool...  he can still rock some style on the weekends.  remember that clothes are not actually important, they are just things.  i find that the most interesting people are those who are completely comfortable with themselves and not having to prove anything through fashion and the like.

I went to a public school and we didn't have uniforms but I think they would've been a great idea.  It takes away the pressure on kids whose families have less resources.  My husband works at a public school that has uniforms Mon-Thur.  He says there are way more problems on Fridays and lots of fights that start over clothes.  Gang colors, too revealing clothes, someone doesn't like someone else's shirt etc. etc. In high school I would've resented uniforms too but then again... I resented a lot of things in high school.

I went to a very exclusive private school but my family wasn't wealthy -- we had financial aid.  I would have LOVED uniforms!  In middle school, the other girls used to make fun of my clothes because they weren't the popular expensive brands, and I spent quite a few years wanting to sink into the floor and vanish.  I don't think that learning about fashion is a vital part of going to school.  You guys live in LA, and I think your kids will probably manage to absorb style through osmosis outside of school hours.    

I wore a uniform from k-12 and loved it.  It made special clothes more special and made school socially easier.  I always found that there was  little wiggle room for self expression.  Creative people find ways to be creative even within a constrains of a uniform. It might be the shoes you are wearing, how you decorate your binder, patches on your backpack or even the the novels or comics you are carrying around. In many ways I think it's a blessing to start with uniformity that way you really have to work to get your point across and become a better artist with a more focused and disciplined voice.  

My son went to a Lutheran grade school. There were no uniforms, but they were only allowed to wear shorts May 1st through the end of the school year and they had to be knee length - for both boys & girls.

I think, what you said here, Liz, is why I decided to go with the school, uniforms and all. I think you're right. At the end of the day, uniforms DO create fairness, they do. I think for me, it's getting used to the "uniformness" of uniforms... The message that it's best for "everyone to look the same" even if the sameness is completely surface.

Hal and I were talking about this last night and he like, "but all the brit-punk rockers wore uniforms" to which I responded, "which is why they all rebelled with punk rock and torn plaid!" ...  Rebellion and conformity go hand in hand, right?  Maybe it's a total pipe dream but I never want my kids to feel the need to conform nor rebel. I want them to feel limitless in terms of who they are.

We will likely send our kids to private high schools because of where we live, so uniforms will likely be the norm for them through all levels of school. I guess we'll be doing lots of shoe shopping and creative hair-styling in our house.

i spent all my school years in a uniform. and it IS true. it does make a difference in helping  with the whole 'clothes/fashion classism' and trust me when i say this. you can always, always make your uniform your own. maybe not at 5 but later on, yes. :)

The Catholic school in my hometown had uniforms, and very strict policies about jewelry, make up, etc.  And yet, I can remember clearly that my friends who attended that school were just as obsessed by self expression through fashion as we public school kids were.  Its just that for them it was about the shoes, socks, nail polish color, and various other details the dress code didn't cover. Even as a kid I was struck by how important the small things became, and how much they were noticed, when you controlled for the big things.

I don't mind the school uniforms, what bothers me is that we are putting elementary childern in dress pants.  I'm lucky if my son's pants last him more then a month.  My son's school does not allow the reinforced Dickies uniform pants.  Elementary childern should have the option to wear jeans with their Uniform Shirt.  

I only had to wear them for 2 years -- and it was very strict. The good news is that I went to a girls school with MANY rich people, but some NOT rich people, too -- and it really really seriously helped take away the obvious class differences between us, and created friendships where otherwise status would have interfered.

Dude, I am tattooed from my forehead to my toes, and loved to dress like a lunatic in my younger years.  I am ALL ABOUT the power of creative expression as manifest in attire, hair, whatever.  I married a tattooer.  We LOVE art.

All that said, I went to a school for grades 9 & 10 which had strict uniform policy and I LOVED IT.  I think it is one of the best possible things to do for children.  

Uniforms are made to wash well, a previous commenter was concerned about them being "dress pants", but they're nothing a kid wears is "dress", IMO.  (Maybe in the mind of the parent, but not in reality!)

I don't think there's much of a difference replacing jeans or replacing trousers.  I also got lots of second hand items, and for the courageous online shopper, there may be cheaper buys.

At least you have a public school worth sending your child too!  The public schools are failing here where we live, so private school is our only option, apart from homeschooling.  So, along with a 10,000, plus yearly tuition, we purchase uniforms.....

I remember loving my uniform growing up.  Most of the other kids came from way more money, and by wearing a uniform, we were all even, in class anyway.  Sleep overs were a nightmare for me.

I wish we would have had uniforms when I was in school.  My family was broke and I had to deal with teasing and bullying because I didn't have the cool clothes.

I don't think school is a fashion show.  You go to school to learn.  If wearing a uniform facilitates the learning and removes a level of BS, then I'm all for it.  I wish my daughter's school had uniforms.

I sent MM to a preschool and kindergarten with uniforms and now he's in that same place for summer camp, and yes....uniforms.

He rocks purple shoes too, Keens.

He wears his hair the way he wants. He has a terrific sense of weekend style. I actually wish that his public school would require uniforms because it's just so darned easy to get a kid dressed in the morning if they don't have to choose what to wear.

(pardon my typos, ps.)

Also, I spent a couple of weeks on an exchange trip in Japan my last year of High School. The girl I stayed with went to a school with a very strict uniform:

Sailor Dress (black in winter, grey in summer)

Short hair or hair in pigtails or braids (brown or black hair bands only)

No hair dye.

No make up.

Black shoes (shoes not sneakers).

(I don't remember what kind of socks).

For gym, they had a different uniform and white sneakers and white socks.

Also, the kids were the janitors for the school.

I grew up very poor and I always wished my school had uniforms. It's hard enough to fit in when your family is average (financially) but when your Mom pulls in about $400 big ones a month it's just about impossible to not feel like a complete freak. My clothes were always the Dollar Store version of what was trendy. Now that I have 15 years of perspective I know it really wasn't a big deal, but it certainly was at the time. In fact, when it was time to graduate, one of the main reasons I was so drawn to the military was the uniforms. Weird. I ended up joining the USAF and relishing looking like everyone else for a change. So, I guess I'm saying uniforms don't make the man! And think of the awkward kids who are so relieved to have one less thing to feel inferior about.  

I wore uniforms in middle school and I was torn on them. I wanted to express myself through what I wore but I learned how to do that in other ways, so in a way I'm kind of grateful. In high school I got to make all the fashion mistakes only a frustrated teenage girl could. Looking back I kind of wish we would have had uniforms during my "Hot Topic Stage". Oy vey...

Aside from my experience I really like that they are an equalizer in the socio-economic differences.

PLUS! You stretch out the longevity of their street clothes.  

I went to schools with uniforms from kindergarten through 12th grade, and I loved it. Now, I may not have known any better since it was what I was used to, but since I knew no different, I never had that, "Oh, it's limiting my self-expression" debate, and neither did my parents. I was a stubborn, opinionated, crazy inventor who had a way with a paintbrush whether I was in my plaid skirt or my torn jeans. It may frustrate your children (and yourself) that they can't wear what they want, but it won't affect who they are or who they will become. I know you know this, but I felt the need to say it - I've had this discussion with many friends trying to pick a school for their children.

Also, how I looked probably means less to me than others, but I see that as an OK thing. Talk to anyone I went to school with (especially the girls) and I'm fairly convinced that, across the board, we had less self-esteem issues with how we looked (face, body, etc.) than those who had a choice in wardrobe. That's a win-win all the way around.

