The time has come for Christmas carols, hot cocoa, and with that, comfy clothes. The end of Thanksgiving break marks the start of Comfy Clothes December commonly known as “Cozy December” for Westridge students. This tradition was born in December of 2022 when Lower and Middle School Director Dr. Zanita Kelly and former Director of Upper School Mr. Gary Baldwin made the decision to extend the week of free dress provided as part of the initiative to make school less stressful during Be Kind to Your Mind week.

Dr. Kelly explained the rationale behind the extension, “[Mr. Baldwin and I] agreed that it would be a good thing for everyone’s mental health and well-being.” Since the original extension, the appropriately named Comfy Clothes December has been a staple of the holiday season at Westridge.

As this is now the third occasion of Comfy Clothes December, Dr. Kelly confirmed students can expect the new tradition to continue. “[Comfy Clothes December] hasn’t done any harm, and people seem to really be enjoying it. We’ve decided that this is a tradition,” she said.

With the exciting news of the continuation of Comfy Clothes December, freshmen Poppy H. expressed her delight at being able to wear comfortable clothes to school every day in December. “I feel so excited. Cozy December is my favorite time of the entire year,” said Poppy.

Senior Alice C. ’25 agreed. “I’m happy that [Cozy December] can continue. It’s a great tradition,” she said.

As the temperature drops, students have several reasons for loving Comfy Clothes December, particularly enjoying the freedom of more clothing options. Many people appreciate the opportunity to express themselves more freely through clothing as well as dressing more appropriately for the winter weather. Sophomore Clara T. said, “I’m comfortable, and PJs are cute, and it makes me excited for the holidays,” she said.

Similarly, Upper School Science Teacher Dr. Ryan Skophammer, who also participates in Comfy Clothes December, appreciates the ease of dressing up in comfortable clothes. “[Comfy Clothes December] is very successful. I’ve been wearing casual fits all December,” he said. 

With the freedom to wear comfy clothes amidst the cold December weather, students can always agree to wear anything besides the uniform. Carolina A. ’28 rejects all forms of uniform. She said, “I try to stay away from the colors of the uniform because I really want to let loose.” 

Cozy December is a welcome respite during a time of final assessments pre-break. While some students are simply grateful to wear anything apart from the uniform, others are more passionate about wearing comfortable clothes. Holly N. ‘25 explained how she takes advantage of Comfy Clothes December, “I embrace Cozy December by going to my closet and wearing every single sweatshirt and pair of sweatpants I own.”