A growing number of Czech schools are tightening their dress codes, banning items such as crop tops, bare shoulders, and sweatpants.

The move has sparked debate among students, parents, and teachers about where to draw the line between comfort and appropriateness.

At Brno’s Sirotkova Elementary School, principal Dan Jedlička confirmed that new rules were added this year after students themselves raised the issue during the school parliament.

“We want to prepare children for their future lives. That includes learning how to dress appropriately in different situations,” he told Czech Television.

According to Jedlička, the tipping point came last year when some nine-year-olds began wearing outfits that, in his words, “crossed a reasonable line.” While the school has introduced clear limits—no midriffs, no oversized necklines, and no sweatpants—the principal emphasized that punishment is not the goal. “We won’t send children home or discipline them harshly. The idea is guidance, not sanctions,” he said.

Still, the rules have not been welcomed by everyone. Some students argue the ban is too strict. “If you’re not allowed to wear a deep neckline, that’s fine, but there should be flexibility. Straight-cut sweatpants are comfortable and shouldn’t be a problem,” said student Ema Látalová in an interview with iRozhlas.

The school has prepared a practical solution for minor dress code violations. If a child arrives in an outfit that does not comply, they are offered a T-shirt with the school’s logo to wear during the day. In cases involving inappropriate trousers or skirts, parents are contacted directly.

Schools in Zlín and Břeclav have already adopted similar measures, and others across the country are reportedly considering their own updates to student dress codes.

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