In my opinion, teachers either dress terribly or great and there’s not a whole lot in between (yup I said it)😳. Most schools allow for their teachers to be business casual. However, there are certainly teachers that take that word “casual” and run with it, because we have (non gym teachers) wearing sweats a few times a week. I think it’s important to show the students the importance of presenting yourself in a professional manner and not looking like one of them. I’ve been teaching for a while now and I’ve narrowed it down to 5 pieces of clothing all teachers need! If you’re looking for a job on Long Island, be sure to readTips for landing a job on Long Island
A Suit For Interviews
I don’t care what anybody says, you need to wear a suit to an interview. It’s the first impression people have of you and you want to make sure you show them you are professional and care about your appearance. I even do a project with my students where they go on mock interviews and tell them to wear a suit if they have it. I personally like to buy my suits as separates, so I can maximize usage. Check out some of my favs. below. The best thing about these pieces, is they come in many colors and can all be used as separates. I also suggest a short sleeved button down because you’ll be nervous and probably sweat under that blazer!😓
Blazer. | Pants. |Shirt:https://amzn.to/3vRuZ5e. (Affiliate link)
I’m also just loving this white button up off the shoulder: White button up off shoulder
A Good Cardigan
I swear no matter what teachers I talk to, the temperature in their classroom is never right! My air conditioning turns on in the winter 🥶 and in the warmer months it’s a crap shoot. I ALWAYS have something to throw on just in case because it could change on a dime. Also, cardigans are just great to throw on with tanks and sundresses and can instantly make your outfit more “school appropriate”.
My two budget friendly picks: Left:https://amzn.to/3uUSsB0. |Right:https://amzn.to/3xbfntF (affiliate links)
I have and loveeeee both of these. The one on the right is so cozy and I wear it all year. The one on the left I just got, but I wear it with so many different outfits!!
Left: Hippie cardi | Right: Cozy cardi
Comfortable Shoes
So, I’m not going to lie, when I started teaching I wore heels every-single-day!! 🤷🏼♀️ I will admit I now where my Birkenstock’s on some days! If you are starting off teaching, don’t do the Birks, but remember, you’re on tour feet all day long and I promise you, you’re feet are going to hurt if the shoes aren’t comfy.
I have these boots and they are so cute and on trend AND super comfy!! I have them in black, and really want one of the other colors, can’t decide which one though 🤔. BEST BOOTS
People also rave about all the shoes by Rothy, but I still haven’t jumped on that bandwagon! There’s soooo many to choose from, but since they’re all a little pricey I would go with the regular flats. I’m digging the cheetah and the charcoal colors. Rothy Flats
Good Black Pants
Black pants are a staple for sure! I wear black pants at least once a week. I have gone through many pairs and actually fall back on a pair that’s like 10 years old… literally. So, if you find a pair you like, splurge a little and you’ll get your money’s worth I promise.
This pair On the left I just love and this brand which I talked about in A New Trendy Brand For Regular AND Plus Size Women is so great! The pair on the right is great for a wider leg pant!!
Left:Open Edit Black Pants | Plus Size Version| Right: Wide Leg Black Pants (affiliate link)
Dark Wash Jeans
Dark wash jeans are a great way of looking dressed up when you just feel like wearing jeans. I wouldn’t suggest holes/rips if you are untenured lol (unless it’s subtle, or a casual Friday).
Rag & Bone is probably my favorite Jean brand because they are so comfy and fit me perfectly. I have a hard time with jeans and I feel like their’s are just always a good fit. Unfortunately, they’re expensive, but you will have them forever, they’re made so well! You can find them on sale at Nordstrom a lot, but you have to be quick because a sizes go like hot cakes.
Left r&b jeans:https://amzn.to/3vX17o6 (affiliate link)
Right Boyfriend jeans dark wash:https://amzn.to/3ppObVk (affiliate link)
Hope you found this post helpful especially if you’re just starting off in your career! Remember to always stay enthusiastic and don’t less other’s negativity bring you down. 😃 Also, if you have a week like I did, with a kid throwing up in class, a kid saying he didn’t know a project was due that we’ve been working on for a month, and of course nose picker girl back in full affect, STILL stay positive☺️.
All good work clothes!