Just wondering if anyone knows boarding schools in the states with no (or minimal) dress code, except for formal situations. I really don’t want to rebuild my entire closet just to attend a school, and what I wear is a big part of my identity. As long as the school allows jeans, cargo pants, T-shirts (including band shirts), and jackets with hoods, I’m completely fine. Any recommendations are appreciated.
Tons of schools do not have dress codes, or minimal at the least, but it sounds like you need to think about why you want to go to BS. As you may be missing the bigger picture.
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I think most have some rules around what’s acceptable (no swimsuits in class, shirts and shoes required) –and many would allow the wardrobe you have described. George would be in this group.
Why not look at the IG pages of the schools you’re considering?
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First seek out schools that are good fits for you academically, socially, financially, etc. – then research the dress codes at those schools.
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You can look up dress codes in the student handbook which is usually available online. Even schools with school time dress codes allow casual dress after classes are over.
I’d guess that the majority of BSs have minimal dress codes. The number with tie/jacket codes for boys are quite few. Even the ones with some dress code (collared shirts, etc.) often let the standards slip, especially after Covid lockdowns lowered everyone’s standards.
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As others have said, there are tons of schools that fit this description. But, I invite you to reconsider your thinking on dress codes. Dress codes can be an important way to build community and respect. My kid came from a private Quaker day school that had a minimal dress code (basically, no camouflage or anything relating to violence including superheroes). Kids came to school in PJs. Among the boys, sneakers were a very important status symbol. And, girls wore sports bras as tops. Now, she is at a boarding school with a fairly strict dress code (Hill), and she really likes the dress code. She called it “an equalizer.” When everyone is wearing a blazer, no one is really trying to show off their wardrobe or their body. She also said that being dressed up helps keep her “mentally in class mode.” She also uses her musical tastes to help define herself. Her dorm room is covered in posters of her favorite bands, and as soon as the academic day is over, she is in sweatpants and a sweatshirt.
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