Editing School uniforms in Japan (section)

===21st century===
As Japan entered the 21st century, educational reforms and societal changes led to the gradual standardization of school uniforms. Many schools moved away from sailor suits in favour of blazer uniforms, which were considered more practical and professional. These new uniforms typically featured pleated skirts, blazers, ties, and loafers for girls, while boys wore blazers with trousers and ties. The [[gyaru]] subculture of the 2000s, with its bold fashion statements, continued to influence school uniform modifications. However, as social norms tightened and dress codes became stricter, overt customization became less common. Instead, the focus shifted towards more subtle personalisation, such as varying the style of socks or adding discreet accessories.<ref name="Sailorsuit for Dummies"/>

{{As of|2012}}, 50% of Japanese junior high schools and 20% of senior high schools use sailor suit uniforms. The {{transliteration|ja|[[Asahi Shimbun]]}} stated in 2012 that, "The sailor suit is changing from adorable and cute, a look that 'appeals to the boys,' to a uniform that "girls like to wear for themselves." As of that year, contemporary sailor suits have front closures with zippers or snaps and more constructed bodices. The {{transliteration|ja|Asahi Shimbun}} stated that "the form is snug to enhance the figure—the small collar helps the head look smaller, for better balance."{{citation needed|date=January 2022}}

In the 2020s many Japanese high schools are pivoting to items such as gender-neutral blazers to accommodate LGBT students. However, the Serafuku remains popular and is still retained for female students.<ref name="Ono 2024"/>