Advent Dress Program
FAQs

Program Overview

  • The Advent Dress Program helps create a unified appearance that reflects Advent's values. It simplifies clothing choices, promotes a sense of belonging and community pride!

  • We are committed to making decisions that reflect the goals and values in our new strategic vision. Our vision statement is "to be the beacon of excellence in teaching, learning, and belonging in the heart of downtown Birmingham." The Advent Dress Program aligns with this vision by creating a recognizable presence in the community. As our students venture beyond the school to expand their learning in Birmingham and beyond, our new Advent Dress Program will help establish a strong, unified identity that enhances community connections and promotes pride in our school. This cohesive look will also foster a sense of belonging among students, reinforcing the values we hold dear.

  • While the Advent Dress Program will be required starting in August 2025, our official school store will open in January 2025, allowing families to begin purchasing items. You may start using these pieces as soon as you acquire them.

  • We offer a variety of styles to suit different preferences, including pants, shorts, skirts, skorts, and jumpers. Options include performance fabrics, elastic waistbands, and different cuts to ensure flexibility and comfort. For tops, there are multiple fits of polos, oxfords, and peter pan collar shirts to accommodate all body types.

  • Bottoms are available in khaki, navy, and plaid. Tops for all grades are available in white and navy, with gray becoming an option starting in 4th grade.

  • The number of sets is entirely up to your family’s needs. For those doing laundry regularly, two sets may be sufficient, but many families choose to purchase 3-5 tops and bottoms for added convenience.

  • While we love our school colors, finding reliable fabric in purple that met our quality and consistency standards was a challenge. We prioritized offering colors that are versatile and comfortable for students while still reflecting Advent’s values.

  • We chose Global School Wear (School Uniforms by Tommy Hilfiger) for their commitment to quality, durability, and a wide range of style options that cater to students’ needs. Their online store makes it easy for families to purchase items, and their selection ensures that students can find comfortable and well-fitting pieces that align with our Advent Dress Program. We believe Tommy Hilfiger provides the reliability and consistency we want for our students, while offering flexibility in styles and fits.

  • Yes, each student is required to have at least two polos with our school logo purchased from the Tommy Hilfiger store as part of the Advent Dress Program. Other items, such as button-down shirts, bottoms, or outerwear, can be chosen from the approved options and do not require logos.

  • No, plaid skirts, skorts, and jumpers are optional. Students can choose from khaki or navy bottoms if they prefer.

  • There is no specific footwear requirement. We only ask that shoes be safe and secure for active play and PE. Sneakers, loafers, and other closed-toe shoes are all acceptable options.

  • Yes, outerwear and other Advent-branded items from previous years, such as non-hooded sweatshirts or fleeces, may still be worn as long as they align with the current guidelines. These items are welcome if they still fit and are in good condition.

  • Absolutely. Purple remains Advent’s spirit color, and students can wear spirit gear during athletic events and designated school spirit days. We’ll continue offering spirit wear for both students and adults.

  • Yes! The purple field trip shirts will still be available, and teachers will notify families when they are required. For more formal outings, such as a visit to the ballet or a museum, students may be asked to wear their regular Advent Dress items.

  • Yes, students are welcome to express their individuality through small accessories like jewelry, hair accessories, and socks, as long as these items do not distract from the overall Advent Dress Program guidelines. We encourage students to embrace their personal style in ways that complement the program.

Dress Code & Guidelines

Cost & Purchasing

  • Short-sleeve polos with the Advent logo are around $25. Additional items, such as long-sleeve shirts, skirts, and pants, generally range from $25 to $35, depending on the style and fabric.

  • To ensure consistency in quality, fit, and appearance, we strongly encourage families to purchase from the official Tommy Hilfiger store. However, during the first year of the program, we understand that some families may already have items that match the Advent Dress guidelines from previous years. While we prefer all families to transition to the new Advent Dress collection, students may wear these existing pieces during the 2025-2026 school year, provided they meet the new style and color guidelines. Over time, we believe families will appreciate the ease and consistency of purchasing from the official store.

  • The embroidered school logo is an essential part of the Advent Dress Program, helping to create a unified and consistent look that reflects our community's values. While the logo is required on specific items, the additional cost covers the high-quality embroidery and ensures durability, aligned with our commitment to providing well-made and long-lasting clothing for our students.

Community Support Programs

  • The Advent Dress Exchange is a community-driven initiative allowing families to buy, sell, or trade gently used Advent Dress items. This exchange will be managed through a private Facebook group, where parents can easily connect with one another to source Advent Dress pieces.

    Click the button below to request to join the Advent Dress Exchange Facebook Group.

  • To help families transition to the new program, we offer an Advent Dress Credit. This credit is designed to offer flexibility for families who need assistance in purchasing the required items. If you’re interested in this program, reach out to us to discuss how we can support your family.

    To learn more about the Advent Dress Credit, please click on the button at the bottom of the page.

Special Considerations

  • We understand that some students may have unique needs, whether related to sensory sensitivities, comfort, or fit. If your child requires special accommodations, please reach out to us directly. We are committed to working with families to ensure that every student feels comfortable and confident while adhering to the Advent Dress Program.

  • As we begin the program, students are welcome to wear Advent Dress items from previous years, as long as they meet the updated guidelines. If you’re unsure, feel free to contact us for clarification.

  • You can purchase replacements through the school store or find items via the Advent Dress Exchange. We highly recommend labeling all Advent Dress pieces to avoid loss.

  • Yes, we’ll continue to offer dress-down or themed days throughout the year, allowing students to wear non-Advent Dress clothing for special events or celebrations.

  • For certain events, such as concerts or formal outings, students may be required to wear specific Advent Dress items. We will provide guidance ahead of time to ensure families are prepared for these occasions.