School Uniforms. Good idea or pain in the a$$?

It's that time again, back to school.  I thought for sure school uniforms were behind me.

Think again.What my daughter is wearing isn't a uniform, but part of her new school's strict dress code.  Business casual.

She can only wear brown, tan, blue or gray pants.  Brown or black shoes.  Collared blouses or polo shirts, tucked in with a belt.  Fitted blouses that are tapered at the waist can be worn out.

Today she is wearing a cardigan, which is also acceptable attire.

It's  difficult looking for business casual clothing for an 11 y/o and the pain is having to buy another set of clothes for recreation (out of school time).  No denim allowed.  Well, only on dress down days.

Even though I find the dress code mildly annoying, I agree with the policy.  Not only because having the students dress more monolithic lessens the ability (they still do it) to compare dress styles and name brands, but because it teaches them about dressing for the workforce.

I'm all for individuality and expressing oneself, but it has it's own time and place.   Being neat, well groomed and professional  will get you further than trying to prove you can  keep up with the latest trends in fashion.

We live in a world where presentation means everything and you will be judged at first glance.   And to get a seat at the table, you have to look the part.  I want my daughter to be taken seriously and her skills assessed not her dress.

What do you think about uniforms and dress codes?  Love 'em or hate 'em?

Either way, here's to having a great school year.

P.S. Please pardon my lack of photography skills, the picture is kinda blurred.  Don't judge;)