Haalarit

In Finland, college students often wear haalarit, or overalls (what we would call coveralls) to university events, parties, and ceremonies. The appearance of the haalarit will tell you a lot. The color indicates what discipline they are studying, which varies by school. The patches worn are from experiences and accomplishments. And sometimes you can tell if a student is "taken" if they have a mismatched part, as they sometimes swap with their significant other. The haalarit are a source of pride for students, and a way to boost school spirit. It also makes it easier to see who has the same interests as you do.        

The custom of the haalarit began in the 1950s or '60s when other students began copying the painting overalls worn by Civil Engineering students in Sweden. Further digging reveals that these overalls should never be washed. Well, college doesn't last forever. (via kottke)