Finally, I went to a high school that was also very diverse economically, and while there were still cliques that mostly ran along money lines, it wasn't as big an issue as it was at other high schools. I'm not going to give it the same thumbs-up your principal did as far as unification, but the bite was taken out of the tension. It was nice.

Also, think of the ease of getting ready in the morning! Think of the money you'll save in the long run! Yeah, you may get to summer and realize Archer no longer has a wardrobe because he spent the last nine months in polos, but some stress most definitely goes out the window.

We also live in a racially and economically diverse urban area and our children attend public elementary school.  Uniforms, however, are not in practice. While (I assume) the parents here know "what's what" so to speak, the kids are blissfully unaware.  Seeing my children befriend the most unlikely playmates has been a huge source of joy for me and is quite honestly why we live in the city and not the suburbs.  Perhaps your principal has made this decision because of past problems, but I think it's selling the kids short.  In my experience, classism starts with the PARENTS, not the kids, and uniforms aren't going to change that.  In the end we can opt to hide our differences or we can use them as an opportunity to promote the importance of character over appearance.  Is there any bigger life lesson to take into adulthood?  

I wore a uniform from Kindergarten all the way through High School. I could have cared less. I also went to an all girls High school in a North Shore Suburb or Chicago. When there were no boys to impress,I really didn't care then.  In Chicago where kids were, and still are, getting killed over what kind of shirt or shoes they are wearing I think Uniforms are a smart idea. Most of the public schools here are also inforcing uniforms. Although they are a bit more relaxed than the private schools. My mother always said that having her children wear uniforms was the best. We never spent more than 10 minutes getting dressed. We never had to wonder if what we were wearing was still in fashion. Saved boat loads on clothing. Archer will still have a sense of style and he'll figure out how to make the uniform stylish. We always did!

I can understand being against required uniforms, and I was never forced to wear a uniform in school, but for two summers in high school I had a job in which uniforms were required. And not just navy blue shorts and a white polo, but suspenders, a shimmery blue bow tie and matching cumber bun. This uniform required a lack of concern for potential humiliation. Once I got past the shame, I actually found it to be quite a magical experience. I worked with no less than 40 people and we were a very diverse group. Rich, poor, 'gangster,' young, old, African refugees, I mean LOTS of types. The wonderful thing about it was, you couldn't possibly judge what a person was like until you actually got to know them, and I found myself befriending people I would never have thought it possible to be compatible with. I feel like uniforms really break down a huge barrier between people and demand one to express their personality. Freedom of expression is too often married with outward appearance; I think it would be nice if it started on the inside first.

I attended an all girls school overseas and we were required to wear a uniform. We had a strict dress code on how to do hair, nail polish was not allowed. Our school had kids from very different economic backgrounds and this was a great way to level the field.

It was functional. I'm very thankful for not being stressed out about looking cool. I'm completely on Hal's side on this one.

Oh man, I wonder if anyone will actually read this comment way down at the bottom.

I went to a private school with uniforms and during that experience I would sometimes whine, and when we graduated we all burned our skirts in celebration, but then when I went to highschool most of us loooonged for uniforms because it meant NOT having to worry about being cool, having the cool shirt, being UNIQUE enough, because where I went to school it was about self expression in so many other ways. And school was about so many other things. And now here I am, a grown up and I get to wear whatever I want whenever I want and it's great! But it's also stressful to feel dressed appropriately or hip enough. Even for me at 25. Uniforms are awesome! and people are all awesomely different no matter what they're wearing.

Neither The Dad nor I had to wear uniforms, but The Dad has an unhealthy obsession with HuffPost. Does that count?

I went to school in England where uniform is mandatory in pretty much every school. It is strange not to wear uniform. I don't think it's a big deal at all. I never felt like I couldn't express myself or anything like that because of it. In the end, it's just a uniform. You change into your own clothes when you get home, you wear your own clothes at the weekend and in the holidays. In reality you spend more time out of uniform than in uniform. We had mufti days where you paid £1 which went to charity and you wore your own clothes and those days were awesome and we never would have had that if we didn't wear uniform.

I also think that schools who have stricter rules on school uniform tend to be better schools. It's like a level of respect in some ways. Plus people find ways to be individual with it. For example in my school we used to untuck our shirts at the back, I don't know many other schools that did that and it was the cool thing to do. We used to pull the threads in our ties and then we would get weird lines on them etc. I really don't think it makes much difference to your experience as an indivdual.

I love you, I'm not going to lie. I've been following your blog for just about ever but I've never said a word.

Buuuttt...

I'm a fourth grade teacher at an elementary school in Florida that has uniforms. When I was in grade school I hate-hate-hated the idea, but as a grown up... Seeing your little ducks all in a row, all nice and neat and similar, it's actually kind of nice. Not in the hindering the creative side, but I'm more than positive that your son will have many other creative outlets to express his individuality.

After being in a school with uniforms and then going to one that doesn't have them it just seems so unorganized and in disarray.

I wore uniforms from grade 6-12. I loved it. There were still ways that the more affluent kids were differentiated (e.g.,  more expensive white shirts), but it really minimized the impact that peoples' parent's willingness/ability to pay for clothes had on their day-to-day existence. We all had to wear the same kilt. We all had to wear the same colour socks, etc... I never saw it as a loss. It just removed the issue of clothing from how we thought about each other.  

There will always be ways to express yourself, regardless of the dress code. But that's creativity, a choice. In the meantime, everyone shares a baseline.

And that is aside from the practical dreamscape that is a uniform. So much easier.

I think wearing uniforms in school is a GREAT idea... and this way, the students will be forced to concentrate their individuality on other things- things that matter like art, words, music, dance, sports, friends, volunteering, books, pets, daydreaming, etc.

I volunteer at a middle school in SF, and the girls waste so much time/effort/MONEY (that their family has not enough of) on their appearance.

I went to an all-girl Catholic school from Kindergarten to 3rd year high school.  UNIFORMS.  Long plaid skirt, white blouse, necktie, white socks, black shoes.  Then we moved to Australia.  Went to a public school that had UNIFORMS!!!  Short plaid skirt, white turtle neck, sweater, tights or white socks, black shoes for the winter.  Blue striped super see-through dresses, white socks and black shoes for the summer.  I loved that I didn't have to think about what I had to wear in the morning.  I loved that I didn't have to worry if I was wearing the "right clothes".  It just didn't matter.  I wore what I wanted after school and on weekends.

I don't mind if my kids go to a school that require uniforms.  Perhaps uniforms will force you to be creative/expressive in other ways?  Is purple hair allowed? (not in the Catholic school unfortunately).

In England I don't know of any schools that don't have uniform. It's normal and let me tell you, you can still see the groups of children differntiate themselves, by their hair, accessories and the way they wear their uniform but all the lines are blurred and i think it makes for more freedom in the end, not just for themselves but socially too.

I didn't have to wear uniforms as a child, and honestly, on hindsight, would've loved it. My family was poor, so it was defintely hard to fit in and "express" myself as I wanted to. Now, as an adult, a teacher and future mom, I think uniforms serve a great purpose. There are other ways to express yourself than just what you choose to wear in the morning. From what you choose to express in your art, your classes, your projects, your activities and how you interact with others, all of these are other ways kids can express themselves. Uniforms pulls focus away from outward appearance to help emphasize what I believe as more important methods of expressing oneself. Plus, there's always the weekend when they want to dress differently.

