​Second Layer Rule: Let’s Talk About It

By Aniela Apteker ’24

This spring, classroom dress was reintroduced after a brief winter term hiatus. Consequently, we began to hear the phrases “second layer” and “I was dress coded” a bit more often, re-erupting controversy. The rule is one of those things that you either love or hate; most of us hate it, and I have yet to meet someone who loves it. While the rule was instituted to add a layer of professionalism to our school outfits, unfortunately, this coincides with an extra layer of discomfort.

An interview with Nora Rodgers ’24 sheds some light on students' perspectives. Nora claims that she “Can't wear a sweater and jeans. Some days it's too hot to wear a sweater, jeans, and jacket, and others it's too cold to wear a skirt and sweater.”  

Essentially, there is not a perfect in-between outfit option for the transitional times of the year. When asked if she would get rid of this clause in the dress code section of the W book, Nora didn't hesitate to say, “Yes!”

Here on Williams Hill, the weather varies; it is unpredictable and changes throughout the day. The second layer rule results in discomfort, unhealthy stress, and unnecessary reports when students try to dress best for the weather and their style.

So, should the dress code, specifically the second layer rule, be revisited?