For a century, the Ashford School blazer has been a defining symbol of school life, tradition, and identity. First introduced in 1925 by then-Headmistress Mrs Annie Edwards, the distinctive striped blazer, with its bold combination of dark blue, red, and grey, was an instant hit among pupils. A century later, it remains one of the most recognisable elements of the school uniform, though not without its share of debate.

When the blazer was first introduced, it was met with enthusiasm. Pupils appreciated its smart and striking design, which stood out from the more conventional school uniforms of the time. Unlike the plain jackets worn in other schools, Ashford’s blazer embodied a sense of individuality and pride. It was originally worn with a grey velour hat, complete with a red and grey striped band, adding to the overall uniform’s elegance.

The blazers were made from Barathea, a high-quality fabric known for its soft, slightly textured feel. Historically associated with military uniforms, mourning clothes, and formal wear, Barathea gave the school blazer a refined and durable quality. Some of the earliest blazers were produced by C.G. Southcott & Co. Clothiers of Leeds, a company that supplied clothing from 1911 to 1980. Other blazers were linked to Leycott Registered, which may have played a role in their distribution or design.

In the school’s archives, two early blazers have been preserved, though their exact dates remain uncertain. One of these blazers belonged to M. Parminter, a boarder who left Ashford School in 1954. This particular blazer features chrome buttons and a school badge embroidered with the motto:

"UT PROSIM" – "That I may serve"

Beneath it, another Latin phrase appears:

"ESSE QUAM VIDERI" – "To be rather than to seem"

This motto, drawn from Cicero’s essay De Amicitia (On Friendship), serves as a guiding principle, encouraging students to embody authenticity and integrity rather than striving for mere appearances. Interestingly, the phrase is also the state motto of North Carolina.

Over the decades, the school blazer has continued to be a staple of Ashford School life, though its reputation has evolved. While some students have worn it with pride, others have found its bold stripes a little too eye-catching. More recently, the blazer has been affectionately (or perhaps teasingly) nicknamed “the deckchair” and “the zebra”, reflecting its eye-catching design.

Once purchased from a uniform shop in Ashford High Street, the blazer is now available online, ensuring that every generation of Ashford pupils can continue to wear this century-old tradition.

As we celebrate 100 years of the Ashford School blazer, we honour not just a piece of clothing but a symbol of unity, tradition, and school pride. Whether seen as a badge of honour or an eccentric relic, the blazer remains an unforgettable part of Ashford School’s history. Here’s to another century of stripes!