While schools and universities were as old as ancient civilizations, school uniforms were introduced at a later time mainly because those schools from civilizations that have gone by were only available for the elite and not for the general population. So, have you wondered about the origins of those school uniforms? Let’s learn their history here.
1222: The First Recorded Use of School Uniforms
The first recorded use of school uniforms was in 1222 in England, where students at this particular school were mandated to wear “cappa clausa,” a robe-like outfit. However, it wasn’t until later when the closest relative to today’s uniforms appeared.
16th Century: Origins of Modern-Day Uniforms
During the 1700s, a boarding school named Christ’s Hospital mandated uniforms, which the citizens provided. These uniforms featured blue cloaks and yellow stockings, hence earning the school the nickname “blue cloak school.”
19th Century: China Widely Adopted School Uniforms
It was in the 1800s when China widely adopted the use of uniforms. They became a symbol of modernity. Early Chinese uniforms were influenced by Western fashion that mingled with traditional Chinese styles. This inclusion of the country’s style made Chinese uniforms different from those of other nations.
The Spread of School Uniforms
Later on, school uniforms became associated with the upper class since private and preparatory academic institutions began to introduce them more to the student population. However, their style then looked formal than how student uniforms appear today.
1900s: The Use of School Uniforms Began in the United States
At the turn of the 20th century, the use of school uniforms in the United States started but was only mandated for parochial and private learning institutions.
It was also during this time when school uniforms became prevalent elsewhere, such as in Japan.
1920s: The Rise of School Uniforms in Australia
In the 1920s, or during the time of the World Wars, Australian boys were seen wearing short pants and caps to school, just like in England. The caps were not add-ons but part of the uniform’s ensemble.
After World War II in the 1940s, uniforms in Australia became a lot more casual. Today, this style has become normal in Australian schools.
1980s: American Public Schools Began to Use Uniforms
However, it wasn’t until the 1980s that public schools adopted the use of uniforms. Particularly, schools in Maryland and Washington, D.C., were the first to implement uniform policies, but they were not widespread nor compulsory yet, since they were voluntary.
Shortly after, school administrators noticed the change in the students’ attitudes and a decline in discipline-related issues after the uniform policy was enacted, so other schools also began using uniforms.
1994: Popularity of Uniforms in Public Schools
In 1994, school uniforms started to gain popularity in public schools, particularly because of their benefits in effectively implementing school policies. Research shows there was a decrease in academic-related crimes since school uniform policies were implemented.
Modern-Day Trends
Today, several students attending elementary and secondary schools in Great Britain are required to wear uniforms, as with many other parts of the globe. This modern-day tradition started as a way to give schools a sense of identity and cohesion, then give students a sense of individuality.
Aside from individuality, school uniforms were also symbols of equality that do not discriminate based on wealth or social status.
In the past several years, school uniforms have become more modern. Instead of long robes and the traditional style of a blazer and tie in thick fabrics, shirts, polo shirts, sweatshirts, and styles like the French Toast slim-fit girls’ uniform pants have become standard in plain colors.
The history of school uniforms will go on as these outfits continue to evolve in terms of style. Likewise, though there is a long history of school uniforms worldwide, various countries have various approaches. The controversies will persist as well, but schools giving up their use won’t happen soon.
Uniforms are symbols of individuality and identity. They influence how students see themselves and how they relate to their peers. However, what truly shapes a student’s identity is the consistent message they receive from their environment—one that says they’re respected, heard, and valued, not just from these uniforms.
