Penmate Inmate Support Guides
Visitation

David Wade's Visitor Dress Code: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Dress code issues are one of the fastest ways to lose a visit you've been counting on. Here's what David Wade Correctional Center (DWCC) specifically flags — so you can get dressed once and walk in with confidence.

• 2 min read • doc.la.gov
David Wade's Visitor Dress Code: What You Need to Know Before You Go

At DWCC, hem length and slits matter most. Skirts, shorts, skorts, culottes, and dresses can't be shorter than one inch above the kneecap. That same group is also off-limits if it has a revealing slit - even when the overall length looks fine. Why? Slits can expose more skin when you sit or walk.

Quick self-check: Stand straight and make sure the hemline lands at (or below) about one inch above your kneecap. Then sit down and take a few steps - if a slit opens up and shows a lot of leg, swap outfits.

DWCC doesn't allow hats or head coverings in visitation. The policy specifically calls out items people don't always think of as "hats" - bows, ribbons, clips, and scarves included. If it goes on your head as an accessory or covering, leave it behind.

Reminder: Take off headwear and head accessories before you head into the visiting area - that includes decorative pieces like bows, ribbons, clips, and scarves.

Show up in something that doesn't pass? You're not automatically turned away. DWCC's policy says visitors without appropriate clothing will be offered Department-approved alternatives at no cost. You may be able to change and continue with your visit.

If you borrow alternative clothing, treat it like a loaner - it has to come back. Return any borrowed items to staff when you leave the visitation room.

Good to know: The alternative clothing is free, but it’s temporary - you’ll return it to staff as you leave the visitation room.

David Wade's Visitor Dress Code: What You Need to Know Before You Go

Sect 4

  • ✓ Choose bottoms or a dress that clearly reach at least one inch above the kneecap (or longer)
  • ✓ Do a “sit-and-step” test at home to see whether any slit becomes revealing when you move
  • ✓ Skip hats and anything worn as a head covering (including bows, ribbons, clips, and scarves)
  • ✓ Keep a simple backup outfit in your car if you can, in case your first choice gets flagged
  • ✓ If you’re offered Department-approved alternative clothing, plan to return it to staff when you exit the visitation room

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