Italian Schools Enforce New Dress Code, Prohibit ‘Eccentric’ Attire

Rome: Italian head teachers on Wednesday distributed new dress code guidelines to schools across Italy, prohibiting “eccentric” outfits including excessively short skirts, exposed midriffs, and hats in the classroom. The new regulations also ban excessively long nails and “improbably high” wedges and platform shoes.

According to Ansa News Agency, with the start of the new academic year, school principals are once again addressing “inappropriate” attire by issuing circulars and distributing leaflets detailing the dress code restrictions. A recent survey by Skuola.net, which involved nearly 3,000 students, revealed that about 30% of students must be cautious about their clothing choices to avoid reprimands or fines.

The survey further indicated that 55% of students are strongly encouraged to dress “appropriately” for the school environment. Only 20% of students enjoy complete freedom regarding their attire. The dress code primarily affects female students, with frequent prohibitions against wearing minimal tops, tank tops, or shirts that expose shoulders and midriffs. Restrictions also include low-cut necklines, short skirts and pants, and ripped jeans.

The guidelines also extend to barring hats or hoodies during class. Some schools have issued broader directives, banning attire deemed “impolite” or likely to “distract” other students. The dress code encompasses accessories and overall appearance, with many schools prohibiting fake nails due to their perceived “danger.” Flashy makeup, overly colored hair, gaudy accessories, and excessive piercings are also discouraged, with some schools recommending long hair be tied back.

For male students, the focus is primarily on facial hair, with guidelines against long, unkempt beards or those with unusual designs. Approximately 20% of schools have incorporated one or more of these guidelines into their regulations.