How to Be Cool at School in Uniform

Co-authored by Lana Blanc

Last Updated: January 4, 2023 References Approved

School uniforms are often instituted to discourage inappropriate or offensive styles or logos, but they aren’t always the trendiest looking clothes.^{[1]
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Research source} It can be a real drag wearing the same thing every day, but if you want to know how to look cool in your uniform, we’ve got you covered. There are plenty of little alterations and adjustments you can make to your uniform to make it more interesting without violating your school’s dress code.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Altering Your Uniform

1
Roll up your sleeves. This is a simple trick that allows you to show off your jewelry while also having a practical effect. During the warmer months, it's an easy way to look cool and keep cool. Just make sure you have some cute jewelry to show off, too.
2
Unbutton your top button. As long as it doesn't reveal too much, unbuttoning your top button will make you look relaxed, like you don't let things bother you. Whether you're a guy or a girl, as long as it doesn't get you into trouble, it's a harmless and easy way to look less strict.
- Be conscious of how much skin is being revealed. If your top button is already low, you might be showing too much if you unbutton it.
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3
Mix and match different uniform items. Some schools offer different outfits to serve as uniforms for different days of the week. Don't be afraid to mix and match different articles from each outfit.
- For girls, you can try wearing tights with your skirt in the colder months.
- For guys, wear a different tie or sport coat with your uniform.^{[2]
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Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Changing Your Attitude

1
Be confident. Confidence and self-acceptance shows that you truly believe in yourself and the things you can accomplish, which other people will clearly be able to see.^{[3]
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Research source} Nothing says "cool" like a lot of confidence in the way you are and the way you're dressed. Even if you don't alter your uniform or your appearance in any way, your confidence alone will stand out to others.
2
Keep cool under pressure. If a teacher puts you on the spot, don't sweat. Simply ask the teacher to rephrase the question if you don't understand, or politely apologize and ask them to repeat the question.
- If you don't understand, don't fumble. Try saying, "I'm sorry, I don't completely understand what you're asking. Can you rephrase the question?"
- If you don't know the answer, don't try to make one up. Admit that you don't know, and try to seek the answer. You can say something like, "I wasn't sure about that part of the assignment. What part of our texts/reading can I find the answer?" Or ask a question directly related to the assignment.
3
Smile. Even if you're a little unsure of yourself, smiling shows your overall happiness with yourself and your appearance. Putting on a happy face doesn't just make you more likeable; it makes you healthier.^{[4]
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Research source} Always smile to your friends and teachers, and be polite and bright.
- It would be a good idea to keep your teeth white and free of anything stuck in between. Brush your teeth daily and check your smile after you eat things.
4
Be nice. You may have your group of friends, but it's important to be nice to others around you, as well. Bullying is never cool, and can cause damage to your own reputation as well as the victim's personal health and wellbeing.
5
Stand up for yourself. If somebody is bullying you, it's important to stand up for yourself. Whatever the reason, don't be ashamed of the way you look or the way you are. If you can be confident and happy with who you are, the people bullying you won't look so cool-- and you'll look even cooler.
- When you stand up for yourself, remember that fighting is not the same thing. Fighting can get you into a lot of trouble and it can hurt people. ß

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Changing Your Physical Appearance

1
Cut your hair. While schools may be able to monitor your uniform, there's less regulation when it comes to your physical appearance. Neon colors and distracting cuts may be outlawed, but there's no harm in changing your hair natural hair color or getting a style cut. Keeping your hair maintained and trimmed makes you look more polished and cool.^{[5]
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- This can be useful for both guys and girls. Take a look at some celebrities your age and get hair styling ideas from them.
2
Maintain your personal hygiene. Make sure your shower every day and keep everything clean, including under your fingernails. Keep your fingernails trimmed and maintained. Try using perfume or cologne to enhance the aroma around you.
3
Paint your fingernails (for girls). Try not to let it chip. If you use a base coat and a top coat, it makes your nail color last longer without chipping.
- Keep reapplying a top coat every day or every other day to keep the paint from chipping.
4
Trim your facial hair (for guys). If you're old enough to grow it, facial hair can be a cool way to stand out. Don't let it grow to shaggy or overgrown. Keep it maintained and trimmed for a polish, clean look.
- Untrimmed facial hair could be in violation of the dress code and uniform policy. If a teacher sees your mane unkempt, they could ask you to shave at school.^{[6]
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Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Accessorizing Your Uniform

1
Choose a color scheme. Usually a school uniform has the same colors as the school athletic programs and mascot. These can be a variety of combinations of colors. Take a look at a color wheel and see what colors best complement each other. Complementary colors are any two colors which are directly opposite each other.^{[7]
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- Green is complementary to blue and yellow.
- Purple is complementary to red and blue.
2
Buy new jewelry sticking with your color scheme. No matter how dull your uniform or school colors may be, you can always brighten things up with jewelry.^{[8]
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Research source} For girls, you can focus on earrings, bracelets and necklaces. For guys, you can stick with rings, watches and subtle chains.
- Be careful not to go overboard. Even if you buy a lot of jewelry, you don't have to wear it all at once. Use different pieces and vary them throughout the week.
3
Shop for additional clothing items. Just because you're stuck wearing a uniform doesn't mean you can't add to it (sometimes). Try purchasing a new jacket or cardigan.^{[9]
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Research source} Adding scarves or accessorizing your belts could stand out as well.
- Everything from your shoes and socks to your bag and hair accessories provides an opportunity to express yourself and your personal style.
4
Wear a hat. Even if your school doesn't allow hats to be worn in the building, you can still look cool before and after school with a hat. Guys can sport a backwards baseball cap while girls flex a visor, a stylish cap or a cute beret. The same works for sunglasses.
- Just make sure you have a place to put the hat and sunglasses while class is in session so they don't get taken away. Invest in a cute bag or backpack to carry your things.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I look cool at school if everyone already knows me as a dork?

Community Answer

Don't worry about what other people think or say. Wear whatever makes you feel comfortable and confident. If you want to make a few changes so you feel "cooler," that's fine, but don't go overboard.
Question

How do I become cool if everyone is in uniforms? Can I express myself with a hairstyle?

Community Answer

First impressions often come from hairstyles. If you want to express yourself but you can't do it with clothing, hair is a perfect option!
Question

How can I wear my hijab at school and be cool?

Community Answer

"Cool" is not necessarily what you wear, it's really more of an attitude. If you truly like yourself and seem confident and self-assured, people will naturally gravitate to you.