Wow, all. Thank you. Truly. It's incredible how unanimous you all are for pro-uniform schools. I feel so much better reading your comments... Maybe Hal was right for once? (He's usually right.)

My son has been wearing uniforms since kindergarten, and is now going to second grade.   Getting ready in the morning is so easy.  There is no arguing about what he's going to wear ~ it's polos and shorts August - mid October, oxfords and sweater vests from then until April, when it switches back to shorts and polos.  He can still pick his gym sneakers, back pack, school supplies.  He really doesn't care that he can't wear "home" clothes to school.   He is able to express himself in other ways, and I would rather he stand out for his creativity and intellect, than than what he is wearing.  

I went to public school without uniforms until 8th grade.  We didn't have a lot of money and I got made fun of a lot  because of my clothes mostly from the "wealthy" kids.  I was then homeschooled for 3 years where I wore pajamas to school most of the time and whatever I wanted other times.  This was also at an age where I was buying most of my own clothes, accessories and such with babysitting money.  Then for my Junior and Senior year of school I went to a private school where uniforms were worn.  I didn't like it at first, but then I grew to love it.  I knew every morning what I was going to wear when I got up (late as usual!) and only had to think about how to do my hair that day, what crazy socks I wanted to rock that day and which shoes would best show off those crazy socks.  Needless to say, this is where my obsession with bold, bright and crazy socks began.  I'm almost 30 years old and I still love to buy new socks!

I grew up in Long Beach, and Long Beach Unified was actually the first district ro require uniforms district wide (at least for elementary schools and middle schools). They implemented it Fall of '94, which was when I started 5th grade. None of us were big fans of wearing whatever we wanted one year, and then having the switch the next. But when I went to high school, mine didn't require uniforms so I was able to switch back. At the time I was in high school only 1 of the high schools required uniforms but the others have slowly started switching over. While in general you're having to wear the same thing, there were ways to may it unique. For example I had friends at Wilson, a high school that required uniforms. Their sweatshirts were required to be Wilson sweatshirts, so they would buy white sweatshirts and fabrics, cut out the fabric to spell the school's name, and sew it on. So they still had a unique sweatshirt with the school's name.

I wore a uniform for JK to grade 3, then again from grades 9-11. It wasn't so bad in the elementary grades. I just remember being damn cold, with itchy wool tights to accompany my plaid jumper. (Blame Canada.) Those years were spent at a small private school. The kind that operated out of a church. It wasn't bad. At that age I don't think I was aware enough to express myself.

What sticks out more for me are the high school years. Public school with a uniform. Level the playing field, my ass. There were kids with $100 backpacks and $200 jackets, to say nothing of the jewelery they wore and the cars they drove. There were tons of options: 2 kilt styles, grey pants, blue shorts. Turtleneck, polo shirt, button-down. Blazer, cardigan, pull-over. Lots of choices, right? Well, that blazer cost $150. $75 for each of the kilts. It was easy enough, even as a kid, to figure that those kids with limited options were ones with less money.

It suited my brother. He couldn't dress himself to save his life. He spent ever more years wearing a uniform: jk/sk to grade 5, then for 5 yrs of high school. He's 33 now and all his jobs have required a uniform (Brinks driver, subway operator). I just don't think he ever figured out how to express himself via dress. Plain t-shirts and jeans is all I've ever seen him in.

The Mook is still a year away from school but I'll avoid at all costs enrolling her in one that requires a uniform. I'm quite skilled at getting her quality clothes at second-hand shops, but I've never seen uniform pieces there. While Walmart does sell some of the options, most uniform schools I know of have specific uniforms and suppliers. And I really prefer not to shop new, esp at Walmart.

From the age of 5 until the age of 13, I went to a uniformed private school. As a girl, I hated it, I really did, especially when I got new clothes and couldn't wear them. But, during my 8th grade year, my friends and I all agreed that the uniforms had become a good thing. We never had to worry about looking better or worse then someone else, we always knew what we were putting on the morning, and it really truly stopped a lot of low self esteem and poor body images. My brothers went there too and they never thought about the uniforms being a problem. I hope this helps. And yes, someday if I have kids if the school I chose had uniforms, I don't think I'd have a problem with it.

I like the idea of uniforms! I didn't have to wear them, but I would be happy if once my litte girl is in school she was required to wear one.  I think it would take alot of stress out of mornings...plus I like to think of it in a way that makes it appear that you have more clothes! All those outfits you're not wearing during the week: more choices for the weekends and breaks!

I went to public school and there were no uniforms until I started the 6th grade in middle school. My parents said "Damn the Man!" and got me a waiver which meant I had to literally carry around a card in my backpack, and I could wear whatever I wanted, within reason. My parents didn't ask what I wanted, which was not to stick out like a sore thumb. Being 11 and being the only one who sticks out in a crowd, for me, was very difficult. I loved my clothes, but I didn't want to be the only one in the whole school, which I was save one other girl, who wasn't clad in blue and white.

I'm totally with you - I didn't wear a uniform and liked it that way.  I loved getting dressed up for school - still do for work.  This idea that uniforms are somehow "less cruel" than regular dress is absurd.  I got teased and bullied in school, but it wasn't because of how I dress.  Kids will find ways to differentiate each other regardless of how they're dressed.  We work so hard at making everyone conform to the "norm" when I think we should be encouraging kids to embrace the fact that we're different.  I feel the same way about standardized testing and required after school activities.

I'm totally with you - I didn't wear a uniform and liked it that way.  I loved getting dressed up for school - still do for work.  This idea that uniforms are somehow "less cruel" than regular dress is absurd.  I got teased and bullied in school, but it wasn't because of how I dress.  Kids will find ways to differentiate each other regardless of how they're dressed.  We work so hard at making everyone conform to the "norm" when I think we should be encouraging kids to embrace the fact that we're different.  I feel the same way about standardized testing and required after school activities.

I'm from Ireland, and practically every school here has uniforms all the way to age 18. There are a few who allow own clothes after 16, but for most the uniform is a fixture.

And, honestly, it is a good thing. Yes the uniforms can be boring and unflattering, but you'd be surprised at how people still express their creativity and personality through everything from hair to shoes to accessories to the way they wear the uniform itself. It limits - not eliminates - teasing based on financial differences and body awareness, and I think is also cheaper for families long-term.

I was shocked when I sent my daughter (8 yrs old) to a private school and they DIDN'T have uniforms.  Matter of fact, everyone else was shocked, too.  After 6 years of that, we have moved her to a Catholic school and, of course, uniforms are part of the packaged. My daughter is not happy about it, but I am.  There will no longer be arguments about what she can or can't wear.

I am so happy about having a set uniform to wear that I wasn't too ticked when I shelled out the $300 (including shoes, that were determined by the school).  Hell, the school even determined what hair accessories she can wear. This is going to be the easiest no tears school year, yet.  Okay, maybe not, but at least one thing is off our argument list.  

I didn't wear a uniform and went to a public school.  I do remember my last year of school was when they were going to enforce uniforms and my mom even bought them for me.  I never worn them, because they were hideous.  Now, I am the mother and have 3 kids to get dressed and out the door by 715am and need just a bit of easy in my life.

We also live in So Cal and our school district requires uniforms and I find them to be great.  Our school is diverse and it helps the kids see each other for who they are and base friendships on shared interests.  In a climate like So Cal where we tend to be focussed on who is wearing what and how much it cost, I like that I can send my girl to school and she is not judged on how much her jeans cost and what brand they are but rather who she is and her gifts.  There is so much pressure (even in Kindergarten) that I am glad that the clothes are taken out of the equation in determining someone's popularity.  Plus, there are no questions about what to wear and it actually gives her lots of independence as she just goes off and gets dressed.  There are no arguments about saving her soccer uniform for games...it is just not an option.

