How to Look Good In Your School Uniform

PDF download Download Article
PDF download Download Article

Wearing the same uniform every single day can get old really fast. But just because your school dictates what clothes you have to wear, that doesn’t mean you can’t play around with how you style them. Think about it—between your shirt, shoes, pants, hair, and accessories, there are tons of ways you can change up your school-day look and feel more confident. There are even subtle tweaks you can make to your outfit that shouldn't break a strict dress-code policy.

Method 1
Method 1 of 2:

Looking Good in a Girl’s Uniform

PDF download Download Article
  1. Each school is unique and has its own uniform style and dress code, and knowing the dress code for your school can help you accessorize, customize, and alter your uniform to make yourself feel more comfortable in it. Dress codes will also tell you what you can and cannot wear, and may cover topics such as:
    • How long skirts, shorts, or dresses have to be [1]
    • What kinds of jewelry, makeup, and accessories are acceptable (if any)
    • What colors you're allowed to wear
    • What type of shoes you can wear
  2. Most school uniforms have multiple options, including dresses, skirts, pants, and shorts for the bottoms, which are often paired with a long- or short-sleeved dress shirt. But if you're lucky, optional uniform items might also include a blazer, vest, or sweater that can each be worn in unique ways. [2]
    • These different clothing items can be worn in different combinations to accommodate the weather and your own personal style, and there are different ways you can alter the look of each to make it look a little cooler.
    Advertisement
  3. Wearing clothes that are too big or too tight isn't very flattering, so it’s important that you pick clothes in sizes that suit your body. [3] But if your uniform is the wrong size for whatever reason, you may be able to:
    • Tuck in your shirt to make it less baggy
    • Wear a belt around your waist to give your uniform more shape
    • Tie the bottom of your shirt in a knot to make it fit better
    • Alter your clothes to make them slightly larger or smaller
  4. Whether you have to wear a polo shirt, blouse, or button-down shirt, your school’s dress code policy may allow you to wear other clothing overtop, and this could give you an opportunity to add some style to your outfit. For instance, you could:
    • Wear a fitted or oversized knit sweater over your shirt [4]
    • Put on a funky cardigan or vest [5]
    • Wear a fitted blazer or jacket
  5. This works best when you can leave a few buttons undone at the top of your shirt, because you can wear either a neutral or vibrant shirt, tank top, or camisole under your shirt and let it show through around the neck area. [6]
  6. Roll up the cuffs on a long-sleeved shirt so that it sits at elbow-level, and roll up the cuffs on a short-sleeved shirt to make it more of a cap-sleeve style. You can also roll up the hem on your shorts and pants. [7]
    • Don’t roll your shorts up too high if your school has restrictions about how long they have to be.
  7. For schools that are more lenient with their uniform policies, you may be able to get away with replacing drab and boring pieces of your uniform with very similar but slightly more flattering clothing items.
    • For instance, if your uniform requires you to wear slacks or dress pants, you may be able to get away with regular pants in the same color that are a bit better fitting or have a different cut. [8]
  8. A funky accessory like this can be very helpful if you have to tuck your shirt into high-waisted bottoms. Even if you can't get away with a crazy belt, try adding some interest with a plain belt outfitted with a unique belt buckle.
    • If you're wearing a skirt with a shirt tucked in, try tying a sash or ribbon around the waist of the skirt.
    • You can also leave your dress shirt untucked over a skirt and pair it with a chunky belt at the waist.
  9. For schools that don’t allow uniform alterations, personalization, and additional clothing items, you may at least be able to get away with a few accessories here and there.
    • Scarves are great accessories for look and added warmth, and you might even be able to sneak some color into your outfit this way.
  10. Many school dress codes don’t mention what kind of bag you can carry, so you might have a little more room for creativity here. Unique ideas for schoolbags include:
    • Over-the-shoulder and messenger bags [9]
    • Regular bags that are decorated with patches, pins, and badges [10]
  11. How much jewelry you can wear will depend on your school, but if you're allowed to wear it, jewelry can be a great way to jazz up a uniform.
    • Try wearing multiple bracelets on one wrist
    • You can also layer multiple rings on a single finger
    • Basic chains can add a touch of class, but a colorful necklace can completely change your look
    • If you aren't allowed to wear jewelry at all, try wrapping a headband or hair elastics around your wrist. [11]
  12. Shoes can be a great way to add a personal touch to a uniform without breaking any dress code rules. But if your school does have a strict policy about shoes, try shiny black shoes with a slight heel or minor decorative feature. [12] But if you have more freedom, why not try:
    • High-top or low-top Converse with high socks [13]
    • Boots with fun shoelaces
    • Flats or ballerina slippers
    • Trendy dress shoes
    • Bright or unique running shoes
  13. Even if you can’t get away with fun shoes, you may still be able to experiment with different socks, leggings, and tights. These can include patterned socks, knee socks, baggy socks, textured tights, fishnets, and other decorative leggings. [14]
  14. There are many trendy hairstyles that will bring a whole new element to your uniform, and as long as you don’t try any crazy dye colors, you might be surprised at the hairstyles you can get away with.
    • If you have long hair, try a side braid, bun, or twist at the top of your head.
    • To add extra color or interest to your hair, you can also wear bright headbands, flowers, ribbons, and bows. [15]
    • For girls with medium-length wavy hair, you can either leave it loose and shaggy, bed-head messy, or combed back for a more professional look.
  15. Many schools have policies about cosmetics, but that doesn’t mean you can't sneak in some natural makeup here and there. For instance, try wearing:
    • Tinted lip gloss
    • Pale blush
    • Foundation to smooth your complexion
    • Some bronzer or neutral eyeshadow in the crease of your eye
    • A pale or metallic eyeshadow in the corners of your eyes [16]
    • Nail polish
    16. Advertisement
Method 2
Method 2 of 2:

