What are your thoughts on this viral story? What have you observed about how parents are dressing these days? Let us know in the comment section and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog! For more, visit my corresponding blogpost dailyconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2019/04/a-dress-code-for-parents-teatime-with.html Thank you for watching! Love, Jennifer
I think that you are truly naive to think that policing parents are okay, I would like you to comment on if you are muslim and waring a traditional head scarfs. I actually think having a dress code or having uniforms for students make more sense. You point out the head scarfs but where is the line drawn. Do you want to be told what to where in other establishments. If we let this happen, we are allowing others ( companies, restaurants, parks) to tell us what to wear. If we allow this, doesn't make us different from a communist country.
Angel Jackson. SORRY MISS JACKSON "I AM FOR REAL" THERES ALWAYS BEEN DRESS CODES.DEAL WITH IT SOCIAL MEDIA.CELL PHONE CAMERAS HAVE EXPOSED THIS LATEST RATCHET FASHION CULTURE. A BONNET,PLEASE!!
@@angelleejackson you are right! Policing the people who pay these people's salary is not right! When I was a child my mother was yelled at for the clothes she wore to pick me up. The outfit? The United States army uniform. The uniform that paid the tuition of the school I went too. The principal said that it was improper attire and occupation for a woman. They had a nasty argument and I went to another school the next year. Yes, the attire could be better but too many schools use this garbage as an excuse not to teach our children. Let the teachers teach the subject and mind their own business about our personal lives. Especially about lives you know nothing about!
Fifty years later I still have a vivid memory of my Mother dressed in a simple yet beautiful sheath dress and high heels to take me to my end of year Kindergarten program. Her simple act of dressing up a bit more for my program made that day extra special. School is stressful enough, without having to deal with a parent who can't get a comb through their hair or having the ability to discern between an appropriate and inappropriate outfit.
The fact that they had to come up with a parents dress code says it all, doesn't it? I have such good memories of my mother coming to school in her burnt orange sweater, tweed skirt and orange lipstick. She was there as a 'room mother', they used to call it that. I was sooo proud. All my friends commented on how beautiful she was!
A note about the bonnets/shower caps - this has to do with ethnic hair. Often people with textured hair sleep in satin bonnets to prevent breakage and frizz of natural hair. Wearing one in public is equivalent to wearing pajamas, very publically proclaiming that you rolled out of bed and didn't get ready. (Naturally Fashionable speaks to this issue and being presentable and appropriate.)
I agree! This used to never be an issue until standards were dropped. If we look at any old pictures, this was never the case. Even pictures from civil rights movements; were people were leaving their homes for great causes; Everyone was presentable. Why can't people do that when they are taking their children to school?! In the middle east school grounds are referred to as "learning holy grounds" and that is how a place of learning should be treated.
Something that does bother me about the bonnet not being allowed is the amount of effort required to make textured hair "presentable" is so much more than for someone with sleek, straight hair. These moms have the same amount of time in the morning, why does one have to find an extra 30 minutes because the public finds a bonnet offensive? It's the same thinking that discourages people from rocking their natural hair in the workplace.
@@nd8686 please correct me if I am wrong, but can't we find cuter alternatives? Such as Turbans or even the classic silk scarves over the bonnet? May be that should be a new business idea we can start working on :)
Naomi...... how about getting up 30 minutes earlier to get ready to go to school with your child. No excuses for being unpresentable at the school and school grounds.
I actually graduated from this high school. I agree 100% with the principal. It is embarrassing for not only yourself to leave your home in such a sloppy manner but your children as well. I applaud her to attempting to change the culture of that area.
Food author Michael Pollan writes in his book Food Rules, “Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.” In this case, we might amend it to say, “ Don’t wear anything outside of your home your grandmother wouldn’t have recognized as appropriate clothing “.
Gretchen VanH I agree, though unfortunately we are not going to be able to say this any more as we are getting close to that generation of people who are dressing inappropriately. 😕
I actually live near that neighborhood in Houston, and I commend her for what she did! Thank you Carlotta Outley-Brown for challenging our community towards excellence!!!
Satin caps and bonnets are used to protect natural (ethnic) hair and styles such as braids and cornrows (this is way the elaborate styles look great day after day). But never would I actually go out in public wearing bonnets. I am presentable no matter where I am, whether it's at work, going to my child's school when he was young, and even the grocery store. It's actually sad that women have said to me, "Why are you so dressed up?" when I'm simply dressed appropriately.
"Wearing clothes" LOL!!!!!!!!!! I say that all the time. I am just wearing "actual clothes." What has happened to our society ???!!!!! Thanks Jennifer, another great video.
Bravo! If I were a principal of a school and had the opportunity to instill rules about such things I would have done the same thing. There are areas of our lives that we want to set our children up for success with and if the parents are dropping the ball, someone has to take a stand. It takes a village and this time, not just for kids but for adults who grew up and thought anything goes. I believe the biggest issue is how media glorifies the scantily clad. I can’t drive down the highway without seeing a billboard of a half naked woman. When we stop caring about what the little eyes see and little ears hear, we have definitely lost respect for ourselves and them and done both a disservice. Thank you for sharing this subject Jennifer, it was a great tea time chat🌹
Yes! I took the kids to the dermatologist and when you walk in there's this giant poster of basically a naked lady in the sheets as an advertisement for breast augmentation. My kids pointed it out. I was horrified
You’re right, it’s not about money. My grandparents are poor and have been wearing the same well-maintained clothes my entire life, but they always look nice and “dressed up,” even at home.
Even after my dad passed away and we went through many years of poverty, my mother always wore a nice dress or skirt and blouse. She drove 1 hr each way to work. She worked long hours. She had no family to help her. But, she sewed her own clothes late into the evening and weekends. She knit her own sweaters. She was British, so it was second nature. This was how everyone her generation dressed.
Tawny Tuppence my grandparents have money and yet have been wearing the same clothes my whole life. My grandpa has nice sweaters and button up shirts that have lasted for decades because they are good quality and he has taken good care of them. He always looks sharp!
I love that! My grandparents also always dress nice:) my grandma, if she’s around the house, will wear nice slacks or pants with a simple nice shirt or blouse, and she always has her hair done nicely and makeup on:) and my grandpa always wears simple khaki pants with a polo shirt. They always look presentable! As a kid I always thought they seemed “dressed up”, but now as an adult I appreciate it and it inspires me to look presentable always too, even just at home:)
I applaud the person who put that message out there for guidelines for parents. I always say that we dress up for the things that are important to us! Let’s show our students that school is important! TFS❤️
The fact that the Principal had to write these things means they all happened... rollers, pjs, and see-through leggings being worn by parents into the school 🤦🏻♀️ Once you have the mentality of “oh I’m just doing xyz... I’m “just” getting groceries... I’m “just” doing school pick up... you devalue the importance of these tasks and your own self worth in the process. Thanks for continuing to share on this topic Jennifer! 💛
I remember a quote from Rachel Ashwell- something like, "Never say, 'Oh it doesn't matter, just get the paper plates. ' Pretty soon your whole life will be, 'oh, it doesn't matter. '" That's something I try to keep in mind.
As a Houstonian, I am very glad this step was taken. We have become so casual in all aspects of life. We must teach our kids that being presentable and proper is a way of living. It is not to be a people pleasure, but it is out of self respect. As for the bonnet point; There are many cute and proper head covers that can be used, if the hair is not properly brushed!!!! I am sure that principle was pushed to her limit to the point of issuing such a letter.
I think this is such an interesting topic because it really shows where our society is headed. To get offended for being asked to dress appropriately for your children shouldn’t even be an issue. It’s so sad that people are upset that they have to be bothered to get out of their pajamas and brush their hair in the morning. It’s like they just want any excuse to not put care in to themselves.
I think the principal was perfectly right. It is sad that we have come to this place in our culture. You perfectly captured the heart of the issue when you said it's about self-respect and dignity.
