Crystal Prep appears as a typical high school. Aesthetically and in name, it bears some resemblance to the Crystal Empire in Equestria. The academy has an apparent dress code; all students wear reddish-purple blazers or vests, dark-blue ties or bow ties, and black shoes. Male students wear dark-blue slacks while female students wear reddish-purple tartan skirts. Students who show particular pride in their school call themselves Shadowbolts, first seen in the IDW comics' My Little Pony Annual 2013.