Dress Code

Deerfield Academy has a proud tradition of inspiring and demanding its students to achieve their best. To that end, we ask all students and teachers to adhere to the spirit and the letter of the dress code.

The dress code establishes a standard for acceptable attire that provides room for personal expression. It acknowledges that what may be fashionable at the moment may not be acceptable class dress. While it is every student’s responsibility to dress in accordance with the dress code, it is the responsibility of each faculty member to assign one Accountability Point to a student out of dress code and to require the student to change into acceptable attire.

The Deerfield dress code sets a minimum standard for acceptable attire at various school functions, and it does provide a reasonable opportunity to dress in fashion. Everyone is expected to exercise good habits of personal grooming.

“Class Dress” must be worn by boys and girls in the following contexts:

• Classes
• Sit-down meals
• Traveling as a member of a team or group (unless in uniform)
• Academy events or functions
• Occasions designated by the Head of School or the Dean of Students

During the academic day, class dress must be worn in the academic buildings, including the library, whether or not a student has finished his or her academic obligations. At other times, including during exams, informal dress is permitted. Hats are not to be worn in academic buildings or in the Dining Hall at any time.

Class Dress – Girls

Girls’ class dress code requires two visible layers at the neckline; one of these two layers must be a blazer or sweater, and shoulders must not be exposed. Both layers must be worn, not carried. The only exception to the two-layer rule is for dresses with sleeves.

Other considerations:

• Crew neck sweaters are allowed with or without collared shirts.
• Dresses, skirts, and shorts must be of an appropriate length. (Skirts should be no higher above the knee than the width of the wearer’s hand, held flat as in a salute.)
• Revealing necklines are not permitted, nor are exposed midriffs, shoulders, or backs.
• Denim and jean material (no matter the color) are not allowed.
• Hooded tops, athletic, and work clothing (including cargo-pants) are not permitted.
• Fleece jackets may not substitute blazers or sweaters.

Class Dress – Boys

Boys’ class dress requires a sport coat, collared shirt, and tie OR a sport coat and turtleneck. Shorts may not be worn with a turtleneck. Shirts are to be tucked in. Facial hair is not permitted.

Other considerations:

• In the winter term only, a sweater may replace a sport coat when worn with a collared dress shirt and a tie; sweaters may not replace a sport coat when wearing a turtleneck.
• Denim and jean material (no matter the color) are not allowed within the dress code.
• Hooded tops, athletic, and work clothing (including cargo-pants) are not permitted.
• Fleece jackets may not substitute blazers or sweaters.