Bravo! I have been shocked for years at the fact that people wear PJ’s in public. Why is that a THING? Why do we need the court system to send us a dress code along with our jury duty summons? I applaud this Principle and you.
I remember when my kids were younger I dropped them off at school and a woman who was probably in her early forties got out of the car in her bathrobe. I was in complete shock that someone would do that.
Your vlog has helped me so much! It helps me stay happy to dress every morning. I feel like CRAP if I stay in "comfy" lazy clothes all day. Getting "dressed" is a Self Care habit. I can be casual in jeans, a cotton top, and a cozy sweater but I can also confidently leave the house! Thank you for all you do. Bright Blessings.
I think the heart of the issue is that of being mindful, intentional and GRATEFUL for our body and presence on earth. When we honour ourselves from the inside out, it feels intrinsically motivating to dress well and take care of our whole self (diet, nutrition, mental health and how we treat others).
It's crazy! I can't believe it when I see people wearing some of these items in public. I wouldn't go to the mail box at the end of my driveway in my pajamas. I agree. Dress appropriately to show respect for yourself, your children, your children's principal and teachers. I wonder if people are upset because they are being held accountable for their actions?
The sad part is that our kids see how we dress and I think they define themselves by how we dress as parents. I went to my daughters Pre-School on her birthday to read a book to the class. As usual, I got dressed that morning, very presentable, in "my mom uniform" a long tunic sweater/dress, leggings, ballet slippers, jewelry and my hair was nice. My mini madame chic, 4 turning 5 year old daughter, was completely upset with how I was dressed and bluntly told me so. I was too ordinary. (Mind you, I see the other moms in their yoga pants and pajamas at drop off.) For my daughter, I changed from a presentable tunic into a nice dress and she was much happier with my appearance.
This story hit the news all the way over here in Australia, and my first response was "who all is wearing shower caps out in public? What on earth is that about?" As my mother says "Just because you can, doesn't mean you should." Definitely words to live by.
I couldn't agree with you more. I'm so surprised people fight so hard to maintain bad habits. I guess I just grew up all wanting to look nice and try to put my best foot forward. Thanks Jennifer
That made me laugh. I can’t believe what people wear out the door. I am a jeans and t-shirts person but always neat. I really enjoyed that list, it was so funny. I do agree that it should be common sense to be a little more presentable in public, especially around kids.
We want our freedoms past the point of common sense. I remember a benchmark on our report cards stating, "plays well with others". Somehow people don't know how to cooperate as a community, they want the attention as an individual. Being considerate has so many benefits. If we could just try to think about others our world would change.
We have lost it as a society. Both of my grandmothers were working class wives and mothers. One stayed home and the other did factory work. They dressed every day and wore an apron over their clothes to protect their outfits as they cooked and cleaned. Neither were upper class.. not even middle class really. I never saw them go out of the house not well put together, in simple and classy clothes. My grandfather wore a suit to every family gathering and event.. except a picnic. Then he wore a dress shirt and pants. Again... these were NOT upper crust people. But they had dignity and self worth. Now, I know I am old.. 46 😉.. but this was not that long ago, circa 1980’s! We’ve come a long way baby... I hope we can reverse course. I, for one, will not be following this abysmal trend. Keep up the good work Jennifer!
Things are just not the same as they once were. When I was young I remember my mom being voted Best Dressed Mom at my middle school assembly. I was so proud.
Hi Jennifer, I am originally from Poland but I live in England now. I still remember when I came to the UK some 12 years ago. It was my first day at work, I was having lunch in the office sitting at the window and watching people outside. I remember my own shock when I saw two young mothers walking with their buggies to a take away shop. They were wearing pyjamas and house slippers. Back at home that was literally a sign of insanity. Only mentally ill people would do that so I was horrified to see it. Fortunately most people dress really presentable here but I did read an article in the past that was about a major grocery store asking customers to not do their shopping in their pyjamas. I personally struggle with looking presentable while I am at home, especially that I work from home now but I don’t go out like that. Your last video was really helpful. Thank you for posting so often recently.
My husband is a school principal (Head Master) and I’m quite sure he would agree with this. ☺️ And I have to admit, I was a bit convicted as I showed up Wednesday in my painting clothes as I was painting and didn’t make time to change before I needed to go pick up my children. 😳 It was humbling though everyone knows at the school that our basement flooded and we’re fixing it up- it’s still a matter of taking pride in my appearance. Thanks for sharing!
I have to admit to a spell of wearing PJs on the school run. I was working late at night at the time and would go back to bed when I dropped off the kids. I didn't have to get out of the car, so no one knew. Except the time I got a puncture....
When I first heard this story on the news my impression about this dress code was different so I'm so glad you read the entire story. Most of the items on that list would be considered inappropriate to wear in most public places, let alone at school events. The principal is not asking the parents to dress up but to have standards when appearing in public at this school which to me is a good thing. Whether we like it or not we are judged on our appearance and parents are their kids first example. These parents are raising kids that are our fellow members of society. I've heard family members say that years ago people carried themselves with pride and dignity and were respectful but in today's society they feel that some of that pride and respect is lost. Let's get back to holding ourselves to a higher standard and see how that starts to affect our well being!
Oh, Jennifer! The detailed list this principal gave clearly indicates there's a big problem at this school. I worked at a large corporation as a manager, 20 years ago. 90% female department. We had these same issues even then. Periodically, the owner would give tours to potential investors. Once, during a tour, an employee bent down to pick something up. Short, flimsy mini skirt, sans underwear! 😬 I was later instructed to have a conversation with her. She looked so ashamed! I've never forgotten this terribly awkward moment. Her excuse? "We don't get paid enough for me to buy business attire." Because of this, I never hesitate to tell someone what I buy second-hand and where, when they compliment me. I'm happy to help them out bc I know income is no excuse for skimpy, tattered clothing.
"don't get paid enough" that's unacceptable. you can get thing very cheap at second hand shops and fast fashion stores. yes, buying fast fashion is not ideal but for goodness sake, buy a pair of pants and put on some underwear. did she have an excuse for not wearing any?
She probably couldnt afford the laundry and time to clean her underwear or shop for new clothes in her size. Plus, she didn't think it was a big deal because she thought no one would know she wasnt wearing undies. Also, medical care issues could've been going on... Which is a whole realm of society problems.
Wow , I am really impressed by the staff of this school!! Everything the principal wrote is true and I think the school has every right to have dress code for anyone entering the building. I hope this is adopted across the county!!
AMEN, Jennifer!!!! Not only do I see this adult attire at the schools, I see it at the grocery store, shopping malls, the library and many other public buildings. Granted, their attire will not change my own, but I often wonder what they can be thinking. I do try to be a good example for my children and grandchildren, but it often crosses my mind that, perhaps, I am just old fashioned. Thank you so much for opening this topic to discussion... Linda
Thank you Jennifer! I can't speak to the state of things in Houston, but I live in Austin, TX, and here, casual is taken to an extreme. My boys were out of high school when we moved here almost 4 years ago, but I see it all the time in restaurants, the theater, church - places where people used to get dressed up. I am pretty sure that there is nowhere here that wouldn't allow you to show up in "Daisy Dukes" and flip-flops. I'm glad that there are still people willing to have this discussion! I also think that as parents we need to show our children the importance of their education by respecting their schools in the way that we present ourselves. 💗Robin
Wow! Just wow! Kudos to this principle!! We get backlashed whenever we voice the opinion of “ old fashion” ways of thinking or living but who do I care if someone doesn’t agree with me? Nobody. I enjoy being appropriate and modest and that’s what I’ve been teaching my 6 year old girl. I want her to be beautiful as well as modest!
I've seen leggings worn in public that were so tight that they were see thru in private areas. It's so sad that this list is necessary. Decency, common sense, integrity....rapidly declining. Keep preaching Jennifer!
