How to Be Fashionable While Following the School Dress Code
Many teenagers like to express themselves through their personal sense of style. This can become difficult for kids who attend schools that enforce a strict dress code. If low-cut tops, short skirts and baggy jeans are out of the question at your school, it doesn't mean that you can't let out your inner fashionista. With smartly tailored pants and skirts, modest but stylish tops and the right accessories, you can stay fashionable and school-appropriate at the same time.
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Girls' Tops
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Most schools restrict any girls' tops that are deemed to be too revealing, including tops with plunging necklines, midriff-revealing tops, sleeveless or strapless tops, or anything else that reveals an undergarment. Luckily, there are plenty of fashionable ways to get around these guidelines. Girl's fashion doesn't need to be skin-baring, so when dressing for school, choose a pretty button-up blouse or a crew-neck sweater or T-shirt to adhere to school guidelines. If you feel like your school-appropriate shirt is too plain to be fashionable, dress it up with a textured vest or cute cardigan sweater or add a funky necklace or pin.
Skirts and Girls' Pants
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Girls' pants, skirts and other bottoms usually are subject to rules regarding how much skin is being shown, as well. Many school dress codes prohibit miniskirts, overly tight pants or low-riding pants that reveal a girl's underwear. Since there are so many stylish skirt and pant options available, these restrictions shouldn't be an issue for a young lady concerned with fashion. Choose knee-length A-line or pencil skirts, longer maxi-skirts and dresses or trouser-cut jeans for a more formal look. For a more casual style, choose relaxed-fit jeans, khakis or leggings.
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Boys and Unisex Clothing
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Both boys and girls are usually prohibited from wearing T-shirts with any kind of message written on them that is profane or otherwise offensive. If you're set on wearing a T-shirt with a slogan or graphic on it, opt for a positive message, the logo of a clothing company, the name of your favorite noncontroversial band or an equally benign choice. If in doubt, check with school administration before wearing your T-shirt to school. You also can go for a solid-colored shirt or one with a geometric pattern. Boys' pants usually are not a problem, unless they are too tight, low-riding or ripped. Fashion-conscious boys should wear fitted jeans, cords or khakis to schools that maintain a dress code.
School Uniforms
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Being fashionable at a school that requires uniforms can be trickier than dealing with a standard dress code, but it is possible. Most schools that require uniforms don't offer much flexibility when it comes to the uniform itself, but you may have some leeway with accessories. Girls may be able to employ colored or textured tights, sparkly hair accessories or bold costume jewelry when dressing in uniform. Girls also can experiment with their makeup, if makeup is permitted by the school. Boys can show their style with a fashion-forward watch or signet ring or by sporting a hip new haircut.
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References
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