The dress code is based on the theory that learning to use socially acceptable manners and selecting attire appropriate to specific occasions and activities are critical factors in the total educational process. Understanding and employing these behaviors not only improves the quality of one's life, but also contributes to optimum morale, as well as embellishes the overall campus image. They also play a major role in instilling a sense of integrity and an appreciation for values and ethics.

The continuous demonstration of appropriate manners and dress insures that Hampton University students meet the very minimum standards of quality achievement in the social, physical, moral and educational aspects of their lives - essential areas of development necessary for propelling students toward successful careers.

Students will be denied admission to various functions if their manner of dress is inappropriate. On this premise students at Hampton University are expected to dress neatly at all times. The following are examples of appropriate dress for various occasions:

1. Classroom, Cafeteria, Student Union and University offices - neat, modest, casual or dressy attire.
2. Formal programs in Ogden Hall, the Convocation Center, the Little Theater and the Memorial Chapel - business or dressy attire.
3. Interviews - business attire.
4. Social/Recreational activities, Residence hall lounges (during visitation hours) - modest, casual or dressy attire.
5. Balls, Galas, and Cabarets - formal, semi-formal and dressy respectively.

Students will be denied admission to various functions if their manner of dress is inappropriate.

Examples of inappropriate dress and/or appearance include but are not limited to:

1. Do-rags, stocking caps, skullcaps and bandanas are prohibited at all times on the campus of Hampton University (except in the privacy of the student's living quarters).
2. Head coverings and hoods for men in any building.
3. Baseball caps and hoods for women in any building.
1. This policy item does not apply to headgear considered as a part of religious or cultural dress.
4. Midriffs or halters, mesh, netted shirts, tube tops or cutoff tee shirts in classrooms, cafeteria, Student Center, and offices;
5. Bare feet;
6. Short shorts;
7. Shorts, all types of jeans at programs dictating professional or formal attire, such as Musical Arts, Fall Convocation, Founder's Day, and Commencement;
8. Clothing with derogatory, offensive and/or lewd messages either in words or pictures;
9. Men's undershirts of any color worn outside of the private living quarters of the residence halls. However, sports jerseys may be worn over a conventional tee-shirt.

Procedures for Cultural or Religious Head Coverings

1. Students seeking approval to wear headgear as an expression or religious or cultural dress may make a written request for a review through the Office of the Chaplain.
2. The Chaplain will forward his recommendation to the the Dean of Students for final approval.
3. Students that are approved will then have their new ID card picture taken by University Police with the headgear being worn.

All administrative, faculty and support staff members will be expected to monitor student behavior applicable to this dress code and report any such disregard or violations to the Offices of the Dean of Men, or Dean of Women for the attention of the Dean of Students.