Thanks, Jennifer! I agree totally! We are too casual as a culture, in our dress. I would love to see people take more pride in their appearance, again.
*Shaking my head* It really is sad that the principal had to do this. Some of the items mentioned on the list were beyond inappropriate, especially as a parent dropping off a child at school! TFS this article.
I hadn’t heard about this but when I mentioned it to my husband he said he had. I’m very glad that the principal was brave enough to create this dress code for parents. I mentioned it to my teenage son and he said what bothers him at his high school is when his teachers wear inappropriate clothing like short skirts and leggings. I see parents wearing all sort of craziness. I sure hope we don’t continue traveling down this very casual road of dressing.
I was upset at first but thought about it! If we don't respect ourselves how can anyone respect us or take us seriously! Thanks for sharing!❤Blessings❤☺
I'm the odd one standing in the line to pick my daughter up at school every day. I wear skirts and shoes almost every day. It is hard to get other moms to talk to me. They turn to look me up and down and don't return my smiles or greetings.
I agree with you so much on this topic. I don’t know how people don’t get embarrassed when they go to a store in their pajamas! I’ve seen women and men do this. I have “public” clothes and when I’m doing really grubby work in the house or yard “non-public” clothes. When I finish my dirty task I get cleaned up and put on nicer clothes. Thank you for bringing this subject up!
this is fantastic “you are your child’s first teacher”. but who will be enforcing (watching parents as they walk onto the school premises). I’ve not listened to video to the end so perhaps you’ll say. Wow, I too applaud her!. In my workplace I’ve witnessed inappropriate dress. You rock Jennifer for sharing & spreading this message. It’s about being respectful to oneself first. And absolutely has nothing to do with money. I’ve upped my game as a result because of the encouragement of the 10-capsule items and caring for oneself . ❤️
As a young mother in’ the 90’s, so many mothers would “let themselves go” and stopped wearing makeup, gained weight and wore sweats all the time. They felt that since the had a husband and children that they no longer need to try. It did such a disservice to the husbands and children as well as the mothers self -esteem. Children and husbands need to be the first people to get our best selves and that then helps all of society
Thank you! As a retired teacher, we had moms come to school events in their tennis clothes or with very clingy low cut tops. This was in a Catholic school with a professional parent population.
I think you touched on a very valid point. There are certain venues that the majority of people regard as important and thus will present themselves well when visiting them. I think that a school is a place that deserves the same respect and it seems like the principal at this school is just trying to command that respect.
Yay ! Glimpses of wisdom in this lifeless society. Real life takes effort in everything we do or say ,sadly no one wants to put the effort , but this Principle made my heart smile,maybe not all is lost😉
I am in my 50's and I remember just like you've said so many times. That people used to care about their appearance when they went to events. It mattered then, it still does, but people are no longer caring. In a way it makes it seem as though Americans are depressed. Because depressed or mentally ill people just let themselves go and don't care. They can't because they don't have the energy. When parents have to be told to literally not wear their pajamas to their kid's school for events? It really does seem like a physical manifestation of society going downhill. I agree with you Jennifer, that you have to be the model for your kids. And that all of us trying to not just go with the flow downhill, but caring about some quality in life. We are a quiet revolution just by caring and doing something about it as individuals. As always I am grateful for your lovely videos.
Agreed on everything! Never stop talking about this topic, Jennifer! My European grandmother had a small capsule wardrobe, and didn't have a ton of money. She looked presentable always!
If a parent walks into school with their pajamas and a shower cap, it can be a sign they are having a hard time with life. Depression can be a widespread problem in some areas. I think the Principal might be aware of this and wants to help some of those parents; getting dressed can make you feel a lot more motivated than just sitting in your pajamas all day. I like this idea although it's probably going to be hard to enforce.
Kristin B I agree that many people do these things because they are depressed and stressed. However, if this situation is approached properly, the families can benefit. Some people have never been taught how to dress or behave...except on TV and the internet...real cultural crisis!
I struggle with depression too but I have to wash my face, comb my hair back, throw on some jeans or nice stretch pants and a decent shirt. If I don't, my child may be teased by his peers. If I don't want that to happen, I need to look at least presentable. I have to make an effort!
I’m currently IN high school, and I’ve seen so many parents wearing (or really not wearing anything at all to be honest) all the things the letter has mentioned! Honestly I’m glad they’re instilling this. It doesn’t take much to look presentable outside of your home, and it’s disrespectful to appear for school events wearing your flannel pants; it shows no respect for the work being done in school at all. Kudos to this! I love this community for speaking the truth. Also hi Jennifer!! :D
I love you Jennifer and your ability to say what needs to be said! :) Several commenters already mentioned that silk bonnets are for ethnic hair (to be worn AT NIGHT, not in public!) and my Ugandan daughter wears hers every night. :) I know I've said it many times, BUT. My Ugandan friends and neighbours ALWAYS look amazingly smart, no matter where they are going or what they are doing....AND no matter their social status. I recently watched someone close to me emerge from a house that had only blankets to cover the windows. No electric. No running water. And he was wearing a THREE PIECE SUIT AND A TIE. YEAH. That puts us entitles flannel pajama wearing Americans to shame. This principal is spot on and should receive a commendation. :) Much love, Joy
I absolutely agree! Im happy to hear that there are still people who stand up for common sense, you are one of very rare people. I hope this principal will not be kicked out 🙏🏻 because people are behaving like babies this days.
I am so much more aware of my appearance since following you! But I realized recently that I have been “dressing up” for a long time when I saw a display at the library about the groundbreaking for an addition about 22 years ago. There I was in one of the pictures in a casual dress, holding my daughter who was two!
I agree with you completely Jennifer. I think one of the places the dress code has gone downhill completely is in airports. I see people looking like they just left the house after cleaning their basement! When we started traveling by air people dressed appropriately.
Number 1 refers to 'do rags' and the women's caps that are made like shower caps which are both made of satin. Way to go, Principal! ADDITION: I have been asked why I'm always 'dressed up', because I only wear skirts! LOL ALL of my clothing is from the thrift store since you canno't find a decent skirt in a store. So, I hear what you're saying about dressing normally being seen as dressing up.
Same here! I wear jeans occasionally but feel so much better in a dress and/or skirt and a simple blouse or shirt. When I wear pants or slacks, my son wonders what is wrong. I buy 99% of my dresses and skirts from thrift stores but you wouldn't know it because of how well I put it all together!
This reminds me of the time I spent as a health room supervisor for a large school district. I would drive up to one school in particular when the parents were waiting for their children to be released at the end of the day. It was a sea of pajama bottoms, ugly sweat pants, and men in worn out white tee shirts. It was hundreds of parents who looked like they had all just gotten out of bed. The worse part was, these parents dressed the same way when they had meetings with the teacher, principal, or me. The only redeeming thing about this whole mess was at least the parents cared enough to be there for their children and I gave them credit for that.
I appreciate this so much! We can't expect others to respect us if we don't respect ourselves first. How we dress reflects how we think of ourselves. I work from home because of an illness and some days I don't look as well as others. However, I would never walk out my door without looking presentable - no matter how I feel. My kids are so aware of this. I think because they see that I put forth an effort when I do go somewhere that it matters.
This!!!! So may thoughts, so much to say!!! Here in Trinidad in both public and private schools as well as most government buildings there are signs that state the dress code, and you WILL NOT be allowed on the premises for breaking these dress codes. These signs typically include No flip flops, hats,(religious garb excluded), no sleeveless or thin strapped tops or vests, no shorts. So when I saw the title of the video, I initially thought that this was no big deal. However, the most surprising thing about the article to me, was the detailed list the principal gave, and the fact that the most ridiculous items on the list, to me, must have been there for a reason. I can't imagine going to a school or government building and seeing someone in hair rollers? A shower cap???? Kudos to that principal for making that list in these current times where, as you rightly said, you get scrutinized or can even lose your job for speaking out on issues deemed by others as 'offensive'. And Kudos to you too Jennifer, for using your platform to help shift the current paradigm of the culture. Someone needs to throw a glass of cold water on these people's faces and rouse them from their very apparent stupor, and your channel does just that.
