Well.. I grew up wearing a uniform in school... I turned out to be a very unique individual... & I don't feel oppressed because I had to wear a uniform at most of my jobs..
At my current job, I dress how I will, because I made my own way in life..
Wearing a uniform is not being a conformist.. It's a tool to help one focus on what they need to do.. Kids need to go to school & learn.. Poeple need to go to work & pay their bills.. Work & school are not places to show off your latest outfit.. If one needs specific clothing to express who they are, instead of just showing off their unique personality, then I think that's pretty lame.
Don't get Me wrong.. I do agree that people should have some leeway with their style.. Hair, jewelery, makeup ect..
They take it a little far with making kids have to have certain hair cuts, & boys not being able to have piercings 'n' shit like that..
My son wears a uniform.. & He also has dreadlocks down to his ass... I have never cut his hair.. He is in charge of making decisions on how he looks, what spiritual path he chooses, and what he wills to do with his life..
I am however in charge of giving him guidance & structure.. & I feel that picking a good school with things like uniforms, and an advanced curriculum, are part of that job.
My point is.. Uniforms in schools do not make a person any less of an individual.