Photo courtesy of Kalki Legesse

“I love dressing in relaxed clothing, but sometimes I fall asleep in class because I’m too comfortable,” agreed both juniors James Leos (left) and Isabel Kruk (right). Despite the couple occasions Leos has fallen asleep in class, he still dresses comfortably everyday because it’s what makes him feel the most confident.

As students navigate through their school day, the choice of what to wear impacts their social and academic life.
“When I’m dressed up, I feel more confident. People listen to you more when you put in effort,” said sophomore Spencer Doll.
Some students claim that dressing to impress allows them to carry themselves with confidence as they interact with other students and teachers. When students wake up in the morning and choose their outfit, they are thinking of how they would be perceived by others. Teachers have also agreed that how you present yourself displays how ready you are for school.
“The minute you walk in the door with no effort put into your appearance, you’re halfway ready to fail,” said Nutrition and Wellness teacher Micky Hazard.
Hazard knows that an enormous amount of energy is unrealistic for a school environment, but argues that at least following hygiene tips and dressing with effort is the right path. On the other hand, some students claim that going above and beyond with their outfits allows them to go about their school day confidently.
“When I dress for success, I feel more productive that day. People tend to treat me better when I dress up nicely, but I dress for myself because I feel more motivated in a nice outfit,” said senior Evelyn Gazzola.
Although others’ opinions play a vital role in how people dress, many choose to dress fashionably in order to boost their own morale. When students wear an outfit that feels like themselves, their self-esteem is able to flourish.
“My outfit definitely affects my self-esteem, but in the end you wear what’s most comfortable to you,” said senior Gabriella Thomposon.
Whether comfort lies in the confidence a fashionable outfit brings you, or in the relief of comfortable clothing, it is up to the person to decide which best suits them. This leads many students to insist that dressing comfortably allows them to focus more on factors outside of their physical appearance.
“Wearing comfortable clothing helps me feel more relaxed and focused during classes,” said junior James Leos.
When dressing comfortably, students are able to divert their focus to their classes and relationships instead of the constant uncomfortable feeling certain formal clothes provide. Ultimately, students choose their outfits based on what speaks to them.
“In the end, what you choose to wear should always make you feel better since it is based on your own feelings,” said Thompson.