Thanks for sharing this with us. I am challenging myself to take more care in how I dress. When I was in high school in the 1970’s, dress codes were dropped in public schools. Prior to the changes, girls wore dresses. The vice principal measured skirts and would send students home who were not dressed to code. I lived in Southern California, and I think the hippie and beach culture was a big influence. The way people dress has gone downhill since then. If you want to really be shocked, Jennifer, watch the videos of how some people shop at Walmart. Keep up the good work!💕
totally agree! I live in Pakistan and I would say we are still at a stage where it is important to dress well and appropriately when going out Thank Goodness! but I see the change in our younger generation where they are not really following the norms of the culture and are influenced by western standards. The standards have fallen low as you're discussing here and I think it's very important for developed countries to understand the responsibility they have towards the world at large because their values have an affect the world over. Great topic and hope to hear more on this topic on your channel
You are so brave for talking about this. Like you, I have been accused of being traditional or Victorian in my approach. But I wilk not wear short clothes for Church or at school. We need to bring back some of the spirit of traditional values our parents taught us.
She actually graduated from this high school and one of her dreams was to be principal of her Alma mater. She also has a phenomenal record and has won federal awards for her work at other schools that were similar to this school by bringing the overall image up to higher standards. So she actually is a perfect example of giving back to her own Alma mater.
Thank you Jennifer for saying what needs to be said. I live in Australia and I’m 55. Not particularly old by any standards but old enough to see a vast difference in the way people dress when they leave the house these days. My mum has been dead for nearly 25 years but I remember she had a small wardrobe which she shared with my father. I don’t know how many items of clothing she had but it was a small number. Maybe three or four dresses, a couple of skirts and blouses, a couple of cardigans and a coat. She never wore trousers but sometimes we would see her with curlers in her hair early in the morning. She didn’t wear a lot of makeup, maybe just some lipstick, but her hair was always brushed and she was dressed for whatever the day would bring. She also kept a couple of “good” dresses and often wore these to church or when she caught the bus in to the shops. In those days people dressed up to go out, even if they were just going to the shops. She made sure we were dressed appropriately when we went out too. She accepted me wearing jeans but I had to wear them with a nice top and shoes. People didn’t wear gym clothes, ripped jeans or anything vaguely resembling underwear in public. We didn’t have lots of money in those days but we always had food on the table and we always looked our best when we left the house. I’m not quite so vigilant about what I wear now and you might occasionally find me at the supermarket in my gym clothes after I’ve been walking my dog. I’ve always been a jeans and t-shirt girl but even in jeans I always look presentable and I still take more care in what I’m wearing when I leave the house. Old habits die hard! I’m open minded about what people wear but I really dislike it when people take no care at all in what they’re wearing. When our girls were in primary school I remember my husband complaining some of the parents at school looked like homeless people. I think the principal made a good call. Maybe we do need a dress code to remind people how to dress.
Well done to this Principal!! Standing up for the future of our children! I am honestly shocked that any parent would wear majority of those things on a school premises! I love dressing for my children. I always wear neat and tidy clothing, brush my hair, put on a little make up, even when i am staying at home all day with a 3 year old and 9 month old! I want to set an example to them that they matter, that i matter. That getting dressed every day is proof that our lives matter! That just because we aren’t leaving the house or doing fancy things, that we still matter and our lives are worth showing up for! It makes me feel better moving through my day being dressed and ready for whatever comes!
Hi Jennifer, this was the first I'd heard about this, not living in the US it is not something I'd have heard about if you hadn't shared it. It strikes me that the kind of very revealing clothing described in this list may be worn by women who have suffered sexual abuse in their early years. This often leads to exhibitionism and inappropriate clothing choices as they struggle to deal with their early trauma. Just a note before people judge others on their clothing, I would love to see some sort of positive help available to these affected women, rather than shaming them for their choices of clothes. Not sure how that would work in a school setting, maybe a "positive body attitude" class which could integrate appropriate clothing choices into the context of body image. Anyway, love your work, keep it up! Niamh
It's not body shaming. It is talking about dressing your body appropriately no matter your size. It is not the schools job to take on the parents past issues, there are other social services for that.
Was walking to my car in the McDonald’s parking lot and a man told my 4-year-old daughter she was so pretty and said that we were both gorgeous. I’ve been wearing only skirts and dresses for the past year and my daughters wear dresses, thanks to Jennifer. 🌸
Parents everyday habits have a huge impact on kids. I struggle so much with putting myself together properly everyday. I was 6 when my parents split and my mom pretty much let her self go and never made an effort again accept for special occasions. To this day I love dressing up for a purpose, but have to really force myself to put in any extra effort daily. But let's face it, it's really not that time consuming.
How far we've fallen. This was not even on the radar when I was growing up, maybe I'm showing my age (47)! I often want to whisper 'Daily Connoisseur' into people's ears...
I completely agree with the majority of these rules. The first one I object to. I have seen cancer patients wearing some of the head coverings she mentioned.
I think this is awesome!! We are setting examples for the kids. My husband is in the Marine Corp & these same dress standards apply for most places on base. Yet people still walk around in flannel pants, ripped clothing & exercise gear 🤷🏼♀️
My mom was a "lunch mommy" at my private Dutch Christian school. Those mothers would've rather DIED than wear this stuff in public. And this was the 80s!! Like... How did we fall so far??? I deeply applaud this woman!!! Good for you!
What are your thoughts on this viral story? What have you observed about how parents are dressing these days? Let us know in the comment section and your comment could be chosen as comment of the week on the blog! For more, visit my corresponding blogpost dailyconnoisseur.blogspot.com/2019/04/a-dress-code-for-parents-teatime-with.html Thank you for watching! Love, Jennifer
the Daily Connoisseur what religion requires a shower cap ( bonnet) ?
I think that you are truly naive to think that policing parents are okay, I would like you to comment on if you are muslim and waring a traditional head scarfs. I actually think having a dress code or having uniforms for students make more sense. You point out the head scarfs but where is the line drawn. Do you want to be told what to where in other establishments. If we let this happen, we are allowing others ( companies, restaurants, parks) to tell us what to wear. If we allow this, doesn't make us different from a communist country.
Angel Jackson. SORRY MISS JACKSON "I AM FOR REAL" THERES ALWAYS BEEN DRESS CODES.DEAL WITH IT
SOCIAL MEDIA.CELL PHONE CAMERAS HAVE EXPOSED THIS LATEST RATCHET FASHION CULTURE. A BONNET,PLEASE!!
SPIRIT 13 what???
@@angelleejackson you are right! Policing the people who pay these people's salary is not right! When I was a child my mother was yelled at for the clothes she wore to pick me up. The outfit? The United States army uniform. The uniform that paid the tuition of the school I went too. The principal said that it was improper attire and occupation for a woman. They had a nasty argument and I went to another school the next year. Yes, the attire could be better but too many schools use this garbage as an excuse not to teach our children. Let the teachers teach the subject and mind their own business about our personal lives. Especially about lives you know nothing about!
Fifty years later I still have a vivid memory of my Mother dressed in a simple yet beautiful sheath dress and high heels to take me to my end of year Kindergarten program. Her simple act of dressing up a bit more for my program made that day extra special. School is stressful enough, without having to deal with a parent who can't get a comb through their hair or having the ability to discern between an appropriate and inappropriate outfit.
Yes! What a great memory of your mother!
