The formal dress code is not all that's at play when it comes to students freely expressing themselves

By Lily Wand ‘23

Graphic by Jane Zeigler ‘23

Although Catlin Gabel School (CGS) has evolved a very loose dress code, there is still an underlying stigma perpetuated through class, gender, power, professionalism, and social pressure. 

The CGS dress code allows students and teachers the ability to dress freely under some relaxed guidelines, but digging deeper into the culture of the school may explain why some employees and students may not feel comfortable dressing the way they want. 

According to the Family Handbook, the school’s statement of dress is, “The school’s standard is simply that clothing be neat, clean, and appropriate to the program of the day. Students who arrive on campus wearing inappropriate clothing will be asked to change. Examples of inappropriate clothing may include but are not limited to clothing that displays the following: explicit language, implicit or explicit references to illegal drugs and substances, and insensitive and/or prejudiced expletives and references.” 

Media, community norms, and social standards influence the idea that a student’s clothing must be “professional” to be respected and acknowledged as an academic individual. Clothing and attire not only have strong effects on the faculty-student relationship but also social dynamics and relationships between students. 

Through interviews with students and teachers, and generally hearing out other opinions, it is clear that although CGS allows self-expression and people to “push the boundaries,” it is not always accepted. 

Senior Ollie Tannahill stated that “I dress to fit in not to stand out,” exemplifying the tension between personal style and fitting in. When in reality the culture of fitting in is an inherent trait that is keeping CGS students from stepping outside of their comfort zone at school. Tannahill also referred to the conscious effect he feels clothes have on how he portrays himself. 

Although other students might not keep track of everything every student wears, the idea that community members can't repeat clothes is also a strong idea in Senior Grace Mueller’s head. Mueller specifically said, “I always have to think about what I’m wearing even if other people aren't actually paying attention.” This speaks to the judgment at CGS and the impact of clothes and initial perception and pressure on students. 

It seems contrary, but it seems like the loose dress code at CGS has no reflection on what people actually wear and to what magnitude. This being said, CGS is developing more variation in stylistic choices and the freedom to do that. 

At the root of it, in a school setting, Mueller says “I don’t think someone's clothing changes the way that their brain works and how they think and that’s the importance of school.” To paraphrase, school is for learning and what someone wears is not directly reflective of one's capacity in school, personality, who one's friends are, and how one identifies.

These critiques on CGS attire do hold a strong influence among students and faculty, but the teacher's perspective is valuable as they are equally affected. Bianca Nakayama, a science teacher in the upper school, looks back on her experiences at CGS as being very positive compared to the previous school she taught at in Minnesota. 

Nakayama said, “I’m so glad that at this school I don’t have to spend a single moment of my time enforcing the dress code.” This comparison shows an interesting contrast between schools and regions.

Although there are certain struggles in the community surrounding dress code Nakayama adds “I think with teenagers you're always going to get a tension with wanting to conform but also be unique and standout.'' This is not only a CGS issue but it extends to all teenagers from different schools, cultures, and decades. 

Additionally, there is a geographical element that adds a lot to the expected culture and especially right now the influence of second-hand fashion and thrifting. Nakayama notes that the reason so many young people might be so drawn to second-hand clothing is that “a lot of young people are very aware of the ethics behind clothes and especially fast fashion.” Mueller and Tannahill commented in a similar way. 

This issue is not only relevant to the CGS community but also the whole world. Think about how your influence in a smaller community can affect people outside too.