What to Wear (and What Not to Wear) When Visiting Kentucky State Penitentiary
Kentucky State Penitentiary enforces a strict dress code, and showing up in the wrong outfit is the fastest way to lose your visit. Here's what you need to know to dress right and avoid getting turned away.
Start with your top. Your shirt must fully cover your shoulders, cleavage, and midriff - think of it as a three-part test. Neckline dips too low? Sleeves don't reach your shoulders? Hem rides up when you move? Any of these can get you flagged as out of compliance.
Undergarments matter too. You're required to wear them, and they can't be visible through your clothes. Sheer fabrics, thin materials, or anything that shifts when you move to reveal what's underneath? That's a problem.
Shoes are required. Bare feet aren't allowed in the visiting area.
Leave hats, caps, bandanas, scarves, and hoods at home. Head coverings aren't allowed during visits.
Note: Religious head coverings are permitted at KSP, but they are subject to search.
Think your outfit fits the rules? Staff have the final say. They decide whether what you're wearing meets the dress code - not you.
If something doesn't pass, you might get a chance to fix it. KSP's policy allows visitors to correct issues when possible - like changing clothes or adding a layer to cover up.
Warning: If the issue can’t be corrected, KSP will deny entry for the visit.
Practical Checklist
- ✓ A shirt/top that fully covers your shoulders
- ✓ A shirt/top that fully covers your cleavage
- ✓ A shirt/top that fully covers your midriff
- ✓ Appropriate undergarments that are worn and not visible
- ✓ Footwear (no bare feet)
- ✓ No head coverings (hats, caps, bandanas, scarves, or hoods), unless it’s a religious head covering
Playing it safe? Skip strapless or sleeveless tops that leave shoulders bare. Avoid low-cut necklines and cropped shirts that might expose your midriff when you reach or sit. Stay away from sheer or see-through fabrics. And remember: no hats, caps, bandanas, scarves, or hoods. Religious head coverings are the one exception, though they're still subject to search.
- Listen to the decision at the door - KSP staff have sole discretion on whether your clothing meets the dress code.
- Fix what you can right away - if possible, they may allow you to correct the issue by changing clothes or covering up.
- Be ready for a denied visit - if the problem can’t be corrected, you won’t be allowed to enter for that visit.
Next time, plan ahead. Bring a conservative backup top or an extra layer you can throw on if staff say something's borderline. Since KSP may let you correct an issue on the spot, having options can save your visit.
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