I had to wear a uniform from kindergarten until 12th grade, and it only encouraged me to express my individuality more! I wore outrageous accesories and jewlery to stand out, feathers in my hair, a million braclets etc. Believe me Archer will figure out a way to achieve his own personal style and stand out from the crowd in dress code.

I was in Catholic schools for 4 years and wore uniforms.  Honestly, it doesn't make any difference in bridging the gap between classes and it does NOT eliminate kids cruelty over what you wear.  Some kids can't afford the sweater and you can tell who only has one shirt.  You still have shoes, socks, coats, backpacks and all accessories to set yourself apart.  We wore shirts under our skirts and the brand of those mattered too.  Our clothes for gym became a fashion show.  It was easier to get ready in the morning and did save my parents money on clothes but it does not make everyone feel the same.  There are still many, many ways to express your individuality and income bracket.  

I wore a uniform from pre-k to 9th grade.  When I in 10th grade I DESPISED that there were no uniforms.  That's when all the pressure to "fit in" started and other miscellaneous high school bullshit.

Uniforms are great.  I know you may be worried about the loss of individuality, but I didn't feel that way at all.  I really felt like it eliminated superficial competition.

I work in two schools. Both in diverse economic and cultural environments. One school labels and class issues are immediately apparent the other, I am always surprised when I find out about the kids home situation. I could never guess if they are part of the have-way-too-muches or have-nots. The other school you can tell right away and the kids who look alike, stick together. I say just provide (as we all know you will) plenty of opportunity for self expression and crazy fashion during the summer and at home. Then let your kiddos learn in an environment where at least everyone looks equal.

I love wearing uniforms. No hassle in the morning. Best thing ever.

I teach in a private Catholic high school and the kids are required to wear uniforms.  For the most part, they all really like it.  Except this year they made the kids wear the same shoes and that did NOT go over well.  They like soooome individuality/comfort.  It's also interesting on "dress-down" days, when they get to wear whatever they want, how much the kids change.  Their attitudes are completely different in their street clothes.  So competitive.  It's truly interesting to watch.

On another note, I also taught in a public school in a mixed income area and always thought that, though a creative outlet, the clothes were a distraction in class.  Girls with their ta-tas all over the place, guys with Bugs Bunny toting guns (why?), guys with pants around their knees (I mean, c'mon).  And I always thought uniforms would make it so much easier on kids to just be there, learning... I know.  I sound like a TEACHER...

I love fashion and I love being able to express yourself through fashion.  But some environments work better when there is less to distract you from the point of being there; i.e. learning.

I taught at a public elementary school in San Jose, CA that required uniforms.

One nice thing about the uniforms was that the principal kept a stash of school logo t-shirts and sweatshirts in her office, along with a huge box of khaki pants, shorts, and skirts donated by families whose kids had outgrown them. She always made sure that the kids who didn't have coats got the (much-coveted) logo sweatshirts (which could also be purchased to fund the PTA) and that the kids who were trying to squeeze another year out of too-short pants got khakis that were the right size. There was a lot of poverty at that school, but the uniforms allowed the principal to help kids in a way that didn't embarrass them or their families.

School isn't a fashion show.

I was a naughty Catholic schoolgirl here in Chicago.  Nuns used to make us kneel and measure our skirts.

I wore a uniform from 5-17 years of age.  The kicker?

I am only 30.

Don't worry, I'm not scarred for life.  My fashion sense is still in tact.

Back in the 90s, I used to rock combat boots and ripped leggings with my uniform skirt.

Your children's creativity will not be hindered by uniforms, if anything, it will force them to daydream...

Here's some info for you:  Archer has to live in a world of rules, and we all have to learn to adhere to quirks and things about society and all of it's bullshit "uniformity."  Seriously, you are reading way too much into the whole thing.  He has to wear a uniform?  Big fucking deal.  Get over it.

I wore a uniform to school from kindergarten through 8th grade. When I went to high school, still a private school just withouth a uniform, it was a pain in the ass. Figuring out what to wear everyday, what people are going to think of your outfit, if you look cool enough, all that crap. What you wear isn't the only way to express yourself, not at all. Archer will find so many other ways to show people who he is and what he's all about.

WOW.  super adorable fable sunglasses.  where did you get those?  must know.

xx

oh and what about your IRONY idea.  uniforms are lame, so now they are COOL.  thank you.

I also went to a k-8 school with uniforms. We made the best of it with our crimped hair, B.U.M Equipment bags, high bangs, and scrunchy socks. To be honest, I'm glad we didn't have too much control over the rest of our style. Good Lord, the pictures are bad enough! Haha.

As a public school teacher I am pro-uniforms, though our school doesn't have them. My fifth grade girls tend to wear a little too little and some of the sixth grade boys would scribble gang signs over their jeans...forcing lots of, "Go to the office and change." moments. The word, uniform may be hidden in the word uniformity...but uniformity is something that will never happen in our schools with diverse populations - and, of course if the arts have anything to say about it! :)

I went to both.  I preferred my school that required uniforms.  It allowed people to see you for who you really were instead of what you were wearing.  And as a result, I was able to express myself much more freely.  You find other means of self-expression and ways to be unique -- often more meaningful ones than fashion.

I wore a uniform from fist grade until middle school, but it was in Communist Eastern Europe! It never bothered me, but partially because we were all poor together. No kid in my school, city, country was rich so the uniform was more of a way to protect your regular clothes which were bought with hard-earned money and precious.

My son goes to a public school (he's going into grade 4).  My husband and I like the 'feel' of this school as it feels like a private school, but with the public price :) (free!).

About 2 yrs ago they put out a survey for uniforms.  In fact, the school used to be a catholic french school when I was growing up and everyone did where uniforms.  Then is became non-denominational as some point and uniforms went by the way-side.  Anyway .. the survey came back with the majority not wanting uniforms.  We both really wanted uniforms because's it so much easier!  However, the price was not cheap .. about $300 for the year.  I'm surprised when you mention that this makes everyone more equal .. how do the below-poverty level families afford uniforms at your school .. is the cost pro-rated to salary?  Our school is in a basically middle-upper class so affording was not the problem on our survey .. although, I guess if you have 5 kids that could get pricey!

My son will most likely go to a private highschool as well, and they will have uniforms.  Probably would have been better to start the uniforms wearing now .. but no choice!

Good luck with K this year .. such a big year!!

Sarah

Totally agree with, and so glad you included, that last paragraph about self-expression isn't limited to the clothes a person wears. I grew up in schools mostly wearing uniforms. You knew a kid was badass because of his or her shoes, earrings, etc., but also because... he was badass. He sat in the back row, played guitar in the garage, skinned his knees riding dirt bikes and wasn't into mainstream anything. He defined himself by what he did, rather than what he wore.

I want to challenge my kids to express themselves through more than their appearance.

Loved the post. Thanks for the opportunity to comment. :)

I did not have uniforms, all through school, and while I'm sure in the moment as a thirteen year old, I would have despised the idea, in retrospect, I wish we would have had uniforms. I grew up in a small town in FL in a high school the had a makeup of a variety of socio-economic backgrounds, and it was always glaring that I was on the more low-middle class end of those backgrounds because of the brands I wore in comparison to the richer kids. In elementary school, I don't think it matters as much, but in high school, it would have been nice to have one less thing for other kids to torture you over.

