In Ontario, school uniforms occur in the Catholic school system and in private schools. Public schools have dress codes. The Toronto Catholic District School Board calls this a "Uniform Dress Code" and "Appropriate Dress Code". It is a navy and white combination. Their proposed benefits of the dress code:
reflects the mission of the Board, which includes providing a safe and welcoming learning environment that is an example of Catholic community and sense of belonging in all our schools
endorses and supports our commitment as visible role models of Gospel values and Catholic doctrines, teachings, and integration of Catholic beliefs into the total learning experience
contributes to providing a learning and working environment that is respectful of the needs and well-being of all individuals
These benefits look standard in the articles I surveyed. There don't seem to be measurable differences, but definitely perceived differences in wearing uniforms. An article on the helpful professor website had many pros and cons. The article is here. Moreover, there are countries where mandatory school uniforms are common - for example, Japan and Australia.
It makes me wonder if these same countries have more dress codes and uniforms in their adult workplaces as well.
In general, there are lots of industries and companies with standard dress, uniforms and ceremonial dress. I assume these are inherited with the evolution of society - particularly around the military and police. But also think of health care and medical professions. And of course, sports teams. (That one seems practical to me to be able to tell which soccer team member is doing what). But lots of industries have uniform dress codes for their employees to be identified - particularly in public facing work.
We are in a time of personal appearance freedom where dress codes in everyday activities have fallen away. I wonder what the path ahead is for uniform dress.
I found these pictures of sayings from Gregory Alan Elliott - one of Toronto's experimental artists. They are from around 2010. He's still active and his website is HERE. I doubt if Gregory would be wearing a uniform.
