Teacher Clothes

These outfits are pretty representative of what I wear to work at this time of year.

Something short sleeved, whether a cottony shirt or something button-up. It will be either a solid bright colour, or some neutral stripes.

If the neckline is just a bit too low, then I add what we call at my school a 'teacher panel'; a camisole or shirt underneath to hide any cleavage. Can't be teaching teenage boys with any cleavage popping out.

Sometimes I'll add a pinstripe vest, a blazer, or cardigan. The climate is so different in the school from room to room, so the layers are necessary.

Then there are work trousers, or walking shorts, or occasionally a skirt.

I'm on my feet ALL day long, so flats or similarly comfortable shoes are a necessity. I own shoes very similar to these 3 pairs.

Then I usually add a long necklace or a silver cuff bracelet or a headband or something like that.

Nothing too exciting, but that's what I feel comfortable in. My style is generally more classic/casual. I shop at mall stores like RW & Co, Le Chateau, Smart Set, Jacob, Costa Blanca, and of course H&M.

Sometimes I'm shocked at what other people deem 'work appropriate'. Obviously it depends on the workplace. No one wears a suit to work at a high school - our dress code is 'business casual'. But I've seen teachers come in wearing old jeans and tank tops. I only wear jeans occasionally on Fridays. The phys ed teachers are given more leeway, and they mostly wear track pants and t-shirts.

I try to take care with what I wear, especially being a younger teacher. When I started, I was sick of hearing, 'you could mistaken for a student yourself!'.

I wish I was more stylish sometimes. I have a colleague, Miss E, who has the best sense of style. She somehow has the ability to walk around the halls all day wearing high heels. But at least I'm better than Miss Tank Top.