Dress codes are something that I have thought about often in the past, but even more so recently since the start of a new school year has prompted many discussions with my daughter…
THE STORY
…Dress codes (particularly in schools) have made the news from time to time over the last few years and the conversations surrounding them can sometimes become contentious due to the highly personal nature of how we choose to dress and express our individuality.
Sometimes I find it difficult to choose a side on this particular topic. You see, my entire belief system in regard to personal style is built on the premise that we should each wear whatever makes us happy; there are no rules in regard to fashion. In light of that belief, a dress code i.e. fashion rules, is at first glance a direct assault on our individuality; our freedom of personal expression through fashion if you will. A dress code is telling us what is appropriate to wear. A dress code takes away our right to choose what is appropriate for ourselves. I believe that is an accurate assessment, BUT on the other hand I also believe that in specific situations appropriate is necessary.
What situations? In my mind at least, I feel that appropriate is necessary at work, school, church, funerals, weddings and certain other social events. These are settings in which our clothing choices should not be unfettered for a number of reasons; respect for others, respect for ourselves, tradition, and the fact that without guidelines in place some people unfortunately lack the judgement to realize there are definitely scenarios where others should not be subjected to your ass hanging out of a pair of booty shorts.
If you doubt my lack of judgement argument here’s an example for you. Last year we loosened up the dress code at the middle and high school. Nothing crazy mind you, but the kids were permitted to wear ripped jeans, leggings and yoga pants. Can you guess what ended up happening? Kids by definition lack good judgement so we ended up with a daily battle in regard to ripped jeans with rips in spots that were putting all manner of private bits on display. “But we’re allowed to wear ripped jeans” they would argue. And don’t get me started on the leggings and yoga pants; some of them were damn near pornographic and if an adult addressed it of course we’d hear “But we’re allowed to wear leggings…” So yes, unfortunately rules are necessary.
I personally do not feel comfortable with my ass (or any other body part for that matter) hanging out ever, but if you do, I say absolutely go for it…on your own time…not at work, not at school and God forbid, not at a funeral. I am 150% for wearing what you love, but I’m also 150% for doing what is right, what is, I daresay, appropriate.
THE OUTFIT
I loved these cropped palazzo pants the minute that I got them from Free People a few years back. They are just so easy breezy and comfortable to wear when it’s scorching hot outside. They are pretty much the only pants that I own that are wearable in the heat. And they’re pink, so there’s that.
Since this was just a casual running errands and getting a pedicure with my bestie outfit, I went with a cropped graphic tee and my trusty Birks. On a side note, these pants are also perfect to wear when getting a pedi because they’re so loose they easily slide up and out of the way.
As I’ve mentioned before, a graphic tee has to resonate with me in some way for it to land a spot in my collection. I found this particular tee at Forever 21 years ago and had to have it. I feel like the reason I love this one is pretty obvious. “Different is beautiful”…it doesn’t get much more accurate than that, does it?
THE TIP
Everyone can wear a crop top. Yes. Everyone. This is an easy way to do it; consider it styling a crop top for beginners. Simply pair it with high-waisted pants or a high-waisted skirt and you’ve got the crop top vibe minus the skin.
THE LINK UPS
Check out the weekly link ups I participate in for even more fashion and style ideas…
Pants: Free People (Similar); Tee: Forever 21 (Similar); Sandals: Birkenstock (Similar); Belt: Amazon (Similar)
