The fingertip rule is a rule of thumb used to ensure that clothes –specifically shorts, skirts and dresses– are the correct length. The rule states that the bottom of the clothing should reach the tips of the wearer’s fingers when their arms are by their sides. This rule is commonly used in schools and other places to promote modesty and ensure that students, employees and other visitors are dressed in an appropriate manner.
The History Of The Fingertip Rule
The fingertip rule has its origins in the public school system, which began using it in the late 19th century. It has been in use in one form or another in its current incarnation since the early 20th century. The purpose of this rule was to encourage modesty and proper dress in young people at school. While clothing styles have changed significantly over the years, the fingertip rule has remained as a benchmark for modest and appropriate dress code.
The fingertip rule is still used in many schools today, and is often seen as a way to ensure that students are dressed appropriately for the classroom. It is also used in some workplaces, as a way to ensure that employees are dressed in a professional manner. The rule is simple: clothing should not be shorter than the wearer’s fingertips when their arms are held straight down at their sides. This ensures that clothing is not too revealing, and that it is appropriate for the setting.
Why is the Fingertip Rule Important?
The main reason for having a fingertip rule is to help promote appropriate modesty among students, employees and other visitors. Having this rule in place helps ensure that clothing is not too revealing or too suggestive, and allows people to dress modestly without having to worry about embarrassment or confrontation. This rule also allows administrators and other authorities to maintain a certain level of decorum while still allowing individuals to express their own creativity and style.
The fingertip rule is also important for safety reasons. It helps to ensure that clothing is not too loose or too long, which can be a tripping hazard. Additionally, it can help to prevent clothing from getting caught in machinery or other equipment, which can be a serious safety hazard. By having a fingertip rule in place, it helps to ensure that everyone is dressed appropriately and safely.
What Clothing Is Covered By The Fingertip Rule?
The fingertip rule generally applies to shorts, skirts and dresses. This rule mandates that the bottom of the clothing must reach the tips of the wearer’s fingers when their arms are by their sides. Depending on the institution, clothing may even have to be longer than this; for instance, some schools might require skirts to reach mid-thigh or even below the knee.
How To Measure For The Fingertip Rule?
To measure for the fingertip rule, simply have the wearer stand with their arms held by their sides. Measure from their waistline, or wherever the article of clothing is intended to end, down to the tips of their fingers. If this measurement is less than the guidelines laid out by the school or institution’s dress code, then it is considered too short.
Tips For Ensuring Appropriate Length With The Fingertip Rule
When shopping for clothes that fall under this guideline, it is important to keep in mind that they may shrink after washing or wearing. To be on the safe side, it is advisable to buy slightly longer items so they will still fit after using them a few times. Additionally, it is important to measure clothing while standing; many garments look longer when laid flat and will be too short when worn if you only measure them while in this position.
Benefits Of Adhering To The Fingertip Rule
One of the primary benefits of adhering to the fingertip rule is that it helps encourage modesty and proper etiquette among youth. Following the rule also allows people to express their individuality and style without overstepping a certain boundary of decency. This can be especially important in situations like job interviews where a professional appearance is necessary.
Alternatives To The Fingertip Rule
While the fingertip rule is a good starting point for appropriate clothing, some people might feel that it is too restrictive or outdated. In these cases, other measures of “modesty” can be used such as the “knee-length” rule or the “dress-collar-length” rule. These alternatives allow people to express themselves without having to adhere strictly to one particular guideline.
Common Misconceptions About The Fingertip Rule
It is important to note that the fingertip rule does not apply to all types of clothing. While it is typically meant for skirts, shorts, and dresses, it does not typically apply to pants or other items of clothing such as sweatshirts or jackets. Additionally, some schools may have variations on this rule pertaining to different types of clothing so it is important to know what these rules are before attempting to follow them.
