Across the county, public high school dress codes vary school-by-school. Students at one particular school may be content with their school’s dress code, while others may feel that the dress code today often interferes with the way that students may want to express themselves or their desire to fit in with current trends and styles. 

Most schools have either a uniform style or a strict dress code. Olympic Heights is one of many schools that has a dress code policy containing rules such as: “Absolutely no halter-tops, tube tops/bandeaus, spaghetti string tops, tank tops, sleeveless jerseys, and racer tops.” “Pajamas should not be worn,” and “no head covering of any kind, (exceptions of medical or religious reasons).” Trending articles of clothing, especially for teenagers, seems to interfere with the OH dress code. 

One new fashion trend that may seem non-offensive actually violates the OH dress code. This style is wearing pajama bottoms as pants simply anywhere. Teenagers enjoy being comfortable and casual, so pajamas are an easy, low-effort style. It has become a globally accepted concept amongst high school students. 

OH sophomore Jayda Frenchman shared, “I personally feel that the dress code affects me. I should be able to wear whatever I want without it being a ‘distraction.’” Her thoughts represent how many other students feel. 

Female students must abide by the guideline that their shoulders can not be showing, as well as any part of their midriff. The OH website contains information and examples on what is appropriate and what is not. The website states, “all blouses, shirts, and tops must be high enough to eliminate exposure of cleavage and long enough to prevent exposure of midriff, back or side.” This guideline often clashes with the trendy South Florida weather style of tank tops. Both male and female students often wear tank tops outside of school because it is so hot in South Florida year round. 

OH sophomore Sloane Collins shared, “Since we go to school in Florida, it is extremely hot out. The dress code does not allow us to wear tank tops and shorts above fingertip length which makes it difficult to find clothes cool enough to wear during these hot times.” Plenty of other students feel the same way, which is why they may risk wearing a tank top or a top with less coverage to stay cool in hot temperatures.

OH sophomore Marcus Miranda shared similar thoughts on the dress code. ”While sometimes it’s easier for guys to wear dry-fit sports shirts on hot days, we’d still like the flexibility to wear a sleeveless shirt,” said Miranda.

As long as the dress code continues to be a firm guideline with consequences, students will continue to be frustrated with the lack of flexibility to stay current with the latest fashion trends. Dressing within the code’s parameters will continue to challenge all students and the way they may express themselves.