LIPSTICK FOR SIXTH-FORM CASHMERE GIRLS

Press, Volume C, Issue 29679, 24 November 1961, Page 12

LIPSTICK FOR SIXTH-FORM CASHMERE GIRLS

“Sixth-form girls may wear lipstick in good taste.” This innovation at the Cashmere High School, believed to be unique in New Zealand as a general concession to senior classes, has been tried this term with such complete absence of abuse that the board of governors will be asked to decide whether it should become a school rule for older girls.

A deviation from school uniform is a prerequisite to wearing lipstick. Sixth-form g;irls may wear pleated grey skirts of any pattern and. if they choose these, they may wear lipstick. Their informal uniform is then grey skirt and the usual school blouse with maroon cardigan or blazer. This distinguishes them from lower-form girls who wear maroon gym frocks and mSy not wear lipstick. School View "Our viewpoint in this matter is that sixth-form girls of about 17 years of age are mature; but. while they are advancing their schooling to higher levels, other girls who have left are free from many restraints.” said the headmaster (Mr T. H. McCombs). “As someone else put it:

‘Solid sixth-form girls are treated as kids and kids who have left school are treated as adults.’ "Some older girls feel this keenly.” Mr McCombs said. “We therefore made a trial concession this term.” The results were surprising and gratifying in every respect. Mr McCombs said. In the first place, not all girls had grey pleated skirts and there had been no rust) to change over. Few made special purchases. That in turn limited the number who qualified to wear lipstick. Good Taste "Those who are wearing lipstick are wearing it with good taste,” said Mr McCombs. "They have used commendable restraint and their appearance Is good. They have appreciated our gesture. “On the other hand, there are other senior girls not

• wearing lipstick and they do ) not feel out of line.” I Asked whether the innovation was a result of his visit s to the United States, where . most high school girls wear i lipstick, Mr McCombs gave an emphatic denial. “Our • staff has had this in mind for ’ some time,” he said. The . lack of uniform in American > schools had not impressed I him. “No uniform, more > often than not. means sloppy • dress,” he said. i Mr McCombs said that, so > far as he knew, Cashmere was the only New Zealand school to make this innovation for senior girls. In ; Huntly he understood girl i prefects could wear lipstick . but not others. I Some senior mistresses of I other schools consulted last . evening were not willing to ■ comment, but one said the Cashmere move “might put I us in a spot when our girls : get to know of it.”