Figure 1.--There was a continuing trend in British schoolwear during the 2000s for casual styles. Some prep schools continued to have traditional styles.

Little information is available yet on 21st century trends, but HBC will be watching closely to try to find any emerging new trends. Most English secondary schools and some primary continue to require school uniforms although the subject is increaingly being debated. Many primary schools have increasingly casual uniforms. Even prep schools have adopted the more casual styles. One teacher reports in 2000 that in the school that he works it has been interesting to note that there has been a slight rise in the number of older students wearing grey shorts during the summer. Ties have been replaced by the more casual use of school emblem sweatshirts and traditional black school shoes are slowly being replaced by black trainers. Baseball caps are increasingly worn as a safeguard from the dangers of the sun. Almost every pupil now wears white socks where as not so long ago boys would object, considering them girlish! The now popular survey provide a very accurate picture of what English boys are wearing to school. Some question school uniforms, but they remain very common.

The 2000s

Many primary schools have increasingly casual uniforms. Even prep schools have adopted the more casual styles, but some continue to have traditional uniforms. One teacher reports in 2000 that in the school that he works it has been interesting to note that there has been a slight rise in the number of older students wearing grey shorts during the summer. Ties have been replaced by the more casual use of school emblem sweatshirts and traditional black school shoes are slowly being replaced by black trainers. Baseball caps are increasingly worn as a safeguard from the dangers of the sun. Almost every pupil now wears white socks where as not so long ago boys would object, considering them girlish! An fashion observer in 2004 reports Government schools proposals, "All secondary schools in England and Wales are being encouraged to have a uniform, and sort pupils into houses. This provides a skool with a chance to establish a new identity. The uniform should reflect the ethos of the school and the standards expected. Giving pupils, identity and pride in the school. A few members of this and Other related groups, ie parents' teachers, governors etc now have an Opportunity to establish a new uniform."

The 2010s

Related Links: Careful this will exit you from the Boys' Historical Clothing web site, but both sites are highly recommended

Apertures Press New Zealand eBook: New eBook on New Zealand schools available

Boys' Preparatory Schools: Lovely photographic essay of British preparatory schools with some over 200 color and black and white photographs depicting the schools during the 1980s

Apertures Press British Prep Schools eBook: New eBook on New Zealand schools available

School Uniform Web SiteInformative review of British school uniforms with some excellent photographs

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Created: November 11, 1999
Last updated: 7:14 PM 4/27/2007