‘校服’ (xiào fú) literally means ‘school clothing’: ‘校’ (xiào) means ‘school’, and ‘服’ (fú) means ‘clothing’ or ‘garment’. Together, they refer specifically to the standardized outfit worn by students at a particular school. Unlike casual clothes, school uniforms are usually designed with a school’s colors, logo, or emblem, and often differ between primary, secondary, and high schools. They may include blazers, ties, skirts, trousers, or polo shirts — depending on season, gender norms, and regional policies.

In China, wearing the school uniform is typically mandatory during school hours and official events, reinforcing school identity and reducing socioeconomic visibility among students. Some schools update their uniforms every few years, while others maintain traditional styles for decades. Uniforms may also be worn during school trips or ceremonies, but are generally not worn outside academic contexts unless required by specific rules.