Looking Good in a Guy’s Uniform

PDF download Download Article
  1. For a male uniform, your school’s dress code will determine whether you have to wear a tie, if you have to button every button or if you can get away with leaving a few open, what shoes you can and can't wear, and whether you always have to wear a collared shirt.
  2. The basic school uniform usually consists of pants or shorts that are paired with a dress shirt, but you may also have the option of a blazer, a vest, or a sweater that can be worn over your shirt. These different apparel items can be paired differently to achieve different looks, and there are various style choices you can make with each to make your uniform a little more unique.
    • Pick clothing in the right size, because the baggy look is mostly out, and clothes that are too tight will be uncomfortable.
  3. For a laid-back look, try a 90s-style Kurt Cobain cardigan. For a folky look, wear a vest, sweater vest, or fitted blazer. If you want to try for a dressed up casual look, pull a sweater over your shirt.
  4. To give your uniform a little more style, undo the top button on your shirt or polo and upturn the collar so it stands up. [17] You can do this with your blazer or jacket as well, but choose one or the other: don’t pop the collar on your shirt and your blazer.
  5. This allows you to control the length of your shirt, which can make your uniform look less oversized and more fitted. Tuck your shirt in completely, and then slowly pull it out to puff it out slightly. If you want your shirt a little longer, pull out a little more shirt and fold the excess down over your waist.
  6. Instead of wearing your pants higher up near your waist, let your belt out a little so you can wear your pants lower on your hip. [18]
  7. Along with rolling up the cuffs on your sleeves, you can actually roll up your blazer sleeves as well. This look works well with the popped collar.
  8. Accessories like a vintage watch, [19] a briefcase instead of a school bag, [20] a funky or elegant tie, or a great hat can make any uniform a little cooler. For hat ideas, try an ivy cap, a fedora, or porkpie with your uniform.
    • Try wearing a tie over your shirt but underneath a sweater, or paired with a cardigan. [21]
    • Try leaving your tie knot a little looser than normal. [22]
  9. There are tons of interesting hair styles that are popular right now that could give your uniform a new dynamic, especially when paired with a cool tie, watch, and hat. Next time you want to get your hair cut, consider a: [23]
    • Fade
    • Undercut
    • Pompadour
    10. Advertisement

Quiz Pack: We’ve handpicked these quizzes just for you.

You’ve read the article, now get personalized advice with wikiHow Quizzes. Each quiz is carefully researched and even endorsed by experts. Have fun and get the expert advice you need!
1
What Is My Style Quiz
2
What Is My Aesthetic Quiz
3
What Should I Wear Today Quiz

Expert Q&A

Search
Add New Question
  • Question
    How can I get a good looking face?
    Christina Santelli
    Wardrobe Stylist
    Christina Santelli is the Owner and Founder of Style Me New, a wardrobe styling concierge based in Tampa, Florida. She has been working as a stylist for over six years, and her work has been featured in HSN, the Pacific Heights Wine and Food Festival, and the Nob Hill Gazette.
    Christina Santelli
    Wardrobe Stylist
    Expert Answer
    Make sure you have a good skincare routine so your skin looks clear and healthy. This will help your face look great!
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 7 Helpful 37
  • Question
    How do I look my best?
    Christina Santelli
    Wardrobe Stylist
    Christina Santelli is the Owner and Founder of Style Me New, a wardrobe styling concierge based in Tampa, Florida. She has been working as a stylist for over six years, and her work has been featured in HSN, the Pacific Heights Wine and Food Festival, and the Nob Hill Gazette.
    Christina Santelli
    Wardrobe Stylist
    Expert Answer
    Pick clothing that you feel comfortable wearing. When you're comfortable, it boosts your confidence. Being confident is the key to looking your best!
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 9 Helpful 28
  • Question
    How can I beautiful when I wear a hijab with my uniform?
    Community Answer
    You can still look great with a hijab! If you are at the right age, I would recommend using subtle makeup, like lip gloss or a bit of contour. I would also recommend making your eyebrows and lashes look great. Apply castor oil or Vaseline to your eyelashes every night and they will grow, and pluck your eyebrows regularly to make sure that they are neat. Also, apply cucumbers to your eyes for 15 minutes to reduce eye bags and dark circles. It will also give you a glow. But mostly, hold your head up high and be confident.
    Thanks! We're glad this was helpful.
    Thank you for your feedback.
    If wikiHow has helped you, please consider a small contribution to support us in helping more readers like you. We’re committed to providing the world with free how-to resources, and even $1 helps us in our mission. Support wikiHow
    Yes No
    Not Helpful 23 Helpful 226
See more answers
Ask a Question
200 characters left
Include your email address to get a message when this question is answered.
Submit
      Advertisement