Also, my favorite days in HS were Friday game days, because I was a cheerleader and we had to wear our uniforms to school (like Glee! except not everyday...) and the football players wore those jerseys. I think it's because I felt like I belonged most on those days, when I looked like everyone else with no effort, vs. the other four days where I agonized over how I could fit in.

I liked dressing up in high school, but I think I secretly would have loved having uniforms.  One less thing to obsess over.  

My husband loves The Atlantic.  He loves it.  He lufs it.  He LURVES it.  

I never had to wear a uniform, although there was talk of it during my transition from middle to high school. It never panned out, but now I don't think it would be such a bad thing. If everyone dresses the same, it forces you to -gasp- form a personality where kids these days mostly seem to adhere to some snotty & rude code of interaction. Self expression should come from within, by what you say & how you act. Not by the clothes momma & daddy can afford to put on your back.

No comment on the uniforms but have to comment on the expected monthly contributions. How does the school get away with that??  

My son goes to an arts high school (LACHSA you should check it out, Archer may want to go one day!) that provides conservatory-style arts training in the afternoons. It's an intensive schedule for the students but they have to audition to get in and they are committed.

Obvs with the CA budget the funding has been cut and all the school can do is gently ask for parents to chip in. (Our dept. chair is a little more vocal in his "request" but still it's made very clear that they can't require or even heavily suggest donations.) Many of the parents, like us, feel their kids are so privileged to attend that they are happy to contribute, but others can't or won't. I wonder what it would be like if the expectation to give was a little more routine and up-front, like at Archer's school?

My son did K-8 at private school so maybe that set us up for paying but not all public school parents seem to be built that way. (And, if the world was right-side up, paying extra for children's education would be kind of eff-d up. But there's always money for bombs, right?!)

Interesting, Joanna.

I think as LAUSD parents, we understood from the get that we would likely have to chip in... Most school orientations (from our experience were clear that parents are literally funding public schools right now - that the school could not survive without some help from the parents.) We were told that if we couldn't afford to contribute that was understandable and we could contribute in other ways (volunteering time, doing outreach, fundraising, etc) ... The truth is, at least in Los Angeles NO decent public school is free. Education, in our opinion is the SINGLE most important place to put our money so we are willing and happy to give whatever we can and someday when we can afford it, would love to give more. (Totally agree with you. Education should be where we spend MOST of our money - not the least. Ugh.)

First, where the heck did you find such an awesome LAUSD public school?  I have a few years to find one but I am freaking out because pricey private schools are out of the questions, charter schools are getting crazy filled up with all those people who can no longer afford private schools, and having worked in education here in Los Angeles, I am pretty much scared of LAUSD.

Second, I used to think the same about uniforms but I have totally flipped and gone the way of Hal.  Fun with clothing is great but it is only a superficial part of originality, identity, and individuality. Most of the people I really admire--the non-conformists who go against the current of the masses are cool not because of what they wear but because of what they do.

The unfortunate part for me about uniforms is that kids still out class each other with the $1000 handbags and designer shoes.  But I guess that says more about the parents than the kids.

I went to private junior high and high school. My junior high (Chandler in Pasadena) had uniforms- navy blue and kelly green jumpers (sleeveless dresses) for the girls and beige shorts or pants/ green or blue shirts for the boys. I personally loved the uniforms. The younger girls had to wear white shirts under their jumpers, but 6-8th graders could wear pastel shirts under theirs. We had fun with it. It was the '80's and preppy was it. We'd wear sometimes 3 differently-colored polos under our dress, then argyle socks and K-swiss with crazy shoelaces. I hated worrying about clothes in high school (no uniforms there).

A uniform does not mean kids will always be blended. My friend went to a catholic high school and although they were mandated to wear the same bottoms/skirts, the accessories, white shirts and shoes were free game. So instead of stressing over outfits, she was stressing over insanely expensive shoes and tops, as that's what differentiated the rich/popular kids.

But in elementary school, I think it's great not to have to worry about fashion. I wish I had that option!

Limitations push us to be creative. And also? Clothes shouldn't and don't really matter. The idea that what we wear shows who we are is pretty superficial, no? I didn't have to wear uniforms but my kids do, and I teach in a public high school in Memphis where our students have uniforms. I can assure you that they find ways to individualize them. And as with non-uniform teenager attire, those "individualizing" touches are pretty much the same within cliques and groups. The uniforms also make it easier to identify strangers on campus, which is important in a city with one less murder than Detroit last year. We have issues like that.

I wore uniforms from 1-12th grade, and while I wasn't a fan at the time, in retrospect I am so, so glad I had to wear them.  Kids (and everyone, frankly) focus way too much on image, to the expense of personality.  Uniforms help level the playing field so that everyone has to stand on the force of *themselves*  And to me that's awesome.  Fashion sense is nice, and all, but to stand out without the chance to use fashion as a substitute for substance is something to be proud of.  

In short- so what they can't wear cool clothes?  They'll be cool *people*, who know that appearances don't matter, and that is so infinitely more important.

Rebecca, for kids like us (you and me) who grew up in affluent southern california suburbs, I think NO uniforms is the way to go!! I grew up in Orange County and we defined ourselves through our clothes. It was super fun to get dressed every day. In the '90s, I don't think kids were as interested in uber-designer labels as they are now so we all wore mall clothes or stuff from vintage stores, etc.

My husband's 17 year old cousin goes to a public texas high school and wears louis vuitton, tory burch and chanel every day...the unfortunate part is that not all the kids at her school are as well off as her family. There is a group of lower-income kids who are "friends" with her clique, attend their parties, but also steal from her and her rich friends' families. They have a "no snitch" rule though, so these kids get away with it.

Considering how diverse Archer's school is, I think uniforms are the way to go.

I grew up in London and wore a uniform from 4-18 years of age. I am now 22 and my parents have not (directly) paid a dime for my education. Uniforms are the norm here at every kind of school and I think it is key to helping the child discover their identity without relying on clothes to speak for them. Archer will be just fine. Don't you worry.

Also, I had friends at Mater Dei (catholic private high) in Costa Mesa who definitely accessorized themselves to a tee. The mod/ska girls had their funny 1960's haircuts, the punk rock groupies had their highlighted/sparky Mac lipglass/uber tans, and the band geeks, well, they probably had their clarinets.

Thanks for the post. My cousin went to a private school where she wore uniforms from K-12th grade and didn't have a problem with them. My nieces and nephews now attend a public school where uniforms are enforced. My sister loves the uniforms. She usually stocks up on <a href="www.jcpenney.com/.../Cg10406.jsp">school uniforms</a> when they are on sale and just cycles them down to the youngest one. The kids don't really have an opinion either way. They do enjoy the fact that they can wear the shoes, accessories, jackets and outerwear of their choosing.

Good point, Rebecca. We all wore cut-off shorts, flannel and stuff from Thrifty Threads... There was no such thing as designer stuff, not even in High School... But you're right - we were all from the same socio-economic background.