The fact that they had to come up with a parents dress code says it all, doesn't it? I have such good memories of my mother coming to school in her burnt orange sweater, tweed skirt and orange lipstick. She was there as a 'room mother', they used to call it that. I was sooo proud. All my friends commented on how beautiful she was!
Ugh. I love this community. Thank you for saying what no one else will say.
A note about the bonnets/shower caps - this has to do with ethnic hair. Often people with textured hair sleep in satin bonnets to prevent breakage and frizz of natural hair. Wearing one in public is equivalent to wearing pajamas, very publically proclaiming that you rolled out of bed and didn't get ready. (Naturally Fashionable speaks to this issue and being presentable and appropriate.)
Thanks for letting me know. I didn't understand that one
I agree! This used to never be an issue until standards were dropped. If we look at any old pictures, this was never the case. Even pictures from civil rights movements; were people were leaving their homes for great causes; Everyone was presentable. Why can't people do that when they are taking their children to school?! In the middle east school grounds are referred to as "learning holy grounds" and that is how a place of learning should be treated.
Something that does bother me about the bonnet not being allowed is the amount of effort required to make textured hair "presentable" is so much more than for someone with sleek, straight hair. These moms have the same amount of time in the morning, why does one have to find an extra 30 minutes because the public finds a bonnet offensive? It's the same thinking that discourages people from rocking their natural hair in the workplace.
@@nd8686 please correct me if I am wrong, but can't we find cuter alternatives? Such as Turbans or even the classic silk scarves over the bonnet? May be that should be a new business idea we can start working on :)
Naomi...... how about getting up 30 minutes earlier to get ready to go to school with your child. No excuses for being unpresentable at the school and school grounds.
I actually graduated from this high school. I agree 100% with the principal. It is embarrassing for not only yourself to leave your home in such a sloppy manner but your children as well. I applaud her to attempting to change the culture of that area.
Food author Michael Pollan writes in his book Food Rules, “Don’t eat anything your great-grandmother wouldn’t recognize as food.” In this case, we might amend it to say, “ Don’t wear anything outside of your home your grandmother wouldn’t have recognized as appropriate clothing “.
Gretchen VanH I agree, though unfortunately we are not going to be able to say this any more as we are getting close to that generation of people who are dressing inappropriately. 😕
Agree entirely. As Zerpdog pointed out, though, my generation (millennial) and the one after me (Gen Z), have ZERO respect for their grandparents.
Love this saying.
I actually live near that neighborhood in Houston, and I commend her for what she did! Thank you Carlotta Outley-Brown for challenging our community towards excellence!!!
As a retired teacher I applaud her. This is so needed. How can we expect our kids to have self respect if we do not as parents.
Satin caps and bonnets are used to protect natural (ethnic) hair and styles such as braids and cornrows (this is way the elaborate styles look great day after day). But never would I actually go out in public wearing bonnets. I am presentable no matter where I am, whether it's at work, going to my child's school when he was young, and even the grocery store. It's actually sad that women have said to me, "Why are you so dressed up?" when I'm simply dressed appropriately.
Agreed. I wear a satin cap to bed. But it comes off the minute my head leaves the pillow. I don't even wear it around the house.
You mean black hair just say it. Everyone has “ethnic” hair.
Daniela Pemcova maybe she meant natural hair. Not sure.
@@danielapemcova345 everyone black doesn't have the same hair type... I have black people with afro textured hair and straight hair in my family...
"Wearing clothes" LOL!!!!!!!!!! I say that all the time. I am just wearing "actual clothes." What has happened to our society ???!!!!! Thanks Jennifer, another great video.
Jane Wood so true!!!!!!!
Bravo! If I were a principal of a school and had the opportunity to instill rules about such things I would have done the same thing. There are areas of our lives that we want to set our children up for success with and if the parents are dropping the ball, someone has to take a stand. It takes a village and this time, not just for kids but for adults who grew up and thought anything goes. I believe the biggest issue is how media glorifies the scantily clad. I can’t drive down the highway without seeing a billboard of a half naked woman. When we stop caring about what the little eyes see and little ears hear, we have definitely lost respect for ourselves and them and done both a disservice. Thank you for sharing this subject Jennifer, it was a great tea time chat🌹
Yes! I took the kids to the dermatologist and when you walk in there's this giant poster of basically a naked lady in the sheets as an advertisement for breast augmentation. My kids pointed it out. I was horrified
You’re right, it’s not about money. My grandparents are poor and have been wearing the same well-maintained clothes my entire life, but they always look nice and “dressed up,” even at home.
Even after my dad passed away and we went through many years of poverty, my mother always wore a nice dress or skirt and blouse. She drove 1 hr each way to work. She worked long hours. She had no family to help her. But, she sewed her own clothes late into the evening and weekends. She knit her own sweaters. She was British, so it was second nature. This was how everyone her generation dressed.
Tawny Tuppence my grandparents have money and yet have been wearing the same clothes my whole life. My grandpa has nice sweaters and button up shirts that have lasted for decades because they are good quality and he has taken good care of them. He always looks sharp!
I love that! My grandparents also always dress nice:) my grandma, if she’s around the house, will wear nice slacks or pants with a simple nice shirt or blouse, and she always has her hair done nicely and makeup on:) and my grandpa always wears simple khaki pants with a polo shirt. They always look presentable! As a kid I always thought they seemed “dressed up”, but now as an adult I appreciate it and it inspires me to look presentable always too, even just at home:)
My toddler loves when I wear a dress he just turned two and he tells me I look "so pretty""
I applaud the person who put that message out there for guidelines for parents. I always say that we dress up for the things that are important to us! Let’s show our students that school is important! TFS❤️
Yes! School is so important!
The fact that the Principal had to write these things means they all happened... rollers, pjs, and see-through leggings being worn by parents into the school 🤦🏻♀️ Once you have the mentality of “oh I’m just doing xyz... I’m “just” getting groceries... I’m “just” doing school pick up... you devalue the importance of these tasks and your own self worth in the process. Thanks for continuing to share on this topic Jennifer! 💛
So well said and such an important point about not only devaluing one's self but also what they and others do.
That is such a good point!
I remember a quote from Rachel Ashwell- something like, "Never say, 'Oh it doesn't matter, just get the paper plates. ' Pretty soon your whole life will be, 'oh, it doesn't matter. '"
That's something I try to keep in mind.
One article actually says a sheer top and you could see the woman’s breasts, another was showing her thong above her pants
As a Houstonian, I am very glad this step was taken. We have become so casual in all aspects of life. We must teach our kids that being presentable and proper is a way of living. It is not to be a people pleasure, but it is out of self respect. As for the bonnet point; There are many cute and proper head covers that can be used, if the hair is not properly brushed!!!! I am sure that principle was pushed to her limit to the point of issuing such a letter.
Yes, it sounds like she was pushed to the limit, haha
I love this principal. Finally!! I'm a crossing guard and you wouldn't believe what parents strut in. I regularly have to bleach my eyes.
I think this is such an interesting topic because it really shows where our society is headed. To get offended for being asked to dress appropriately for your children shouldn’t even be an issue. It’s so sad that people are upset that they have to be bothered to get out of their pajamas and brush their hair in the morning. It’s like they just want any excuse to not put care in to themselves.
I think the principal was perfectly right. It is sad that we have come to this place in our culture. You perfectly captured the heart of the issue when you said it's about self-respect and dignity.
Bravo! I have been shocked for years at the fact that people wear PJ’s in public. Why is that a THING? Why do we need the court system to send us a dress code along with our jury duty summons? I applaud this Principle and you.
Wow! It's been quite some time since I've had jury duty; I don't remember receiving a dress code, but I'm not surprised.
I remember when my kids were younger I dropped them off at school and a woman who was probably in her early forties got out of the car in her bathrobe. I was in complete shock that someone would do that.
