Many schools across the country require students to wear specific uniforms. It can seem difficult to express your own style if you have to wear the same clothes as everyone else. Fortunately, it's still possible to customize your outfit to match your personality, even with limited options. If you consider yourself a tomboy, there are several ways to create a sporty, simple, or edgy look while still following your school rules.

Method 1
Method 1 of 3:

Choosing Your Clothing

  1. 1
    Look for shirts that are sporty and comfortable. Avoid pink, purple, or pastel colors, and instead look for dark colors or patterned options such as plaid. Your school might require you to tuck in your shirt, wear a collared shirt, or stick with certain colors, so this may limit your options. [1]
  2. 2
    Pair your shirt with dark colored pants or longer shorts. Pants are better for a tomboy style than a skirt or dress. You may have less options here, particularly if you’re required to wear khakis, slacks, or dress pants. [3]
    • If your school does require you to wear a skirt, try a black skirt or skort (a skirt with shorts built in). You can also wear solid colored or patterned leggings underneath a skirt.
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  3. 3
    Wear a loose-fitting, solid-colored hoodie or cardigan. This will go with many outfits and be very comfortable. You can wear it zipped, leave it open, or take it off throughout the day. Tie your jacket around your waist if you get too warm while inside. [4]
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Method 2
Method 2 of 3:

Adding Accessories to Your Outfit

  1. 1
    Buy Converse or sneakers. Look for colors such black, gray, or red, or unique patterns. These are more tomboyish than flats or sandals (which are typically considered "girly"). Sneakers come in many options, so try a pattern such as checkerboard or flames. [7]
  2. 2
    Add jewelry if desired. It is possible to wear jewelry while still maintaining a tomboy style, though you may want to keep it minimal. If you wear earrings, wear simple studs or hoops.[9]
    • A great way to pull any outfit together is with the help of watches and wristbands. You could get a wristband with your favorite singer's or band's name, or you could go for a watch with a medium sized strap in a color like blue, red and black.
  3. 3
    Wear a tie or belt. You could wear a tie formally or go for a more casual look by leaving your collar button open and wearing your tie slightly looser. For belts, choose a medium or thick belt that matches your pants. You can also find both of these items in either dark colors or edgy patterns. [10]
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Method 3
Method 3 of 3:

Doing Your Hair and Makeup

  1. 1
    Keep makeup to a minimum. If you feel comfortable wearing makeup, feel free to express yourself, though check with your school dress code if you want to use dramatic eyeliner or something similar. [11]
    • Concealer can be useful for blemishes and is very subtle.
  2. 2
    Stick with simple hairstyles. Tie your hair in a ponytail if you have long hair, or comb through with gel and create spikes if you have short hair. [12]
    • If you don’t want to style your hair at all, just brush it and leave it down. Wear a ponytail holder on your wrist in case you change your mind in the middle of the day.
  3. 3
    Wear a hat, if permitted. Try a baseball cap in either a solid color or representing a sports team. This keeps your hair back and gives you an athletic look.
    • If you don't have a hat or can't wear one to school, put your hair up in a ponytail and wear a thin, simple headband, which will have a similar impact on your look.
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Community Q&A

  • Question
    I have to wear a skirt at school, but at home I'm a tomboy. Does this make me a tomboy?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Of course. If you feel like a tomboy, then you are one. It's not your choice to wear the skirt anyway, you're just following the dress code.
  • Question
    Can I wear headphones or some ripped clothing as well to be tomboyish?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Of course, as long as your school dress code permits it. That's a great way to add a tomboy touch.
  • Question
    If I like to wear dark clothing and hoodies, does that make me a tomboy?
    Community Answer
    Community Answer
    Not necessarily. Lots of girls prefer dressing in more traditionally masculine colors/clothes. It kind of depends more on how you act, what you're interested in, etc.
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Warnings

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References

  1. http://www.seventeen.com/fashion/style-advice/tips/a2388/school-uniform-ideas/
  2. Natalie Tincher. Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist. Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.
  3. http://www.outfittrends.com/cute-tomboy-style-outfits/
  4. http://www.whowhatwear.com/the-essentials-for-dressing-like-a-tomboy/slide13
  5. Natalie Tincher. Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist. Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.
  6. Natalie Tincher. Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist. Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.
  7. http://www.whowhatwear.com/the-essentials-for-dressing-like-a-tomboy/slide13
  8. Natalie Tincher. Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist. Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.
  9. http://www.seventeen.com/fashion/style-advice/tips/a2388/school-uniform-ideas/

About This Article

Natalie Tincher
Co-authored by:
Fashion Stylist
This article was co-authored by Natalie Tincher. Natalie Tincher is the Owner and Principal Style Strategist of BU Style. With more than 10 years of experience, Natalie specializes in personal styling to reflect clients’ individuality, confidence, and comfort. In 2019, she was named the Global Head of Styling for Bloomberg Television. Natalie is certified in Image Consulting through the Fashion Institute of Technology. She regularly shares her expertise with corporate groups at major financial institutions, media companies, and news outlets including: Time Out New York, Refinery 29, and NBC News. This article has been viewed 75,233 times.
28 votes - 71%
Co-authors: 14
Updated: April 27, 2022
Views: 75,233
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