I went to a private school with uniforms for three years, and public schools for the rest of the time. While I can't say that I loved uniforms, or that kids didn't find other ways of creating differences - the most popular girls in my class were the ones whose mothers had tons of time to volunteer - it made things a lot easier. And my single parent dad appreciated them a huge amount; he never had to worry about what was trendy for a kid to be wearing. Maybe it's just that we were younger, but there seemed to be way, way fewer class divisions than I experienced at public school. I had a much easier time, because our family didn't have a huge clothing budget. Clothes aren't the only way to express yourself, and if you stick with this school system, I think it's significantly easier on girls in particular to have uniforms rather than constantly having to try to figure out the latest fashion trends and replace a wardrobe twice a year just to stay "cool."

oh no now you will be riding in a mini-van in UNIFORMS!!!

my opinion: i wish my kids had to wear uniforms. i really don't care that much either way I'd just like to spend less money on clothes and have them spend less time picking out said clothing in the morning. also, fighting with the 16 yr. old over what is and is not appropriate for school

i also think that for everything you stand for and try to instill in your kids i'm surprised that you think they would be defined by their clothing and not their sparkling personalities. even if i was naked i'd still be a beeotch!! haha!! jk!

Don't think clothing defines a person. Not at all. I just LOVE clothes. Have always loved clothes, getting dressed - it was always a creative outlet for me personally... and not in a shallow way, I don't think. It was like wearing new skins every day - like a puzzle trying to fit things together... Draw inspiration from fashion mags and then make up my own version of what I saw... I think people so quickly dismiss clothing as "shallow and vapid" but I totally disagree.

I get frustrated when people dismiss clothing (makeup, too) as something "shallow" and insignificant. If clothes can make you feel good and interesting and experimental, confident, even beautiful, then what is the difference between putting together an outfit and say, painting a picture? Taking a photograph? Writing a story?

I'm getting totally tangental now, I know, but I guess I just felt the need to stick up for clothing/those who dress creatively, who depend on clothes as a creative outlet for them. Fashion gets written off as superficial but expression through dress, especially for women, is as old as time.

I sound like a total douche in the above comment. Pardon.

Pay Pay for public school? That, THAT my friend is the outrage.

I lived in that area once. They tax you high and then on top of it make you pay for public school? What an outrage!

I just wanted to add that if we had to pay for our kids' public school, they wouldn't be attending, reason being, we live well below the poverty level. We have home-schooled on occasion when we had special circumstances that altered our lifestyle enough to merit a different school schedule. The the amount of money we spent (and we are still paying that off) for all six kids, was 1/7th  of what the public school charges to do the same thing. Where does all that money go (roughly 7 grand per kid)? Payroll. In California, the teachers make 50+ grand per year starting out. If you and your husband are each making that, then it makes financial sense to pay for someone else to teach your child, but if, like us, you are making 80% of the poverty level (for us with six kids that is 30 grand per year) it does not make sense to pay anyone else, but to take advantage of as many opportunities that present themselves for underpaid people. By underpaid, I mean construction workers and, hello, MOTHERS. Thank God you actually have money to donate. I worked PTO and donated for years until we pretty much bottomed out. I have spent my last dime, sometimes, flying a kid to an educational competition. I worship the education beast like anyone else, but this is outrage, that they expect parents to pay, after they've taken your tax dollars. The very definition of public school is that it levels the playing field for people who otherwise would be uneducated.  Sorry for the rant. This just makes me so mad. I'm so so glad we left LA and went to Texas. It's not perfect, but we don't expect poor people to pay for education here.

I wore a uniform K-12, and while I complained about it when I was in school, now that I am an adult I realize how nice it was.  K-8 we all wore the same thing, and then in high school we had a choice of gray or blue skirt and any colored shirt.  So we were able to express ourselves in a small way.  When I was a junior they decided to let the girls wear pants during winter months.  We loved it, and of course pushed it to the extreme so that they eventually decided girls could not wear pants.  But back to the point.  I think uniforms are nice in school.  I am a public school teacher and I am amazed at what parents will allow their children to walk out of the house in...especially girls.  

 Although I wore a uniform I still felt I was able to express myself.  I changed my hair a lot, wore funky socks/tights, "cool" shoes, and jewelery.  So, there will be ways that your children will be able to express themselves.  We also had dress down days as fundraisers.

 It also makes back to school shopping super easy!

Jael - obviously if people can't afford to pitch in, that's totally understandable. No one HAS to pay. There are a lot of people within the school who can afford to help out and everyone who can seems to be happy to do so. In my opinion teachers should be making MUCH MORE than 50k a year. 50k a year in Los Angeles isn't very much when you take into consideration the overhead. The reason our school system is so fucked is because teachers are drastically underpaid. There's no allure - and although teachers have to want to teach and LOVE to teach they should also be rewarded handsomely for their efforts.  In a town where people make millions a year doing far less important things? It's an insult for teachers to be making what they make.  (I think.)

I've never NOT gone to a school without uniforms -- I wore one every day from age five on. We rolled our skirts up a lot to look different and expressed our individuality by coloring in our fingernails with markers. Didn't really bother me, perhaps because I never knew what it would be like to wear whatever I wanted to school. For seven years, I even had to wear a tie.  I know, right? But now at least I can tie my husband's properly for him when we go to weddings.

i wore a uniform until third grade, it was great -- i think it made mornings easier for me and for my parents, and i don't think i was old enough to care about what i was wearing to school at that age.

I commented before and think I didn't communicate very well what I was trying to say.  I used the word "superficial" in reference to clothing choice and I think I should have said that it is just one way to explore self-expression and identity.  I love clothes and dressing up.  My 22 month old is already picking out her own outfits and I encourage it. I still remember certain items of clothing I had in preschool and how special I felt when I wore them.  Sometimes I google my fashion icons just to get a pick-me-up and let it be known that the fashion of the french new wave cinema is a large part of why I went  to film school way back when.  But as I get older I am becoming away that this mortal coil is really just the package of the soul.  Not sure if that is exactly why I have changed my mind about uniforms but it has something to do with it.  

I went to Catholic schools my entire life, so it was uniforms from kindergarten to graduation, and I don't regret it at all. I loved the convenience of knowing exactly what I was going to wear in the morning. We had *some* choice (button down shirt or polo, a few different sweaters, kilt or pants, etc) but it was a very limited choice and all of it colour coordinated, so you didn't really need a lot of brain power to put together an outfit.

In high school, we had white shirts (with a monogram, of course) and navy pants, so it looked really sharp. We regularly got comments when we went on field trips about how neat, clean, well dressed, etc we were. But they didn't quash all freedom, we could still accessorize, wear our own shoes, etc.

I actually missed the uniform when I hit university. It was strange to actually have to think about what to wear, and even stranger for me to see someone in class in PJs or sweats. It just didn't seem normal after so many years of everyone dressed in navy slacks every day.

I would, without a doubt, send any future children to a uniformed school. I get the urge to express one's self through the medium that is fashion, but we also learned that you don't need to dress differently than everyone else just to express yourself, which is also a valuable lesson.

Well, your post made me talk to my boyfriend about this. We're both aniuniforms and have been since day 1. I remember I had to wear an uniform for gymnastics on preschool and I HATED it. Yeah, I was three and I remember that. I remember looking at my half red, half green sweatshirt and pants and not wanting to go to school because I had to wear it.

Personally, I don't think uniforms make all kids equal in a class, it just makes them obedient and conformist. They are taught that they have to belong to the big mass and not be different. I hate them, and I would never put my children (if I ever have them) into a school that required uniforms. I get that my point of view may change when I get into motherhood, but that's how I see it now.

I've even rejected a job because I was expected to wear a lemon yellow polo / navy skirt as uniform and when asked if I could change pants for skirt I was told no way (which here in Spain is anticonstitutional).

