In response to the June 4 letter “Modest is hottest,” the reason the issue of immodesty “appears often in this section” is that it has been and is a problem; otherwise, people wouldn’t be constantly complaining about it. I would like to propose a real solution that would put an end to this issue: BYU should require a school uniform for all students.

Before you balk at this suggestion, allow me to present my reasoning for such an extreme measure. First, this would effectively eliminate all forms of immodesty, even what that letter’s author seems to think are harmless leggings to “get away with” wearing a shorter skirt (that wording alone should be cause for concern). As an example of how effective this would be, I point to the weight room in the Smith Fieldhouse, which until recently required patrons to wear a modest BYU T-shirt. While that policy was in place, I never saw a single incidence of an immodest shirt.

As an added benefit, the uniform could be a good source of revenue for BYU. Proceeds from standard T-shirts and pants issued by the university would alleviate many of the budget concerns caused by the economic downturn. It’s a win-win situation all around.

My high school had a uniform policy, and I can honestly say I loved it. For the meager price of a few personal options in clothing, it prevented so many problems. Yes, we already have a dress code, but it’s obviously not strict enough.

Jacob Hilton

Cedar Hills



Copyright Brigham Young University 10 Jun 2009