Ukrainian Teacher Challenges Dress Code Norms, Citing Personal Expression and Official Regulations

Kyiv, Ukraine – A Ukrainian teacher, known on social media as Tinaྀིྀི (tinakalugina), has sparked a discussion about professional appearance in educational settings by publicly addressing criticisms of her personal style. In a recent video, the teacher, who identifies herself as working in a regular school, firmly stated that her profession does not strip her of the right to dress as she pleases. "My profession does not cancel my right to look the way I want," she declared, responding to comments suggesting her attire was inappropriate for a teacher. She highlighted that official regulations from the Ministry of Education do not specify a dress code or external appearance requirements for teachers. Instead, she emphasized, the actual requirements focus on respecting dignity and preventing discrimination. Tinaྀིྀི, who is seen wearing a black sleeveless top, a choker, and a chain belt, asserted her right to wear accessories, style her hair, and use makeup. "I can wear a choker because I love jewelry. I can style my hair because I like it," she stated. She further added, "I will not hide my hair in a bun because someone decided a teacher should be modest. I will not wipe off my lipstick because you decided a teacher should be pale." She concluded by emphasizing that a teacher's strength lies not in their clothing, but in their actions and words. "I want my students to grow up brave. I want them to know: you can be smart and stylish at the same time. You can be beautiful and professional. You can be a teacher and wear a choker," she stated, advocating for self-expression and authenticity. "I have every right to be myself, and my students have the right to be themselves."