How to Add a Tomboy Touch to a School Uniform

Last Updated: April 27, 2022

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
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]
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- Shop at stores that have unisex options, as these may be great for a tomboy look.
- The "tomboy" style is very relaxed.^{[2]
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  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.}
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]
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- 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
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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- Create a punk look by rolling up the sleeves to your elbows.
- Leather jackets also add to a great tomboy outfit.
- Sweatshirts are another excellent staple in a tomboy wardrobe.^{[5]
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  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.}
- Slip on a blazer if you'd like to create a fancier look.^{[6]
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  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.}

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Adding Accessories to Your Outfit

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]
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- Try wearing high top Converse or other brands with a similar look, such as Vans. You can wear longer socks with these if you'd like.
- Slip into a pair of oxfords if you'd like to look a little dressier.^{[8]
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  Expert Source
  
  Natalie Tincher
  Style Strategist & Wardrobe Specialist
  Expert Interview. 13 August 2020.}
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]
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- 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
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
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]
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- Concealer can be useful for blemishes and is very subtle.
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]
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- 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
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.

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

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

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

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.