Your vlog has helped me so much! It helps me stay happy to dress every morning. I feel like CRAP if I stay in "comfy" lazy clothes all day. Getting "dressed" is a Self Care habit. I can be casual in jeans, a cotton top, and a cozy sweater but I can also confidently leave the house! Thank you for all you do. Bright Blessings.
I think the heart of the issue is that of being mindful, intentional and GRATEFUL for our body and presence on earth. When we honour ourselves from the inside out, it feels intrinsically motivating to dress well and take care of our whole self (diet, nutrition, mental health and how we treat others).
I backup this principal's decision 100% 👍. It's a matter of respect, dignity and good manners.
It's crazy! I can't believe it when I see people wearing some of these items in public. I wouldn't go to the mail box at the end of my driveway in my pajamas. I agree. Dress appropriately to show respect for yourself, your children, your children's principal and teachers. I wonder if people are upset because they are being held accountable for their actions?
Thank you for sharing this! I wish more people would be willing to talk about the idea of presenting yourself the best way you can.
The sad part is that our kids see how we dress and I think they define themselves by how we dress as parents. I went to my daughters Pre-School on her birthday to read a book to the class. As usual, I got dressed that morning, very presentable, in "my mom uniform" a long tunic sweater/dress, leggings, ballet slippers, jewelry and my hair was nice. My mini madame chic, 4 turning 5 year old daughter, was completely upset with how I was dressed and bluntly told me so. I was too ordinary. (Mind you, I see the other moms in their yoga pants and pajamas at drop off.) For my daughter, I changed from a presentable tunic into a nice dress and she was much happier with my appearance.
This story hit the news all the way over here in Australia, and my first response was "who all is wearing shower caps out in public? What on earth is that about?" As my mother says "Just because you can, doesn't mean you should." Definitely words to live by.
I couldn't agree with you more. I'm so surprised people fight so hard to maintain bad habits. I guess I just grew up all wanting to look nice and try to put my best foot forward. Thanks Jennifer
That made me laugh. I can’t believe what people wear out the door. I am a jeans and t-shirts person but always neat. I really enjoyed that list, it was so funny. I do agree that it should be common sense to be a little more presentable in public, especially around kids.
We want our freedoms past the point of common sense. I remember a benchmark on our report cards stating, "plays well with others". Somehow people don't know how to cooperate as a community, they want the attention as an individual. Being considerate has so many benefits. If we could just try to think about others our world would change.
Yes! Great comment!
We have lost it as a society. Both of my grandmothers were working class wives and mothers. One stayed home and the other did factory work. They dressed every day and wore an apron over their clothes to protect their outfits as they cooked and cleaned. Neither were upper class.. not even middle class really. I never saw them go out of the house not well put together, in simple and classy clothes. My grandfather wore a suit to every family gathering and event.. except a picnic. Then he wore a dress shirt and pants. Again... these were NOT upper crust people. But they had dignity and self worth. Now, I know I am old.. 46 😉.. but this was not that long ago, circa 1980’s! We’ve come a long way baby... I hope we can reverse course. I, for one, will not be following this abysmal trend. Keep up the good work Jennifer!
Love your comment!
Things are just not the same as they once were. When I was young I remember my mom being voted Best Dressed Mom at my middle school assembly. I was so proud.
Hi Jennifer, I am originally from Poland but I live in England now. I still remember when I came to the UK some 12 years ago. It was my first day at work, I was having lunch in the office sitting at the window and watching people outside. I remember my own shock when I saw two young mothers walking with their buggies to a take away shop. They were wearing pyjamas and house slippers. Back at home that was literally a sign of insanity. Only mentally ill people would do that so I was horrified to see it. Fortunately most people dress really presentable here but I did read an article in the past that was about a major grocery store asking customers to not do their shopping in their pyjamas. I personally struggle with looking presentable while I am at home, especially that I work from home now but I don’t go out like that. Your last video was really helpful. Thank you for posting so often recently.
Your comment made me laugh! Thank you
I have a feeling the lack of dress standards amongst some parents isn’t the root of the problem, just a reflection of it, generally speaking.
Yes!
Absolutely!
My husband is a school principal (Head Master) and I’m quite sure he would agree with this. ☺️ And I have to admit, I was a bit convicted as I showed up Wednesday in my painting clothes as I was painting and didn’t make time to change before I needed to go pick up my children. 😳 It was humbling though everyone knows at the school that our basement flooded and we’re fixing it up- it’s still a matter of taking pride in my appearance. Thanks for sharing!
I have to admit to a spell of wearing PJs on the school run. I was working late at night at the time and would go back to bed when I dropped off the kids. I didn't have to get out of the car, so no one knew. Except the time I got a puncture....
When I first heard this story on the news my impression about this dress code was different so I'm so glad you read the entire story. Most of the items on that list would be considered inappropriate to wear in most public places, let alone at school events. The principal is not asking the parents to dress up but to have standards when appearing in public at this school which to me is a good thing. Whether we like it or not we are judged on our appearance and parents are their kids first example. These parents are raising kids that are our fellow members of society. I've heard family members say that years ago people carried themselves with pride and dignity and were respectful but in today's society they feel that some of that pride and respect is lost. Let's get back to holding ourselves to a higher standard and see how that starts to affect our well being!
Oh, Jennifer! The detailed list this principal gave clearly indicates there's a big problem at this school. I worked at a large corporation as a manager, 20 years ago. 90% female department. We had these same issues even then. Periodically, the owner would give tours to potential investors. Once, during a tour, an employee bent down to pick something up. Short, flimsy mini skirt, sans underwear! 😬 I was later instructed to have a conversation with her. She looked so ashamed! I've never forgotten this terribly awkward moment. Her excuse? "We don't get paid enough for me to buy business attire." Because of this, I never hesitate to tell someone what I buy second-hand and where, when they compliment me. I'm happy to help them out bc I know income is no excuse for skimpy, tattered clothing.
"don't get paid enough" that's unacceptable. you can get thing very cheap at second hand shops and fast fashion stores. yes, buying fast fashion is not ideal but for goodness sake, buy a pair of pants and put on some underwear. did she have an excuse for not wearing any?
She probably couldnt afford the laundry and time to clean her underwear or shop for new clothes in her size. Plus, she didn't think it was a big deal because she thought no one would know she wasnt wearing undies. Also, medical care issues could've been going on... Which is a whole realm of society problems.
Wow , I am really impressed by the staff of this school!! Everything the principal wrote is true and I think the school has every right to have dress code for anyone entering the building. I hope this is adopted across the county!!
AMEN, Jennifer!!!! Not only do I see this adult attire at the schools, I see it at the grocery store, shopping malls, the library and many other public buildings. Granted, their attire will not change my own, but I often wonder what they can be thinking. I do try to be a good example for my children and grandchildren, but it often crosses my mind that, perhaps, I am just old fashioned. Thank you so much for opening this topic to discussion... Linda
Thank you Jennifer! I can't speak to the state of things in Houston, but I live in Austin, TX, and here, casual is taken to an extreme. My boys were out of high school when we moved here almost 4 years ago, but I see it all the time in restaurants, the theater, church - places where people used to get dressed up. I am pretty sure that there is nowhere here that wouldn't allow you to show up in "Daisy Dukes" and flip-flops. I'm glad that there are still people willing to have this discussion! I also think that as parents we need to show our children the importance of their education by respecting their schools in the way that we present ourselves. 💗Robin
Thank you, Robin!
Wow! Just wow! Kudos to this principle!! We get backlashed whenever we voice the opinion of “ old fashion” ways of thinking or living but who do I care if someone doesn’t agree with me? Nobody. I enjoy being appropriate and modest and that’s what I’ve been teaching my 6 year old girl. I want her to be beautiful as well as modest!
I've seen leggings worn in public that were so tight that they were see thru in private areas. It's so sad that this list is necessary. Decency, common sense, integrity....rapidly declining. Keep preaching Jennifer!
