How to Look Nice for School (Girls)

It's natural to want to look nice for school, and there are lots of ways you can make a great impression. Looking nice starts with basic hygiene like showering, brushing your teeth, and wearing deodorant so you smell clean and fresh. If you want to wear makeup, create a natural look using concealer, mascara, and lip gloss. Style your hair by doing things like curling or braiding it, and finish off your look by picking out a great school outfit that fits within your dress code.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Forming Good Personal Hygiene Habits

1
Take a shower to wash your hair and body. Use body wash to rinse dirt and grime off of your body in the shower daily, especially if you’ve been exercising or outside. Wash your hair using shampoo when it gets greasy, often every other day. Use conditioner to give your hair some added shine and nutrients.^{[1]XResearch source}
- Use a loofah, washcloth, or your hands to spread the body wash over your body, paying special attention to your underarms and feet.
2
Brush your teeth twice a day and floss frequently. Use your toothbrush and toothpaste to brush your teeth in the morning before you go to school, as well as before you go to bed. Brush for two minutes each time, making sure you brush each tooth as well as your tongue. Floss to get rid of any food that might be stuck in between your teeth.^{[2]XResearch source}
- While it’s recommended that you floss twice a day, try to at least do it before going to bed to get rid of any food buildup in your mouth.
- If you struggle with flossing or have braces, consider getting a water pick to help you clean your mouth and teeth more effectively.
3
Comb your hair to get rid of any tangles. This is especially important to do before and after taking a shower because wetting your hair will make the tangles more difficult to get out. Use a comb or brush to gently brush through each strand of hair, removing tangles and knots so your hair is smooth.^{[3]XResearch source}
- Try using a wide-tooth comb to get rid of tangles when your hair is still wet.
4
Wear deodorant so you’re smelling fresh and clean. It’s likely that you’ll sweat at some point during the school day, and putting on deodorant will help mask any odors. Pick out a deodorant or antiperspirant with a scent that you like, and use it under your arms every morning before you go to school.^{[4]XResearch source}
- Regular deodorants keep you smelling fresh when you sweat, while an antiperspirant helps control the amount that you sweat.
- Consider putting deodorant in your gym bag for you to use if you need it during gym class or sports.
5
Wash your face twice a day to get rid of dirt. Rinse your face with water and a gentle face cleanser in the morning and again at night. Remove any makeup using makeup wipes or a different type of makeup remover to make sure you don’t go to bed with anything left on your face.^{[5]XExpert SourceMelissa Jannes
Skincare SpecialistExpert Interview. 30 August 2019.}
- Washing your face will help prevent breakouts.
- If you do have bad breakouts, pick out an acne-fighting product containing an ingredient like benzoyl peroxide to help treat them.
6
Pick out clean clothes to wear each day. Avoid wearing the same clothes multiple times without washing them. Choose a clean outfit each morning to wear to school, and bring a change of clothes if you’ll be exercising or spending lots of time outdoors.^{[6]XResearch source}
- Some clothing items like jeans you can wear more than once without washing, but be sure to look them over to check for any stains first.
- Wear a fresh shirt every day since these often gather more sweat and stains.
7
Cut your nails when they get long using nail clippers. If you notice dirt building up under your fingernails or toenails, it’s likely time to trim them. Use nail clippers to cut your nails, leaving a thin edge of white so you don’t cut down to your actual skin. Feel free to paint them using nail polish too, if desired.^{[7]XResearch source}
- Use a nail scrub brush to get rid of any dirt underneath your fingernails.
8
Use feminine hygiene products during your menstrual cycle, if needed. When you’re on your period, bring pads or tampons with you to school in a little pouch or in a pocket of your backpack. Change them every 4-6 hours to ensure you keep your body fresh and clean.^{[8]XResearch source}
- If you use a different sort of hygiene product, like a menstrual cup or IUD, make sure you know how to care for these.
- If you're playing an intense sport or swimming in a pool before or after school, opt for a tampon instead of a pad.

