Japanese School Uniforms: What Makes Them Unique?

Japanese school uniforms are as iconic as magical girl outfits or superhero suits. They’re simple and recognizable and help students represent their schools with pride. But you might be thinking, “They look nice, but there’s nothing special about them.” Well, think again! 

These uniforms have an interesting history, going back over 100 years. We’ll look at these outfits, the different styles for boys and girls, and what they symbolize outside school. And we’ll finish with some iconic anime getups. Are you ready? It’s time for class!

How did Japanese school uniforms evolve?

Japanese students didn’t wear seifuku (school uniforms) at first. They wore traditional clothing to class: boys wore kimono and hakama (pants worn overtop), while girls wore just kimono. Changes came during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when hakama was added to girls’ clothing. Boys started wearing gakuran (matching trousers and tunic) in the Taishō period (1912-1926).  

The serafuku or sailor fuku (sailor-style uniform) appeared in the early 20th century. Inspired by naval uniforms and sailor dresses, it’s the most iconic school outfit for cosplay but is not that common in real life. After World War II, most Japanese schools switched to Western uniforms with blazers. However, the serafuku is still worn by female students today. Fun fact: all students have summer and winter versions of their uniforms!

Girls’ School Uniforms

Japanese female elementary, high, or middle school students have a few uniform options, like the bolero jacket and jumper skirt. No matter what style, girls usually wear skirts (short in the summer, long in the winter) that are either pleated or tartan. They typically wear a blouse with a blazer or vest with a tie, bolero tie, or kerchief. 

Most real-life Japanese schools have stricter dress codes than in anime; however, students have ways of going around them to stand out. Girls either roll up their skirts or make them longer. They wear different colors and lengths of socks and swap out their loafers for sneakers. Finally, they accessorize their hair, bags, and phone or notebooks to match their style.

Boys’ School Uniforms

Japanese boys’ gakuran are just as iconic as girls’ sailor suits. Usually all black but sometimes dark blue, the jacket comes with a stand-up collar and five golden buttons decorated with the school crest. The standard middle and conservative high school uniform is worn with straight-leg pants, sneakers, or loafers. However, most boys in Japanese high schools now wear blazers, white shirts (short-sleeved in the summer), and slacks instead.

Like their female classmates, Japanese male students have ways to get around the dress code. They could wear shirts untucked or unbuttoned, ditching the tie altogether. They might also hide badges or patches on their tops, including under the collar or jacket. Finally, they can play around with their socks and shoes as well. 

What do school uniforms represent?

School uniforms have a special meaning for both students and adults. The seifuku represents seishun (youth) itself! Seeing these uniforms makes grownups feel nostalgic for their childhood and teenage years. It’s no surprise that so many manga and anime series take place at school. Plus, many students like to wear uniforms outside of school as a fashion statement! 

Did you know students use school uniforms to make a romantic statement? During graduation ceremonies in March, girls ask their crushes for their daini (school jacket’s second button). If the boy likes the girl back, or if they’re already a couple, he’ll give the button to her. Why the daini? It’s the one closest to the heart.  

Iconic School Uniforms in Anime! 

Cardcaptor Sakura

Sakura Kinomoto looks stylish in any outfit, including her seifuku. As a Tomoeda Elementary School student, she wears a sailor outfit with black, white, and red colors and a cap. Kero goes over the uniforms’ details in “Leave it to Kero-Chan!” 

Sailor Moon

What type of uniform does Usagi/Serena wear? A serafuku, of course! Juban Public Middle School’s seifuku looks similar to the Sailor Scouts’ outfit, with a blue pleated skirt, white blouse, and pink bow. It’s not the best civilian disguise, but it is eye-catching and iconic.

The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya 

North High’s students have stand-out uniforms. Girls wear blue skirts, blue-and-white sailor-style blouses with red bows, and gray sweaters. Boys wear teal jackets, white shirts, red ties, and gray pants. The only thing more iconic is Haruhi’s ending theme and dance!

Why are Japanese school uniforms so interesting?

Japanese school uniforms are so interesting due to their different styles. They’re fashionable and practical, from anime staples like sailor suits and gakuran to modern versions with blazers and boleros.

Besides representing various schools, seifuku symbolizes adolescence and youthful love. Students wear them outside class and use them to share their feelings for each other. It’s more than clothing; it’s an expression of identity.

Throughout the years, seifuku has captured the imagination of students and non-students alike. Boys and girls wear different versions of the same outfit in winter and summer, bending the rules to accessorize. They also turn the clothing into casual wear and a way of showing their love for a significant other. What’s your favorite Japanese school uniform? Tell us in the comments.