Describe a uniform you wear or have worn in school or work – IELTS speaking part 2
Describe a uniform you wear or have worn in school or work
You should say:
- When and where you had to wear it
- What it looks/looked like
- Who bought it for you
And explain how you feel/felt about it
- Example 1 – School uniform
Back in my high school days, I had a surprisingly boring and extremely plain school uniform. I remember it like it was yesterday , it was a long, navy blue skirt and a white button-down shirt with a red collar.
To be honest, I never really understood why our school picked such bland colours, but I guess it was to keep us focused on studying instead of fashion.
I would usually wear it with a pair of dark blue or navy pants and a red ribbon in my hair, which added a touch of cuteness to the otherwise dull ensemble.
I remember my mom bought the uniform for me before my first day of high school,and I couldn’t believe it when she told me that I had to wear the same outfit every single day for the next four years. But thinking back now, I guess it was actually quite convenient, as I never had to worry about what to wear in the mornings, and my classmates always looked the same too.
Overall, my old school uniform may have been plain and unexciting, but I can’t deny that it holds a special place in my heart and reminds me of the good old days of high school.
Thank you.”
- idioms
The idiom “I remember it like it was yesterday” means that something happened in the past, but the memory of it is still fresh and vivid.
Example: “Even though it happened 20 years ago, I remember my wedding day like it was yesterday.“
The idiom “the good old days” refers to a time in the past that is remembered fondly or nostalgically. This phrase is often used to contrast with present times.
Example: The older generation often talks about the good old days when children played outside and didn’t have access to so much technology.
Example 2 – Work
“I remember back when I started my first job working in an office,and we had to wear these dreadful uniforms. I remember It was this horrible navy blue collared shirt paired with black pants and black shoes. It was the complete opposite of stylish. I mean, who wants to dress like they’re going to a funeral every day?
I had to wear this uniform to work every day from 9 to 5, Monday through Friday, and it was honestly the worst part of my job. The only good thing about it was that the company provided the uniforms for us, so at least I didn’t have to fork out my hard-earned money for it.
The shirt was so plain and boring, with the company logo embroidered on the left side, and the pants were just as dull, with no pockets or any kind of detail. I felt like I was living in the movie Groundhog Day, wearing the same outfit day in and day out.
Overall, I really hated that uniform. It was just so bland and didn’t reflect my personal style whatsoever. But, I guess I had to suck it up and get used to it. Looking back,It definitely made me appreciate the freedom of being able to choose my own work outfit, even if it means wearing a tie.
Thank you.”
- idioms
The idiom “to fork out for something” means to spend a large amount of money on something, usually begrudgingly or unwillingly.
Example: I had to fork out for a new phone after I dropped mine in the pool.
Day in and day out means something that happens or is done consistently, without any break or variation.
Example: She works day in and day out to support her family.
To suck it up means to accept and deal with an unpleasant situation without complaining or showing weakness.
Example: I know you’re tired, but you have to suck it up and finish the project by tomorrow.
Describe a uniform you wear or have worn in school or work – IELTS speaking part 3
Why do you think that school uniforms are necessary
“In my opinion, I think that school uniforms are necessary for various reasons. Firstly, they promote a sense of unity and equality among students as everyone is dressed in the same manner, which eliminates the pressure to wear expensive or fashionable clothes.
As well as that, I guess uniforms help to instil some discipline and a sense of responsibility in students.
What’s more, they also help to minimise distractions and ensure a safe learning environment.
On top of that, by removing the focus on appearance, students can focus more on their studies, so I believe that school uniforms serve as an important component of a positive school culture.”
What are the advantages of a company or business having it’s staff wear a uniform?
“Personally, I believe that having a company or business staff wear a uniform has several advantages.
Firstly, it creates a sense of unity and equality among employees, which can improve teamwork and productivity.
What’s more, it helps to promote a more professional and cohesive image for the company, which can enhance its reputation and attract customers.
Another benefit is that uniforms help to eliminate the need for employees to spend time and money on choosing appropriate work attire, which can help to reduce financial burdens or distractions.
In my opinion, implementing a uniform dress code can be beneficial in creating a positive and efficient work environment.”
Do you think that students/employees should be consulted on the design of a uniform?
“Yes absolutely, I think it would be great if students or employees were consulted on the design of their uniform.
After all, they are the ones who will be wearing it every day, so their input is important. It could help create a sense of ownership and pride in the uniform, leading to increased confidence and productivity.
As well as that, involving them in the process could also result in more practical and comfortable designs, which I think is extremely important.
Having said that, at the end of the day, I guess the final decision should still be made by the higher authorities, while taking everybody’s opinions and ideas into consideration.”
Do you think that you can tell a person’s personality from the clothes they wear?
“I personally believe that a person’s clothing can give some insights into their personality, but it’s definitely not the whole picture.
Clothes can be a form of self-expression and can reflect someone’s style, interests, and values.
However, it’s important not to judge someone solely based on their appearance because fashion choices are subjective and can be influenced by various factors such as culture, current trends, and personal preferences.
What’s more, a person’s character and personality traits cannot be defined by their outward appearance. So while clothes can offer some clues,I don’t believe they don’t define who a person truly is.”
What kinds of jobs or businesses usually require a uniform?
“Well, I guess jobs or businesses that require uniforms are usually in the service industry, such as restaurants, hotels, retail stores, and hospitals.
These jobs require a uniform to create a professional and cohesive image for the company.
As well as that, uniforms can also promote a sense of equality and unity among employees.
On top of that jobs in law enforcement, or the military also often require uniforms for practical reasons and to establish authority.
Personally, I believe that wearing a uniform is necessary for certain jobs and industries to maintain a certain standard and image.”
More links to IELTS speaking part 2 topics with example answers
Describe a place where you go to relax
Describe an unusual holiday or vacation you went on
Describe a useful item in your home you couldn’t live without
Describe a time you bought something at a street market
Describe a movie that you felt strongly about