Oh and about the donation thing. Here in Spain it's quite different. Teachers on public schools are government workers and so are paid by the government. Nobody is expected to pitch in at all. I guess schools won't reject a donation, but mostly people don't do it because if somebody has enough to donate then the kid's most likely going to a private school.

I went to Catholic school growing up and uniforms were mandatory.  And totally uncool.  Plaid jumpers and white shirts with Peter Pan colors WHAT?!

But grown-up me appreciates the focus they provide.  I totally sympathize with your thoughts about fashion as expression and your worry that Archer won't be able say what he wants with his clothes.  But the pitfall for kids is  that they can become too concerned with the way they look and the way other people SHOULD look.  It's totally human nature to judge books by covers.  That's why we spend so much time telling kids (and ourselves) to look deeper, to see what's behind the jacket art or the t-shirt.  And uniforms allow kids to do that with their peers.

Based on what you've written over years, I believe Archer is a creative person and will always be a creative person.  I don't think uniforms will hinder that growth.  Instead, he can write what he wants, read what he wants, say what he wants, draw what he wants and play how he wants without someone forcing him into their idea of who he should be and how he should look through social pressure.  At least, that's what uniforms did for me.  Confidence is the best catalyst for creativity.

I wore uniforms from 6-12 grade. Man do I ever miss them. I LOVED them. We had the plaid skirts and the whole 9 (also we could not wear whatever shoes we wanted) but there was something so comfortable about wearing the same thing every day. For one, you could feel it right away if something was off, like if your skirt was  tucked in to your tights or was folded up or something cause your body memorizes how the uniform feels when it is on correctly, so the chances of wardrobe malfunctions decrease tremendously. Also, I don't think that uniforms stifle self expression at all. I mean, in high school I would have said it did, but the truth is you still find ways to express yourself with how you wear the uniform and the loop holes you find in the dress code. For example, my best friend realized that there was no rule about what buttons you had on your uniform, so she sewed vinatge buttons on her peacoats and cardigans and then painted the buttons on her oxford shirts and shoes. Administration wanted to kill her, but there was no set rule against it. Anyway, whats what I think about that.

To Cati: In the US, for public school, they are all govt workers too, but some states have so many budget issues that they request extra money from parents.  It is not supposed to be this way.  Public school = free school (well, taxpayer paid school).

I always wanted a uniform when I was in school.  

I absolutely HATED uniforms. I wore one from K-6 grade. When I finally convinced my ma to take me out of Catholic shools and into public, I was over the moon.

I remember having countless fights with my mother about not wanting to get dress for school becuase of those damn ugly uniforms. It wasn't fair we had no self expression. We couldn't even wear nail polish!

I hope you have better results then my family. :)

I went to a private school so we were required to wear uniforms. It was the best move my mother made. Coming from a low income family my sister and I always struggled to fit in because we didn't shop at the Gap, J. Crew, Banana Republic, etc. The uniforms helped give us level playing field and we couldn't tell who the rich kids were and who the poor kids were, we all looked the same. Yuck, that last part sounds bad but when you're in school kids can be mean, so the uniforms at least saved us from some ridicule and took the pressure off of having to fit in.

I'm with Hal. I love the idea of uniforms in school. Plus, when the kids start to pick out their clothes on there own in the morning, they won't have to think about it.

I love little kids in uniform! Too cute!!

I think you'll like the toddler clothing I'll selling on my blog. Please take a glimpse...

pearlsandgreentea.blogspot.com

I went to a school with uniforms from kindergarten to third grade and I do remember vividly hating wearing a uniform. But that being said, I never felt like I wasn't an individual or I couldn't express myself. It just wasn't fun. But I think that a good education is more important then dressing fun (and I am  in love with all things fashion related)

@Jael -- I don't think it's always been the case that parents had to shore up the public schools financially. I'm pretty sure my parents, for example, didn't donate any money. But since Reagan, there's been a very wide "government is bad" (except when it's handing out lucrative contracts) swath running through the U.S., and it has really affected funding for the necessities, like schools. If you are a homeowner and look at a property tax bill there's actually a fairly small amount that is designated for public schools. The priorities are skewed, IMHO.

I work at an elementary school and I have to bring my own paper and printer ink cartridges; there literally is not enough money. We ask parents to donate supplies and if they can, they do. And our parent body puts on a fundraising auction. It just surprised me that a public school would be upfront about asking for money because at my son's arts high school they make such a point of saying, "We can't really ask straight up but if you are inclined, here's where to send your check (that we really, really need!)."

I wore a uniform from 1st through 6th grade.  The girls wore pants or jumpers...and all of the girls wore shorts under their jumpers (you had to still be able to hang on the monkey bars!).  I loved picking out my shorts and matching them to my socks/shoes.  Oh, and the ribbon/barrettes/necklaces!!!  I just found other ways to be creative.  Whenever we had a "free day" and you could wear what you wanted...you really saw the economic separation.  Didn't care for that a great deal.

Overall, I loved wearing uniforms!! Nothing could trap or hinder my uniqueness. :D

I went to private school 1st-12th grade and wore uniforms 1-8th grade. I loved it. We found other ways to be creative and express ourselves (shoes were SUCH a big deal, hair, jewelry). I was beyond excited to get out of uniforms for high school, but truth be told, it was more stressful than anything. I went to a private high school that had a huge gap in family income. I felt so much pressure to keep up with the rich kids. My parents did their best to help me keep up the first couple years, but I remember feeling guilty every fall when it was time for school shopping. By the time 11th & 12th grade had come along, I quit caring. But in retrospect, I wish I had had uniforms in high school, too! The competition is distracting and unhealthy.

I can understand your dilemma, GGC. I also see fashion as a creative outlet and artistic expression (yours wasn't a douche-y comment, btw). But I think uniforms sort of force you to be even more creative in expressing your individuality, whether it be through shoes or accessories or hairstyle. I guess it's a bit more challenging for boys, though. I have a feeling that Archer will find a way to express himself.

I went to a Catholic high school with a strict dress code (no jeans, only collared shirts, etc.). The dress code was so restrictive that my friends and I wanted a uniform to just make it easier. I think I had fantasies about rolling up a plaid skirt...

1. I'm a teacher and I've been in schools with uniforms.  NOTHING keeps a kid's individuality down. If a kid wants to express, he/she will find a way. Do not sweat it.

2. Not every kid gives a hoot about what he/she is wearing or even wants to express him/herself that way. For some of us, fashion was just a huge stressor.

I was a terribly awkward and sensitive teenager.  I hated having to pick out clothes.  I hated being so hyper-aware of what I was wearing and wondering whether it was my clothes or something else that the other kids would find objectionable.  I would have thoroughly reveled in the chance to check that off the list of crap I had to worry about every day of middle school.  

Rebecca, I wore uniforms starting in first grade and on through high school.  I was what you would call a "goody-two-shoes," so, of course, I loved it.  In many ways it simplified my life, in that I don't have to worry about what to wear each morning.  I could essentially roll out of bed, get dressed, and begin my day ...  and concentrate on all the things that I loved (like homework).  ;)

This article is written in，I was looking for the information.Thank you and your share this articl at here.

　　I was actually looking for this resource a few weeks back. Thanks for sharing with us your wisdom.This will absolutely going to help me in my projects .

　　I love it,Excellent article.I am decide to put this into use one of these days.Thank you for sharing this.To Your Success!