      Video

      Reader Videos

      Submit a Video Tip!

      Share a quick video tip and help bring articles to life with your friendly advice. Your insights could make a real difference and help millions of people!

      Submit a Video

      Tips

      Show More Tips

      Tips from our Readers

      The advice in this section is based on the lived experiences of wikiHow readers like you. If you have a helpful tip you’d like to share on wikiHow, please submit it in the field below.
      • Carefully review your school's dress code before making any alterations to your uniform. This ensures you customize your look without breaking policies. Then unleash your creativity within those guidelines!
      • See your uniform as a blank canvas rather than a creativity killer. With small tweaks, you can transform the same standard pieces into fresh new looks everyday. Get clever with mixing it up!
      • Add subtle personal touches like unique socks, small jewelry pieces, or decorated bags. Small touches make a big difference, while still following dress code rules.
      • Embrace required pieces like ties, vests and blazers as opportunities for self-expression. Play with stylish ways to layer and combine them to make them your own.
      • Smile, stand tall, and exude self-assurance. Your attitude is the best accessory for any outfit. Confidence and kindness make you glow from the inside out.
      • If your uniform is loose or ill-fitting, neatly tuck, knot, pin or alter pieces to better flatter your shape. Properly fitted clothes boost confidence.
      Submit a Tip
      All tip submissions are carefully reviewed before being published
      Name
      Please provide your name and last initial
      Submit
      Thanks for submitting a tip for review!
      Advertisement

      You Might Also Like

      How to
      Personalize a School Uniform Without Breaking the Rules
      How to
      Style a Uniform to Be the Best Looking Girl at School
      Advertisement

      References

      1. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-7ve-7Ljmo
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgau0Mj4qqo
      3. ↑ Christina Santelli. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview. 22 April 2019.
      4. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uEU9FhgVRY
      5. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmlRw234-bA
      6. ↑ http://www.seventeen.com/fashion/style-advice/tips/a2388/school-uniform-ideas/
      7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j-7ve-7Ljmo
      8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bgau0Mj4qqo
      9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVmC4xg0hxs
      1. ↑ http://www.rookiemag.com/2012/04/damn-girl-ya-look-good-6/
      2. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmlRw234-bA
      3. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmlRw234-bA
      4. ↑ http://www.seventeen.com/fashion/style-advice/tips/a2388/school-uniform-ideas/
      5. ↑ http://www.rookiemag.com/2012/04/damn-girl-ya-look-good-6/
      6. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmlRw234-bA
      7. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmlRw234-bA
      8. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uEU9FhgVRY
      9. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVmC4xg0hxs
      10. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtZbnJnoHcM
      11. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtZbnJnoHcM
      12. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fVmC4xg0hxs
      13. ↑ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CtZbnJnoHcM
      14. ↑ https://www.artofmanliness.com/articles/the-best-haircut-for-your-face-shape/
      15. ↑ Christina Santelli. Professional Stylist. Expert Interview. 22 April 2019.

      About This Article

      Article Summary X

      To look good in a girl’s school uniform, wear cute leggings or tights under your skirt. Additionally, you can accessorize with a belt, scarf, or jewelry. When you can’t add your own flare, roll up the cuffs on a long-sleeved shirt to elbow-level or roll up the hem on your shorts and pants. For boy's uniforms, try popping your collar by unbuttoning the top button and flipping the collar up. This look also goes great with a blazer with rolled up sleeves. You can also accessorize with a vintage watch, funky tie, or cool hat. To learn how to style your hair to add flare to your uniform, keep reading!

      Did this summary help you?
      In other languages
      Thanks to all authors for creating a page that has been read 1,459,721 times.

      Reader Success Stories

      • Anonymous

        Jul 6, 2016

        "This really helped my school uniform with the tips on my collar and my jumper. The tips on my hair were great, ..." more
      More reader stories Hide reader stories
      Share your story

      Did this article help you?

      Advertisement