Design Perspective: Back to School Style
Please note: this article was originally published in Spanish in September 2024 for Petit Style Magazine.
September holds the same sense of renewal that January promises. We return to work and school following our summer holidays and, as the weather turns cooler, autumn begins to reveal itself. Forget depressing New Year’s Resolutions – ‘back to school’ provides an energising fresh start!
Illustration by: Buttercrumble
This new beginning grants a motivating opportunity to reinvent ourselves, exercise our strengths, and remedy our foibles. I find this especially true of our young generation who are climbing social ladders and (literally) growing out of their former selves! A new wardrobe is the antidote and I’m sure, like me, you can recognise the transformative power of fashion.
Now, the majority of children will exchange the clothes of their choice with school uniforms and this new wardrobe can look rather soulless. ‘To uniform or not uniform’ is an age-old debate, and it’s easy to question the effect of this selfsame attire on our children’s self-esteem. Indeed, academics such as Hendricks, Kelly, and Eicher (1968) found that clothing helps teenagers to establish their independence and self-identity. Fashion celebrates individuals’ unique magic.
Conversely, context (e.g. the culture of a school, the socio-economic and geographic environment, etc.) is key. Traditional, cultural styles such as Scottish kilts can nurture a sense of belonging and patriotism. They transcend the pull of personalisation as they reflect the values and attitudes of entire communities. Conformity can offer a warm blanket of acceptance, and uniforms can form a familiar and equal playing field for students.
I think for many of us the sweet spot sits somewhere between individuality and collective conformity. We must be sensitive to unique needs within our communities. No study comes to a one-size-fits-all, universal conclusion about the best uniform or clothing.
Regardless of school policies, young people need to remember that school's primary aim is to learn. Of course, it’s not just about textbook learning; students dress differently to act out their social roles as prefects, jocks, or class clowns. But when it comes to academic achievement, a pristine dress, shiny shoes, or a freshly ironed shirt certainly puts one in the right mindset for the day!
Like the guarantee of changing seasons, you can bet on young people forging their own paths. The Korean Journal of Fashion Business (2001) highlights the resourcefulness of students who customise their school attire. Colourful shirts may be worn under school sweatshirts or blazers, skirt lengths are ever-changing, and the accessory is king. The best youth brands capitalise on cute keyrings, patches and badges that reveal something about the wearer. Need I say Ale-hop? Or Crocs, anyone?
When I look outside and see the first hint of autumnal gold in our trees, I’m reminded of the importance of youth and renewal. It’s never too late to shake up your look – it’s time for creativity, bricolage, and fun.
More reading?
Hendricks, S.H., Kelley, E.A. and Eicher, J.B., 1968. Senior girls' appearance and social acceptance.
Yoh, E.A., 2001. School Uniform: Socio-Psychological Meaning and Future Research. Journal of Fashion Business, 5(3), pp.35-48.