Honestly, I don't think uniforms will ever squander a child's creativity.  If Archer wants to dream big, he will, no matter what he's wearing.  And he isn't in school every hour of his life nor will all accessories be off-limits, so he'll still have fashion as a creative outlet to some extent.  We all have to learn to be ourselves within the confines of our environment - that means something different for everybody, and maybe for Archer, it means within the confines of wearing a uniform to school.

I don't know.  I mean, there have been plenty of creative people who wore school uniforms as children.  I don't think it'll keep him down.

But also, something else, just as aside: when I was a kid, I would have killed for uniforms.  Every year, our school district debated it and I always vehemently voiced my opinions against it (that's what we kids were supposed to do), but I secretly wanted uniforms.  My family didn't have the money other families in our school did and so while their kids showed up in designed brands, I came to school in tattered hand-me-downs.  I don't think it negatively affected me that I was different, and although I know I was bullied over it I can't really remember it much, but I do remember wishing that everybody was on the same playing field.  At least a little bit.

So you never know.  Archer might love it.

I'm pretty sure this isn't the point of your post, but I'm just wondering...You're required to donate monthly? Really?  I know all about the terrible state of the public school system (and not just California. I am an unemployed teacher in Oregon, where we just cut another 9% out of an already butchered budget, where Professional Development days have already turned into Furlough days).  I know that in order to have things as valuable as the arts, it's gotta come from somewhere other than the government.  But if the school is so socioeconomically diverse, with incomes ranging from the very poor to the very rich, how can everyone afford monthly "donations?" (which sounds suspiciously like "tuition.")  And how in the world can they all afford $210.43 for uniforms??? Some (the Gazillionaires), of course, would have spent 10 times that much for their kids school clothes.  Others would have spent nothing at all, because they have nothing to spend.  And of course I realize that this is precisely what the uniform enforcement is meant to alleviate-the wide SES gap that the students, literally, wear on their sleeves.  But many people just don't have the money to buy the uniforms, or they would have bought the clothes for their kids in the first place.  Right?  I totally know this is not your doing and you probably cant answer my (rant) questions.  I'm just sitting here scratching my head over the whole thing...

ps...I'm sure, especially with you as a mom, Archer will do just fine in the expression and creativity department!

I had to wear uniform all throughout elementary school and hated it (I remember my mother always putting braids in my hair; which I also hated)! In Jr. Highschool: I remember we had a brief stint with uniform. But that didn't last long, so for the remainder of Jr. Highschool we got to wear our own clothes (thankfully). And since I didn't go to a Catholic Highschool: I wore regular clothes, as well.

***ALTHOUGH (!): They did have some stupid rule that on two days of the week...I believe on Tuesdays & Thursday: We had to wear black jeans and no sneakers were allowed. If we didn't follow these rules on those days, we would be written up for it (I was actually one of the first, along with some other guy, to be sent to the principal's office for not wearing the dress code on those days. Mind you, I abided by the dress code almost all the time, so I don't get that mix-up on why I was called out. I found it to be so bizzarre. But since I was so shy---and I still am---I didn't say anything. I mean it wasn't like I never followed the rule at all. Psssh! Still holdin' a grudge YO). And they checked you as soon as you got into the school. That didn't last long either. That's what you call stupid regulations with no purpose in my opinion. If you're going to go with something: "Go with it 100%!" Not half-assed! ;o/***

I understand though why in some schools they require kids to wear uniform. Everyone's obsessed with wearing designer clothes, and if you're not wearing what's "in," you get made fun of.

Still: I get your disappointment. Uniform does rob you of your creativity. I'd rather my kid wear regular clothes than boring uniform. But I understand why it's required.

I had a uniform for one school I attended in highschool. I absolutely loathed it and it too me a dozen years to want to wear those colors again (black, khaki, and white). I never dressed to be part of a crowd at any point in my life (except at protests, where I dressed in as "mainstream" a way as possible to make my message more palatable to the target audience (need I say that I wasn't necessarily popular w/ the anarchist-flag-burning protestors?)) but I've always dressed for *me* and my theories of fashion or social interaction via clothing. Some bleak, pitch black winter "mornings" during highschool, the loss of that small joy of self-expression and color was overwhelming.

Should clothing be that big of a deal? Probably not. But for me the uniform made those two years of an unpleasant adolescence worse. I got into conflicts about clothing with parents and teachers/administrators, I ended up more alienated from classmates, I felt even more uncomfortable in my changed body (with not even any real say in how I clothed it), and I lost the stupidly simple (but very real) joy that comes from wearing a favorite tshirt.

I too am a very creative person and I actually always WISHED that my schools had uniform policies. It would have been nice to not worry about what brand of clothing was/wasn't cool. I love clothes and fashion, but I did find it exhausting to constantly worry about if what I was wearing was cool enough. Wearing a uniform would have been breezy and I would have loved the extra time sleeping in! I would have expressed myself with my hair and makeup instead and looked forward to my cool outfits on the weekend. I actually wish that where I currently work had a uniform policy so that I wouldn't have to waste money on formal business clothes for work and then casual clothes outside of work. Archer's uniforms will save you so much money in the end!

I went to a private school from K-8 minus one year spent at public school for first grade, and my mother and I both liked the fact that there were uniforms.  It's much easier to keep a few pairs of skirts (or slacks), polos, and sweaters clean and ready than an entire wardrobe. I was so involved with extracurriculars after school as well that I never had a chance to go home and change, so my uniform is what I pretty much wore from when I woke up to when I went to bed.  

I went to a private prep high school that DIDN'T have uniforms, but most of us were laid back enough in the good ol' pacific northwest that it was jeans and sweatshirts/tshirts for just about everyone everyday.  We actually made fun of the girls that went out of their way to put make-up on and dress up in fancy clothes.  Cause I mean...it's school. Who cares what you wear?  

Now I'm in the evil midwest and I shake my head over the people that send their kids to single-gender schools. Wtf?

I fondly remember the uniform days... I wore uniforms from age 4 to age 12.  I am 23 now, and wish that I could wear a uniform to work instead of a suit.  Uniforms I feel accomplish two important things.  The first, is that they emphasize that school is a place to learn.  The second, is that they taught me that it was important to dress in certain ways for certain events.  I doubt my work colleagues currently would be happy if I decided to "express myself" through my clothing, as I work in an industry which is very formal.

On a more personal note, when I was 5 I was super homesick at school.  We wore jumpers over white peter pan blouses, and my mother, to make me feel better, took one of the buttons no one could see off of each of my shirts and replaced it with a white heart shaped button so I would always know that she loved me when I missed home during the day.  I saved all of those shirts, but not much other clothing from my early childhood.

I SO hear you!, albeit a bit late. As a misfit Florida girl growing up in the 70s & 80s what I wore to school was everything to me; high heel sneakers, balloon rubber(!) pants, my Star Wars t-shirt, day-glo sprayed on everything, every thing from punk to cowboy hats & back 'round again, I wore it on some day or another to express my growing up emotions (mostly major discontent with the world). Now, far too many years later, I am living in England, about to send my gorgeous, so young 4 year old boy off to a school in a system (culture?) where uniforms are unquestioned. And I am crushed!  Why? I can't quite put my finger on it; I understand and definitely agree with some of the arguments for uniforms but there is just something that just doesn't sit right with me. I feel for you! And, hey, I did go out with a guy who was in LURVE with the Atlantic, what is it all about, for heaven sakes, it isn't Vogue!

The mornings are sooo much easier with uniforms and we don't have to compete with the latest fashions on campus. The problem for us that we solved was finding appropriate shorts to go under the uniforms..so we made them and started smartiepantsapparel last year!