Can't believe that! In Italy we have not experienced this kind of problem... Till now! Let's hope it won't happen in the future!
Unfortunately, this has become a widespread problem in the US. Too many people here do not take pride in their appearance.
I've never seen this while i was in Korea. So yeah it's a US 21st century problem.
Thanks, Jennifer! I agree totally! We are too casual as a culture, in our dress. I would love to see people take more pride in their appearance, again.
*Shaking my head*
It really is sad that the principal had to do this. Some of the items mentioned on the list were beyond inappropriate, especially as a parent dropping off a child at school! TFS this article.
I hadn’t heard about this but when I mentioned it to my husband he said he had. I’m very glad that the principal was brave enough to create this dress code for parents. I mentioned it to my teenage son and he said what bothers him at his high school is when his teachers wear inappropriate clothing like short skirts and leggings. I see parents wearing all sort of craziness. I sure hope we don’t continue traveling down this very casual road of dressing.
I was upset at first but thought about it! If we don't respect ourselves how can anyone respect us or take us seriously! Thanks for sharing!❤Blessings❤☺
I'm the odd one standing in the line to pick my daughter up at school every day. I wear skirts and shoes almost every day. It is hard to get other moms to talk to me. They turn to look me up and down and don't return my smiles or greetings.
Jennifer, I applaud you for your wisdom, courage and grace. You are an inspiration to all of us who wholeheartedly agree with you.
I agree with you so much on this topic. I don’t know how people don’t get embarrassed when they go to a store in their pajamas! I’ve seen women and men do this. I have “public” clothes and when I’m doing really grubby work in the house or yard “non-public” clothes. When I finish my dirty task I get cleaned up and put on nicer clothes. Thank you for bringing this subject up!
this is fantastic “you are your child’s first teacher”. but who will be enforcing (watching parents as they walk onto the school premises). I’ve not listened to video to the end so perhaps you’ll say. Wow, I too applaud her!. In my workplace I’ve witnessed inappropriate dress. You rock Jennifer for sharing & spreading this message. It’s about being respectful to oneself first. And absolutely has nothing to do with money. I’ve upped my game as a result because of the encouragement of the 10-capsule items and caring for oneself . ❤️
As a young mother in’ the 90’s, so many mothers would “let themselves go” and stopped wearing makeup, gained weight and wore sweats all the time. They felt that since the had a husband and children that they no longer need to try. It did such a disservice to the husbands and children as well as the mothers self -esteem. Children and husbands need to be the first people to get our best selves and that then helps all of society
Thank you! As a retired teacher, we had moms come to school events in their tennis clothes or with very clingy low cut tops. This was in a Catholic school with a professional parent population.
I think you touched on a very valid point. There are certain venues that the majority of people regard as important and thus will present themselves well when visiting them. I think that a school is a place that deserves the same respect and it seems like the principal at this school is just trying to command that respect.
Yay ! Glimpses of wisdom in this lifeless society. Real life takes effort in everything we do or say ,sadly no one wants to put the effort , but this Principle made my heart smile,maybe not all is lost😉
I am in my 50's and I remember just like you've said so many times. That people used to care about their appearance when they went to events. It mattered then, it still does, but people are no longer caring. In a way it makes it seem as though Americans are depressed. Because depressed or mentally ill people just let themselves go and don't care. They can't because they don't have the energy. When parents have to be told to literally not wear their pajamas to their kid's school for events? It really does seem like a physical manifestation of society going downhill. I agree with you Jennifer, that you have to be the model for your kids. And that all of us trying to not just go with the flow downhill, but caring about some quality in life. We are a quiet revolution just by caring and doing something about it as individuals. As always I am grateful for your lovely videos.
Bravo to that principal. Completely agree with that what-not-to-wear-at-school list.
Agreed on everything! Never stop talking about this topic, Jennifer! My European grandmother had a small capsule wardrobe, and didn't have a ton of money. She looked presentable always!
If a parent walks into school with their pajamas and a shower cap, it can be a sign they are having a hard time with life. Depression can be a widespread problem in some areas. I think the Principal might be aware of this and wants to help some of those parents; getting dressed can make you feel a lot more motivated than just sitting in your pajamas all day. I like this idea although it's probably going to be hard to enforce.
What an excellent observation.
Kristin B I agree that many people do these things because they are depressed and stressed. However, if this situation is approached properly, the families can benefit. Some people have never been taught how to dress or behave...except on TV and the internet...real cultural crisis!
I struggle with depression too but I have to wash my face, comb my hair back, throw on some jeans or nice stretch pants and a decent shirt. If I don't, my child may be teased by his peers. If I don't want that to happen, I need to look at least presentable. I have to make an effort!
I agree with you 100%!!
I’m currently IN high school, and I’ve seen so many parents wearing (or really not wearing anything at all to be honest) all the things the letter has mentioned! Honestly I’m glad they’re instilling this. It doesn’t take much to look presentable outside of your home, and it’s disrespectful to appear for school events wearing your flannel pants; it shows no respect for the work being done in school at all. Kudos to this! I love this community for speaking the truth. Also hi Jennifer!! :D
Hi Elizabeth! It was nice to hear from a student's perspective!
I love you Jennifer and your ability to say what needs to be said! :) Several commenters already mentioned that silk bonnets are for ethnic hair (to be worn AT NIGHT, not in public!) and my Ugandan daughter wears hers every night. :) I know I've said it many times, BUT. My Ugandan friends and neighbours ALWAYS look amazingly smart, no matter where they are going or what they are doing....AND no matter their social status. I recently watched someone close to me emerge from a house that had only blankets to cover the windows. No electric. No running water. And he was wearing a THREE PIECE SUIT AND A TIE. YEAH. That puts us entitles flannel pajama wearing Americans to shame. This principal is spot on and should receive a commendation. :) Much love, Joy
Oh my goodness, Joy. Yes!! Thank you for sharing this! I totally agree. Much love! xx
I am so glad you addressed this. I agree with you and the principle. People are way too casual these days.
I absolutely agree! Im happy to hear that there are still people who stand up for common sense, you are one of very rare people. I hope this principal will not be kicked out 🙏🏻 because people are behaving like babies this days.
I am so much more aware of my appearance since following you! But I realized recently that I have been “dressing up” for a long time when I saw a display at the library about the groundbreaking for an addition about 22 years ago. There I was in one of the pictures in a casual dress, holding my daughter who was two!
I agree with you completely Jennifer. I think one of the places the dress code has gone downhill completely is in airports. I see people looking like they just left the house after cleaning their basement! When we started traveling by air people dressed appropriately.
Kathy Briscoe and women would wear a corsage if they were flying on a special trip. It was lovely to see.
Number 1 refers to 'do rags' and the women's caps that are made like shower caps which are both made of satin. Way to go, Principal!
ADDITION:
I have been asked why I'm always 'dressed up', because I only wear skirts! LOL ALL of my clothing is from the thrift store since you canno't find a decent skirt in a store. So, I hear what you're saying about dressing normally being seen as dressing up.
Liora Jimenez I, too, only wear dresses and often get the same comment. I like to think I’m raising the wardrobe bar.
Same here! I wear jeans occasionally but feel so much better in a dress and/or skirt and a simple blouse or shirt. When I wear pants or slacks, my son wonders what is wrong. I buy 99% of my dresses and skirts from thrift stores but you wouldn't know it because of how well I put it all together!
Me too, Liora. I wear dresses everyday and I have often posted on this channel that I shop at thrift stores, Ebay, and consignment stores.
This was great! Thank you Jennifer. It is sad that we have come this far as a nation that a dress code for parents is even needed. Blessings...
YES! YES! and YES! I totally love what this woman is doing!
