Fashion is often on the list of top five things high school students talk about. Sometime in your high school life, you will have to face the dreaded decision: sweats or dress up? Although many will try to fight the fact that wearing sweatpants and a sweatshirt to school will make you look like a bum, there is no real reasons to not wear sweatpants.

Now, I do not condone the wearing of “Mountain Dew” printed pajama pants to school. That’s just tacky and look like you’ve just rolled out of bed. Sweats are a comfortable and appropriate alternative to wearing jeans or formal attire.

Admit it, we’ve all had one of those days where we cannot bear the thought of wearing pants with a zipper, so we pull out a pair of our comfiest sweatpants and sweatshirt. There is nothing wrong with wearing sweats and feeling comfortable throughout the day.

Many students are in agreement that wearing sweats to school is a good thing. Haylie Clement wears sweats to school often, noting that she feels confident and relaxed throughout the school day. “When I’m comfortable, I feel great,” says Clement.

Wearing sweats also lowers the risk of receiving a dress code violation. Student Lauren McKay feels that wearing sweats are within the requirements of the dress code. “If you dress up, you’re more likely to get a dress code violation in comparison to wearing sweats. Plus, sweat shirts and sweat pants are generally cheaper than a dress or skirt and blouse,” says McKay. Clement also commented on the topic adding, “I know that I won’t have to worry if my skirt is too short or if my shirt is too low.”

Here at Joliet West, many students walk the halls in their favorite spirit wear. Not only does this show school spirit, but students do not have to worry about feeling uncomfortable during class.   Student athlete Danielle Uphoff wears her favorite badminton apparel to school every week and feels comfortable with her appearance. “I think it is important to show school spirit. One way I show my tiger pride is through my clothes.” She adds, “Why not show school spirit and feel comfortable?”

Taking advantage of looking and feeling comfortable to school is beneficiary to the students of Joliet West. So let loose and break out those favorite sweatpants of yours, you know you want to.