How to Look Like an Individual While Wearing a School Uniform

Co-authored by Lana Blanc and Sophia Latorre

Last Updated: October 22, 2022 References

When the school year rolls around again, it's time to pick out everything you need for the new semester. If you're like a growing number of students all over the world, your new wardrobe may be a school uniform. You shouldn't worry--if your school requires uniforms, you can still keep your individuality. You can choose basic items with fun details, and also accessorize your look with everything from fun shoes to bold scarves.

Part 1

Part 1 of 3:

Personalizing Your Look

1
Look for loopholes in your school's dress code. Get a copy of the uniform policy and/or dress code and read it carefully. It’s super important to be respectful of your school's uniform policy to avoid getting into trouble. Look for loopholes -- you may have to wear a uniform, but the code may not say anything about wearing only your uniform.
- For instance, you may be able to add a jacket, scarf, hat, buttons or pins, etc.
- When adding items to your uniform, make sure that they still conform to the dress code. For example, you may be able to wear a jacket, as long as it is solid-colored.
2
Choose items in varying sizes or lengths. If possible, choose separates, like sweaters and skirts, in multiple sizes or lengths. This will give you more variety to choose from when getting dressed for school. For example:
- If you can choose the length of your skirt, get one that’s shorter and one that’s longer. Pair the longer skirt with flats and a shorter skirt with high-heeled boots.
- If you are allowed to choose the length of your socks, alternate between crew and knee-high socks.
- Some schools offer a variety of sweaters, cardigans, vests, and sweatshirts. Consider choosing 2 or 3 different items so that you aren't wearing the same thing every day.
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3
Get multiple colors. In some cases, you may have a choice between colors. For example, if your school colors are maroon and navy, you may be able to choose between those colors when picking a sweater for your uniform. Rather than making a choice, get both if your budget (or your parents’ budget) allows. That way you can have some options when getting ready.
- For example, if your school offers both maroon and navy cardigans, get both! Wear the maroon cardigan one day, and the navy one the next!
- Keep patterns in mind. Some schools offer both plaid and solid-colored skirts. This will allow you to create more combinations and add some variety to your wardrobe.
4
Pick a cut that flatters your body. You may have the option to choose between several cuts of an item, such as pants. Rather than opting for the most basic choices, pick a cut that flatters your body. Go for a flare if that appeals to you, or choose boot-cut or baggy pants. You can even get a couple of each style so you’ll be able to make a choice in the morning.^{[1]
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- Skirts also come in different styles. A skirt with pleats may not flatter you at all, but a skirt with a flat front and darts may.
- When you find a cut that flatters you, stick with it. Try to find as many lengths, colors, and patterns in that cut.
5
Choose basics with fun details. If you have to wear basic items, avoid buying them from the school when possible. Instead, shop around to find items that fit the rules while still being unique. For example, pick a collared white shirt with three-quarter length sleeves, ruched sides, or pretty buttons instead of the standard collared white shirt the rest of your classmates will have.
6
Pop your collar. Instead of laying your collar flat like your classmates do, pop your collar up. It will make you stand out -- at least until everyone starts copying your look!
- You could even wear a brightly-colored collared shirt underneath your uniform and pop both collars for a unique look.
- If you don't like popping your collar, consider leaving the top 1 to 2 buttons open. Double-check with your school if this is allowed first, however!
7
Add a unique jacket. Not only will a jacket keep you warm, it can show you personality, too. You can choose from a bomber jacket, peacoat, trench, and more. Pick a rain coat in a fun pattern or choose a coat that’s tailored to show off your figure.^{[2]
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- If you don't like to wear jackets, try sweaters or cardigans. Sweater vests are also a great option!
- Double-check with your school's dress code first. They may only allow non-uniform jackets as long as they contain the school colors.
- If you have to wear a uniform blazer, try rolling the sleeves up to give it a different look.^{[3]
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  Lana Blanc
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  Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}

Part 2

Part 2 of 3:

Adding Accessories

1
Choose fun shoes. Personalize your look by adding a shoe that fits your style. Pick a floral print, a metallic finish, or a two-tone shoe. Mix it up by choosing sneakers one day and flats the next. Go for moccasins, combat boots, or even heels.^{[4]
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Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}^{[5]
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- If you have to wear a specific shoe, add colored or coiled laces to make them your own.
2
Wear cool socks or tights. Pick fun socks in a variety of lengths, colors, and patterns. Choose a bold and colorful knee-high sock when you’re feeling fun, or go with a themed sock (e.g. with golden snitches from Harry Potter) to show your interests. You could also wear patterned tights under your skirt, if allowed.^{[6]
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- If you have to wear a specific kind or color of sock, look for ways to stick to the rules while still having style. For example, if you have to wear gray socks, choose tall gray socks with a ruffle at the top.
- You can also try styling your socks differently. For example, you can wear socks pulled straight up, folded over, or scrunched down.
3
Knot your tie uniquely. Rather than using the same knot every day, mix it up and choose different knots occasionally. You could also choose a knot that no one else at your school wears so that your tie stands apart from everyone else’s.
4
Top off your look with a hat. If your dress codes allows you to wear a hat, you can easily individualize your uniform by choosing a unique one. There are so many different styles of hats to choose from, including baseball caps, berets, cowboy hats, newsboys caps, fedoras, panama hats, and safari hats.^{[7]
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Lana Blanc
Personal & Fashion Stylist
Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}
- Choose a couple different styles or colors so that you can match one to your mood on any given day.
- If hats aren’t allowed during class, wear one in the halls, at lunch, and after school.
5
Add buttons or pins to your uniform and accessories. Buttons, brooches, and pins come in many different shapes and styles. You can choose pins that proclaim messages, ones with funny pictures, and buttons with your favorite band members or TV characters. Brooches are also available in cameos and with pretty details, like gems and pearls.^{[8]
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- Wear a couple on your blazer or add several to your book bag.
- If you feel crafty, you can even make your own button or pin.
6
Wear a watch. Choose a nice watch with details that you adore, such as a cool clock face or rhinestones instead of numbers. Watches can be made out of metal, plastic, and even wood, so there are options out there for every style. You can even choose to get a few inexpensive watches and rotate through them.^{[9]
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- If you can't afford multiple watches, consider getting just 1 watch, then replace the straps when you feel like it. Watch straps are usually less expensive than full watches.
7
Get a few fun belts. Belts are a great way to personalize your look, especially if your school rules are pretty strict and you aren’t able to add other accessories to your uniform. The possibilities are endless, so choose a few different styles, such as a braided belt, one with studs, a multicolored belt, or a chain belt that dangles.^{[10]
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- Another option is to get a belt with a removable buckle, then switch the buckles around as you see fit.
8
Wear unique jewelry. Stack your arm with bangle bracelets, wear a chunky necklace, or sport some dangly earrings. You can even choose a fun anklet to spice up your look.^{[11]
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- Not every school will allow jewelry, and some schools will only allow certain types. Double-check with your school dress code.
- Avoid wearing really expensive or sentimental pieces, especially if you have gym that day. If your piece gets stolen, it will be a big loss!
9
Add a bag that shows your personality. Choose a cool and unique tote, satchel, or backpack. Find one that can fit all your school supplies but that still shows your unique style.^{[12]
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Expert Interview. 13 October 2021.}^{[13]
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- Consider getting 2 or 3 different bags to switch around and match your outfits. For example, you could use a navy bag one day, and a maroon bag the next.
10
Get fun frames for your glasses. If you wear glasses, you can express your style with the frames. Pick a bright color or a pattern, such as leopard print. You could even pick a cool pair of frames with clear glass lenses if you don’t need prescription lenses.
11
Wear a scarf. Add a scarf to your uniform to give it some personality. There are tons of ways to wear a scarf, so don’t think you have to wear it the same way all the time. Mix it up by looping a solid-colored scarf once around your neck one day and braiding a patterned scarf around your neck the next.
- You don't have to wear scarves around your neck. For example, you can tie a cute, silk scarf around your head like a headband.

Part 3

Part 3 of 3:

Wearing Makeup and Styling Your Hair

1
Create a natural look for every day. For school, you may want to stick with a natural look. Use concealer to hide blemishes, and add a rosy glow to your cheeks with a little bit of blush. Then, simply swipe on a light lip gloss and add a single coat of mascara.
- Not all schools will allow makeup, even things like lip gloss. Double-check the dress code!
- If you can't wear makeup, ask your school if you can wear nail polish. They may accept a natural-looking French manicure.
2
Wear dramatic makeup once in awhile. Sometimes you may want to use makeup to create a more dramatic look. Choose a bright eyeshadow to draw attention to your eyes, and finish it off with a couple of coats of mascara. Alternatively, you can keep your eye makeup neutral and go for a bold lip color.
3
Express your personality with your hairstyle. Go for a neat ponytail adorned with a ribbon for a preppy look, or use a salt spray to create beachy waves. Slick your hair back or spike it up for an edgier look. You can even get a dramatic haircut, like an asymmetrical bob, if you really want to stand out. Don’t be afraid to change it up, from day to day, or every once in awhile.^{[14]
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4
Add cool hair accessories. Choose an embellished hair tie or a patterned headband. Wear ribbons, clips, or barrettes in your favorite color or in a fun print. You could also wear a bandana or a head wrap.^{[15]
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- If you have short, pixie-length hair, consider wearing a cute barrette or headband.
5
Color your hair. Ask your stylist what colors they think will suit your skin tone, eyes, etc. You can add highlights or take it to the next level and dye your hair a bright color, like pink or green, if your school allows it.
- Not all school will allow you to dye your hair or add highlights, so check the dress code first.
- Natural colors tend to be more acceptable than unnatural ones, such as blue or pink. Ask your school about what colors are acceptable.

Community Q&A

Question

How can I look like an individual when my school has a strict dress code and everything has to be bought from school?

Community Answer

Focus on your hair. Style it in a fun or special way. Search wikiHow for some great styles!
Question

How can I look like an individual if my parents make me wear a uniform to school when nobody else has to?

Community Answer

Spice up your uniform with accessories like jewelry and scrunchies, and wear fun socks. Go for a cute preppy look.
Question

Why are headbands not allowed at my school?

Community Answer

Probably because they are seen as a distraction, or could have some other connection to something that is not conducive to progressing in your studies.