This reminds me of the time I spent as a health room supervisor for a large school district. I would drive up to one school in particular when the parents were waiting for their children to be released at the end of the day. It was a sea of pajama bottoms, ugly sweat pants, and men in worn out white tee shirts. It was hundreds of parents who looked like they had all just gotten out of bed. The worse part was, these parents dressed the same way when they had meetings with the teacher, principal, or me. The only redeeming thing about this whole mess was at least the parents cared enough to be there for their children and I gave them credit for that.
Kudos to this education professional! Wouldn't it be wonderful if other schools followed suit? Imagine the positive ripple effect this could inspire!
I appreciate this so much! We can't expect others to respect us if we don't respect ourselves first. How we dress reflects how we think of ourselves. I work from home because of an illness and some days I don't look as well as others. However, I would never walk out my door without looking presentable - no matter how I feel. My kids are so aware of this. I think because they see that I put forth an effort when I do go somewhere that it matters.
It is my understanding that she has implemented these actions at other schools she’s been in charge of with outstanding results.
This!!!! So may thoughts, so much to say!!! Here in Trinidad in both public and private schools as well as most government buildings there are signs that state the dress code, and you WILL NOT be allowed on the premises for breaking these dress codes. These signs typically include No flip flops, hats,(religious garb excluded), no sleeveless or thin strapped tops or vests, no shorts. So when I saw the title of the video, I initially thought that this was no big deal. However, the most surprising thing about the article to me, was the detailed list the principal gave, and the fact that the most ridiculous items on the list, to me, must have been there for a reason. I can't imagine going to a school or government building and seeing someone in hair rollers? A shower cap???? Kudos to that principal for making that list in these current times where, as you rightly said, you get scrutinized or can even lose your job for speaking out on issues deemed by others as 'offensive'. And Kudos to you too Jennifer, for using your platform to help shift the current paradigm of the culture. Someone needs to throw a glass of cold water on these people's faces and rouse them from their very apparent stupor, and your channel does just that.
Thank you, Patrice! Trinidad sounds amazing. I'd love to visit one day.
@@TheDailyConnoisseur We'd love to have you!!!!
Thanks for sharing this with us. I am challenging myself to take more care in how I dress. When I was in high school in the 1970’s, dress codes were dropped in public schools. Prior to the changes, girls wore dresses. The vice principal measured skirts and would send students home who were not dressed to code. I lived in Southern California, and I think the hippie and beach culture was a big influence. The way people dress has gone downhill since then. If you want to really be shocked, Jennifer, watch the videos of how some people shop at Walmart. Keep up the good work!💕
I agree with the dress code. Even though the principals get-up choice is flamboyant.
totally agree! I live in Pakistan and I would say we are still at a stage where it is important to dress well and appropriately when going out Thank Goodness! but I see the change in our younger generation where they are not really following the norms of the culture and are influenced by western standards. The standards have fallen low as you're discussing here and I think it's very important for developed countries to understand the responsibility they have towards the world at large because their values have an affect the world over. Great topic and hope to hear more on this topic on your channel
100% in agreement with that principal!
I agree completely! We are the adults and need to be good role models!
Your reading of the list seemed like a comedy, but knowing it was real was horrifying! 🙈
You are so brave for talking about this. Like you, I have been accused of being traditional or Victorian in my approach. But I wilk not wear short clothes for Church or at school. We need to bring back some of the spirit of traditional values our parents taught us.
She actually graduated from this high school and one of her dreams was to be principal of her Alma mater. She also has a phenomenal record and has won federal awards for her work at other schools that were similar to this school by bringing the overall image up to higher standards. So she actually is a perfect example of giving back to her own Alma mater.
Thank you Jennifer for saying what needs to be said. I live in Australia and I’m 55. Not particularly old by any standards but old enough to see a vast difference in the way people dress when they leave the house these days. My mum has been dead for nearly 25 years but I remember she had a small wardrobe which she shared with my father. I don’t know how many items of clothing she had but it was a small number. Maybe three or four dresses, a couple of skirts and blouses, a couple of cardigans and a coat. She never wore trousers but sometimes we would see her with curlers in her hair early in the morning. She didn’t wear a lot of makeup, maybe just some lipstick, but her hair was always brushed and she was dressed for whatever the day would bring. She also kept a couple of “good” dresses and often wore these to church or when she caught the bus in to the shops. In those days people dressed up to go out, even if they were just going to the shops. She made sure we were dressed appropriately when we went out too. She accepted me wearing jeans but I had to wear them with a nice top and shoes. People didn’t wear gym clothes, ripped jeans or anything vaguely resembling underwear in public. We didn’t have lots of money in those days but we always had food on the table and we always looked our best when we left the house. I’m not quite so vigilant about what I wear now and you might occasionally find me at the supermarket in my gym clothes after I’ve been walking my dog. I’ve always been a jeans and t-shirt girl but even in jeans I always look presentable and I still take more care in what I’m wearing when I leave the house. Old habits die hard!
I’m open minded about what people wear but I really dislike it when people take no care at all in what they’re wearing. When our girls were in primary school I remember my husband complaining some of the parents at school looked like homeless people. I think the principal made a good call. Maybe we do need a dress code to remind people how to dress.
That's a great school principle!! Kudos to her.
Well done to this Principal!! Standing up for the future of our children! I am honestly shocked that any parent would wear majority of those things on a school premises! I love dressing for my children. I always wear neat and tidy clothing, brush my hair, put on a little make up, even when i am staying at home all day with a 3 year old and 9 month old! I want to set an example to them that they matter, that i matter. That getting dressed every day is proof that our lives matter! That just because we aren’t leaving the house or doing fancy things, that we still matter and our lives are worth showing up for! It makes me feel better moving through my day being dressed and ready for whatever comes!
Our society needs to get back to having self respect! It does not take much time to dress in a respectful manner! You are so right!
Amen Jennifer! Love this principal!
Hi Jennifer, this was the first I'd heard about this, not living in the US it is not something I'd have heard about if you hadn't shared it. It strikes me that the kind of very revealing clothing described in this list may be worn by women who have suffered sexual abuse in their early years. This often leads to exhibitionism and inappropriate clothing choices as they struggle to deal with their early trauma. Just a note before people judge others on their clothing, I would love to see some sort of positive help available to these affected women, rather than shaming them for their choices of clothes. Not sure how that would work in a school setting, maybe a "positive body attitude" class which could integrate appropriate clothing choices into the context of body image. Anyway, love your work, keep it up! Niamh
It's not body shaming. It is talking about dressing your body appropriately no matter your size. It is not the schools job to take on the parents past issues, there are other social services for that.
Was walking to my car in the McDonald’s parking lot and a man told my 4-year-old daughter she was so pretty and said that we were both gorgeous. I’ve been wearing only skirts and dresses for the past year and my daughters wear dresses, thanks to Jennifer. 🌸
Parents everyday habits have a huge impact on kids. I struggle so much with putting myself together properly everyday. I was 6 when my parents split and my mom pretty much let her self go and never made an effort again accept for special occasions. To this day I love dressing up for a purpose, but have to really force myself to put in any extra effort daily. But let's face it, it's really not that time consuming.
How far we've fallen. This was not even on the radar when I was growing up, maybe I'm showing my age (47)! I often want to whisper 'Daily Connoisseur' into people's ears...
I'm all for modest dressing. Well done to the school principal that did this!
I completely agree with the majority of these rules. The first one I object to. I have seen cancer patients wearing some of the head coverings she mentioned.
God bless Texas!
I think this is awesome!! We are setting examples for the kids. My husband is in the Marine Corp & these same dress standards apply for most places on base. Yet people still walk around in flannel pants, ripped clothing & exercise gear 🤷🏼♀️
Love the bold move by this school!!
My mom was a "lunch mommy" at my private Dutch Christian school. Those mothers would've rather DIED than wear this stuff in public. And this was the 80s!! Like... How did we fall so far???
I deeply applaud this woman!!! Good for you!