A new national standard (GOST) for school uniforms is now in effect in Russia, emphasizing a conservative, business-like, and comfortable style for students. Developed by Roskachestvo, the standard applies to everyday uniforms for all schoolchildren, from first-graders to graduates, but excludes sportswear and footwear. The implementation of this standard is voluntary, allowing each school to decide whether to adopt it.

The new standards include general recommendations for color combination, style, and clothing assortment, promoting a restrained and strict image. Permitted clothing items include blouses, shirts, vests, jackets, cardigans, sweaters, jumpers, turtlenecks, dresses, sundresses, skirts, shorts, trousers, and overalls. Clothing manufacturers will adhere to standards for both boys and girls, considering children’s height and build.

While antisocial symbols and those promoting illegal behavior are prohibited, school and state emblems are allowed. Practical considerations have also been addressed, such as ensuring fittings lack sharp edges and establishing clear criteria for fabric durability, wrinkle resistance, and colorfastness.

Clinical psychologist Anna Leushina views the regulated clothing positively, noting that a business style distinguishes the school environment from informal settings and fosters a sense of community. She suggests that the absence of boundaries can lead to a lack of principle, referencing the generation of the 90s and 2000s who lacked school uniforms.

A seamstress at a Kemerovo atelier specializing in school uniforms reported no significant changes in orders since the new GOSTs were approved. The atelier continues to receive orders for skirts, sundresses, and jackets for girls, and vests, jackets, and ties for boys, with each school maintaining its specific style and cut features as outlined in its charter.

Parents and children have diverse opinions on the new standards. Some, like Ksenia Zavyalova, believe uniforms stifle individuality, while others, like Inna Tyukalova, see the benefit of standardized clothing in reducing social inequality. Mark, a fourth-grader, appreciates the comfort of his uniform but desires more color variations.

Despite differing viewpoints, experts estimate that equipping a child for school now costs at least 16,000 rubles. Experienced parents offer tips to save money without sacrificing quality, while families can choose schools with varying dress code policies based on their preferences, as GOST implementation remains advisory.