A new national standard (GOST) for school uniforms has come into effect in Russia, emphasizing conservative, business-like, strict, comfortable, and beautiful attire for students. Developed by Roskachestvo, the standard applies to everyday uniforms for all schoolchildren, from first grade to graduation.

The regulation is voluntary, meaning each school decides whether to adopt it, without government control over implementation. Uniforms should be uniform in color, style, and clothing assortment, promoting a restrained and strict image.

Permitted items include blouses, shirts, vests, jackets, cardigans, jumpers, sweaters, turtlenecks, dresses, sundresses, skirts, shorts, trousers, and overalls, tailored according to children’s height and build. Symbols promoting antisocial behavior are prohibited, while school and state emblems are allowed.

Practical considerations include hardware without sharp edges and fabric criteria for durability, wrinkle resistance, and colorfastness. Psychologist Anna Leushina views regulated clothing positively, noting it distinguishes the school environment and fosters a sense of community. She connects the lack of uniforms in the 1990s and 2000s to issues with boundaries and societal conventions.

Seamstress Tatyana from a Kemerovo atelier reports no significant changes in uniform requirements this year. They continue to produce skirts, sundresses, and jackets for girls, and vests, jackets, and ties for boys, according to each school’s charter.

Parents and children have mixed reactions. Kemerovo resident Ksenia Zavyalova believes uniforms limit individuality, while her daughter dislikes the uniform vest. Fourth-grader Mark doesn’t mind uniforms if they allow for play, but wishes for more color. His mother, Elena, feels uniforms create a false sense of discipline.

Inna Tyukalova sees uniforms as reducing social inequality but limiting freedom of choice, emphasizing the need for comfortable and functional attire. Experts estimate the cost of equipping a child for school at at least 16,000 rubles and provide tips for saving money.