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Doing Your Makeup

1
Use a moisturizer containing sunscreen before applying any makeup. This will protect your skin from the sun’s harmful rays as well as lock in moisture for your face. Squeeze out a nickel-sized amount of moisturizer and spread it evenly over your skin.^{[9]XResearch source}
- Pick out a moisturizer from your local drugstore or big box store.
2
Cover up any blemishes using concealer. If your skin is breaking out or you just want to cover up certain spots, pick out a concealer that matches your skin tone. Apply a minimum amount in a light layer and rub it in gently to spread it onto the areas evenly.^{[10]XExpert SourceMelissa Jannes
Skincare SpecialistExpert Interview. 30 August 2019.}
- Some concealers come with a tool for you to use to spread it over your face, or you can use your finger or a makeup brush to blend it in evenly.
- Look for sample concealers at your local big box or beauty store that you can test out on your skin before purchasing to make sure the color matches.
3
Apply mascara to your eyelashes to draw attention to your eyes. Brush the mascara onto your lashes gently, making sure you get as close to your eyelid as possible for the best effect. Use the mascara on your upper lashes to make your eyes look bigger and more defined.^{[11]XResearch source}
- Pick out a mascara in a brown color if you have lighter hair, or choose a dark brown or black color if you have brown or darker hair.
- Apply the mascara carefully to avoid getting it in your eyes.
4
Pick out a shade of lip gloss to add some shine to your lips. Neutral shades of pink always look great when you’re at school, or you can choose a darker tone like a red for a bolder look. Apply the lip gloss to your lips evenly using the wand that comes with it.^{[12]XExpert SourceMelissa Jannes
Skincare SpecialistExpert Interview. 30 August 2019.}
- Choose from a wide variety of lip gloss shades at your local big box store or beauty store.
- If you don’t want to use a lip gloss, apply a lip balm or chapstick to your lips to give them some needed moisture.
5
Keep your look natural for school by applying minimal makeup. Since you’re going to school, it’s best to keep your look as casual and minimal as possible. Concealer, mascara, and a simple lip gloss are likely the only things you might need, though eye shadow and other forms of makeup can be used too.^{[13]XExpert SourceMelissa Jannes
Skincare SpecialistExpert Interview. 30 August 2019.}
- Check your school’s guidelines to make sure there aren’t any restrictions on what type of makeup you can wear.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Choosing a Hairstyle

1
Straighten your hair for a sleek look. Make sure your hair is completely dry before using a hair straightener to straighten your locks. Section your hair into smaller sections and close the straightener down on a strand of hair before pulling the straightener slowly down the length.^{[14]XResearch source}
- Spray your hair with a heat protectant spray before using the hair straightener to keep it from getting damaged.
- Avoid holding the hair straightener clamped down on a section of hair for more than a few seconds or you may burn your hair.
2
Add curls to your hair to give your hair some bounce. Use a curling iron to create waves in your hair. Wrap 1 in (2.5 cm) strands of hair around the curling iron’s rod and wait a few seconds before releasing the strand to reveal beautiful curls.^{[15]XResearch source}
- Spray your hair with a heat protectant so you don’t damage your hair.
- Curl your hair without using heat by doing things like putting it up in a bun or using foam rollers.
3
Braid your hair to create a casual updo. French braid your hair, create a dutch braid, or opt for a simple rope braid to keep your hair out of your face and styled. There are lots of different braids to choose from, but the traditional braid always creates a great look too.^{[16]XResearch source}
- To do a simple braid, separate your hair into three sections. Cross the left section over the middle section, and the right section over the middle section, repeating this process to create a long braid.
- Create one braid going down the back of your head, or separate your hair into two sections to form two braids.
4
Pull your hair up into a bun or ponytail to get your hair out of your face. If you’re pressed for time or just want your hair up, sweep your hair up into a simple high or low bun, or opt for a ponytail. Secure your choice using a hair tie.^{[17]XResearch source}
- Use bobby pins to secure any stray pieces of hair.
5
Add accessories to your hair to style it quickly. These could be things like barrettes, embellished bobby pins, headbands, or scarves. Pin your hair to the side using a clip or barrette, or throw on a headband to keep your hair out of your face.^{[18]XResearch source}
- Tie a scarf around your head so it looks like a headband for a unique look.

Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Picking out an Outfit

1
Stick to your school’s dress code. When you’re putting together an outfit, it’s important to follow your school’s dress code so you look presentable and don’t get in trouble. Look over your school’s rules about what you can and can’t wear so you’re sure to pick out something appropriate.^{[19]XResearch source}
- For example, your school might not allow strapless shirts, ripped jeans, or bras showing through your clothing.
- Make sure any shorts or dresses are long enough according to your school’s guidelines.
2
Personalize your outfit using scarves or jewelry if you wear a uniform. Even if you have to wear a uniform to school, there are lots of ways to let your personality and style shine through. Wear jewelry, a scarf, stylish socks, or your favorite pair of shoes to personalize your look.^{[20]XResearch source}
- For example, wear a statement necklace or bracelet with your uniform, or a fun belt.
- Bows and headbands can be a great way to add style to your uniform as well.
3
Pair jeans and a T-shirt with statement shoes for a simple look. Put on your favorite pair of jeans and pick out a T-shirt in a solid color like blue or purple. Select a pair of statement shoes that brings out the colors in your outfit like sandals with flowers on them or a pair of artsy Converse.^{[21]XResearch source}
- Wear a shirt with a V-neck for a more feminine look.
- Add a statement jacket on over your T-shirt to take your outfit to the next level.
4
Wear an oversized sweater with fitted pants for a cozy outfit. Pick out a soft sweater in a color like pink, green, gray, or blue, and pair it with fitted pants to help streamline your outfit. These could be skinny jeans or leggings, if your school dress code allows them.^{[22]XResearch source}
- Accessorize your outfit by adding a long necklace that matches your sweater.
5
Layer a jean jacket over a dress for a fancier outfit. During warmer weather, pick out your favorite dress, either in a pattern or a solid color. Put on a denim jacket and wear a pair of sandals to complete the look.^{[23]XResearch source}
- For example, wear a red and orange floral patterned dress with a dark blue denim jacket over it.
- Add a belt to your dress to define your waistline.
6
Pick out a flowy top to wear with shorts on warmer days. For example, wear a light purple short-sleeved blouse with jean shorts, or put on a white flowy tank top with patterned shorts. Whichever option you choose, make sure your shirt matches your shorts to create a stylish outfit.^{[24]XResearch source}
- Put on a pair of sneakers to complete your look.
- Make sure the length of your shorts follows your school dress code.
7
Use accessories to take a simple outfit to the next level. If you’re looking for ways to spice up your outfit, use accessories like jewelry, scarves, or bags. A necklace always does a great job of making an outfit look classier, and patterned scarves are good for adding color to a neutral-colored outfit.^{[25]XResearch source}
- For example, wear bracelets or watches with shorts and a T-shirt, or put on a green plaid scarf to add color to a gray sweater.
- If you wear glasses, pick out a pair of stylish frames that you think will make your outfits look more interesting.

Expert Q&A

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Question
What can I do to make my lips look better?
Melissa Jannes
Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator
Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. Melissa is also a National Educator for Universal Companies. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania. Melissa won the "Best of Beauty" award from Allure magazine in 2012 for the quality of her bikini waxing.
Melissa Jannes
Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator
Expert Answer
Lip gloss is always a really fun option! You can also use lipstick if you'd like. Lipstick is actually the best option if you want your lips to be more noticeable. It will also give the impression that you're wearing more makeup than you actually are if that's the kind of look you're going for.
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Question
How do I keep my makeup looking good when it's hot out?
Melissa Jannes
Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator
Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. Melissa is also a National Educator for Universal Companies. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania. Melissa won the "Best of Beauty" award from Allure magazine in 2012 for the quality of her bikini waxing.
Melissa Jannes
Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator
Expert Answer
Pick up a product called mattifying primer. Put that on before you apply any makeup. It will keep your makeup from absorbing into your face, so when you sweat, the makeup won't smear.
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Is it okay to wear a lot of makeup in high school?
Melissa Jannes
Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator
Melissa Jannes is a Licensed Esthetician and the owner of Maebee's Beauty Studio in Philadelphia, a single practitioner space providing quality services with individualized attention. Melissa is also a National Educator for Universal Companies. She received her esthetics degree at The Beauty School of Middletown in 2008 and is licensed in both New York and Pennsylvania. Melissa won the "Best of Beauty" award from Allure magazine in 2012 for the quality of her bikini waxing.
Melissa Jannes
Licensed Esthetician & Brazilian Wax Educator
Expert Answer
I'd urge you to try wearing very little makeup when you're young. Less really is more. It's also just not good for skin in the long term, so the longer you wait, the happier you'll be with your skin years from now!
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Warnings

Make sure your outfits follow your school's dress code.
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If you are required to wear a school uniform, wear it. You can still add accessories to make yourself stand out.
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Don't go too far. Pick nice combinations. For example, it may not be nice to have big hoop earrings, a big messy bun, a crop top, and a long skirt.
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