Dress Code

The TeenPact Dress Code

Why Do We Even Have Dress Code?

In order to uphold a high standard of both modesty and professionalism, we ask all TeenPact students, staff and parents to follow a dress code. We realize that our guidelines are not perfect but they are an attempt to:

Honor God by wearing clothing that is respectful of our Christian witness.
Honor our fellow believers by wearing clothing that is attractive, but modest.
Honor the professional capitol environment by wearing clothing that is sharp and appropriate.

We recognize that varying standards mixed with different backgrounds and cultures lead to diverse definitions of responsible Christian freedom when it comes to dress. Therefore, we have created a set of guidelines that we adhere to out of respect and courtesy for others. Students not abiding by these guidelines will be asked to change.

At TeenPact, our goal is to challenge young people to live with excellence in every area of life. By limiting distractions in clothing we help students focus on their relationship with God and on what they are learning. As 1 Timothy 4:12 exhorts us, we want to build a generation which sets an example in everything we do – in speech, in life, in love, in faith and in purity.

Consider the TeenPact dress code as a personal coaching course in the principles of choosing an appropriate wardrobe. Learning to dress in a way that honors God, fellow believers and a professional environment are skills you’ll take with you the rest of your life.

Please take time to read the following specifics so that your outfits are TPA (TeenPact Appropriate).

PROFESSIONAL CLOTHES (AT THE CAPITOL) - For the Ladies

We require skirts or dresses which are mid-calf in length or longer (i.e. the hemline should completely cover the knee, when sitting, crossing knees and standing.) For modesty’s sake, fabric should not be sheer or clingy. For professionalism’s sake, fabric should not be denim or "church picnic" casual. Sorry, but no pants or shorts allowed when dressing for the capitol.

We require shirts/blouses which have sleeves (no sleeveless, please!) and are not tight, sheer, low or short. Stretch, bend and lean to do a self-check; no midriff should be showing and no shape too obvious. For modesty’s sake, fabric should not be sheer or clingy. For professionalism’s sake, fabric should not be too casual, like a t-shirt.

We require professional, comfortable, dress shoes (i.e. no flip-flops or tennis shoes). Expect lots of walking!

We recommend wearing a ladies' dress blazer to help make your outfit sharp and professional. Vests, scarves and jewelry also help make "capitol clothes" fun and classy.

PROFESSIONAL CLOTHES (AT THE CAPITOL) – For the Gentlemen

We require dress pants (i.e. no jeans or cargo pants).

We require a button down, collared dress shirt with a professional tie. Sleeves should stay unrolled and buttoned.

We recommend wearing a suit jacket to ensure that your outfit is sharp and professional.

We require professional, comfortable dress shoes (i.e. no flip-flops, sandals or tennis shoes.) Expect lots of walking!

CASUAL CLOTHES (AT CAMP/EVENING SESSION) -- For the Ladies

Please dress comfortably in casual, yet modest, attire which can include jeans, t-shirts, sweaters, etc.

Unless you are layering, your shirts shouldn’t be sleeveless, sheer, tight, short or low cut. Stretch, bend and lean to do a self-check; no midriff should be showing and no shape too obvious. Add a jacket, vest or cami to make your outfit cute and TeenPact Appropriate.

Pants, skirts and shorts should not be sheer, tight or have inappropriate holes. Shorts should be long enough to be a hands-width from your knees. Skirts should completely cover the knee, when sitting, crossing knees and standing.

For any camps that involve a short walk to the bathroom, plan on bringing a sweatshirt or jacket (to cover pajamas) and shower shoes.

Bring comfortable shoes for playing Frisbee (or other sports) and hanging out at the camp together.

CASUAL CLOTHES (AT CAMP/EVENING SESSION) -- For the Gentlemen

Please dress comfortably in casual attire which includes jeans, cargo pants, t-shirts, polos, sweaters, etc.

Shirts should have sleeves and the hem should be long enough to cover your waistline.

Pants should not have inappropriate holes and should be worn high enough so that the waistline is covered by your shirt. Avoid running shorts; wear long basketball or soccer shorts instead.