School Uniform Shorts

From LoveToKnow Kids

In fulfilling the requirements of a school uniform, shorts may or may not be allowed by your local school board.

Uniform Specifications

As school systems put together the elements of the school dress code, the actual specifications can vary significantly. While some schools simply require students to dress in khakis and white button-downs, others spell out a variety of clothing regulations. As one of the items of a school uniform, shorts are often a debatable article of clothing. Some school systems do allow shorts, others absolutely forbid the wearing of any type of shorts, including capri pants. A typical uniform ensemble often includes the following:

Shirts-These are typically of a polo or button-down style. Usually no sleeveless shirts are allowed for either boys or [Girls' School Uniforms|girls].
Pants-In many cases, pants are either a khaki or navy color, although school systems may allow other colors as well. More specific guidelines may stipulate that pants are worn at the natural waist (to eliminate the temptation to "sag"), pants leg hems must not drag the floor, and capri pants are not allowed.
Accessories-Accessories can include belts, shoes, socks, etc.
Skirts-In some schools, particularly private schools, girls are required to wear skirts as opposed to pants. Other requirements may stipulate that skirts fit at the natural waist, skirt lengths must meet a regulation length, such as "to the knee", etc.

Establishing a Dress Code

Most school systems create a school-wide committee that creates the particularly dress code for the entire system or district. However, in some instances, unique specifications or requirements are established for each individual school or age group. For example, [Toddler-size School Uniforms|preschool] elementary school students may be allowed to wear shorts as part of their school uniform, while older students in middle school and high school may not be given this privilege.

If your school is in the midst of establishing a school dress code, talk to your superintendent to find out how you can be included in the planning and implementation of the dress code. Many districts create dress code committees that are comprised of school board officials, school faculty members, students, and parents.

Information on School Uniform Shorts

Finding school uniform shorts that actually meet the requirements set aside by your district's board can be tricky. Those systems which do allow shorts have typically established strict guidelines that specify material type, color, and hem length. Typical requirements regarding uniform shorts include the following:

Must be worn at the natural waist.
Must be at or below the knee.
Must be a specific material and color, such as khaki or navy.
Must not be rolled or turned at the waist or at the hem line.
Must be free of holes, patches, insignias, etc. unless specified by the dress code.

In some cases, although students may be wearing the specified shorts, how they wear them may cause them to violate the dress code. For example, some students try to shorten their shorts by turning up the hem, and others want to wear their shorts around their hips instead of at the waist.

Where to Shop

Shopping for uniforms can be tricky and inexpensive, especially if your school posts very specific requirements. There are several department stores, however, that sell uniform pieces. Typically, before a dress code is established, the committee researches locations that sell the required clothing. The following stores have a good selection of uniform clothing.

Finally, look for used uniforms in the classifieds, at yard sales, or online at places like eBay and Craigslist.

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