Kelly is doing a blog hop for fashion tips this week. I know I have several teachers-in-training that read my blog, so I thought I would do fashion tips for teachers!
Here's what I've learned so far about teacher clothes:
- Wear flats. Flats, flats, flats...I can't say this enough. I wore heels to work one day, and it was the most miserable day of my life. I have two good pairs of black flats and two good pairs of brown flats. I also have Sperrys and (when I can get away with them) Rainbows. I'd say those 6 pairs are the ones I wear 95% of the time.
- On a similar note, buy several good pairs of pants and mix and match shirts. I don't really skimp when buying pants. They don't go out of style, and the right colors (brown, black and gray) go with everything. Now I don't really spend a lot on shirts...mostly because they go out of style so easily. Spend a lot of money on the things that will last!
- I absolutely love Forever 21 for dresses and shirts. It is so super cheap, and they always have something cute for everyone! They also have a new line called Love21 that is more contemporary (i.e. older)...so you don't look like you're trying to be a teenager. Plus the sizes in that line always fit me better.
- Invest in one good pair of jeans. Most schools have a jeans on Friday policy, so you won't wear them that much. I don't skimp on jeans either...if you buy the right pair (and don't yo-yo diet like I have lately), they will last you for so long!
- Don't wear white/light colors...it just isn't a good idea, especially if you're in primary grades like me. You will usually have something on your clothes when you get home (mine is usually coffee from sucking it down as quickly as possible every morning).
- I consider this fashion, because it's really an accessory...get a good lunch bag. They have the insulated ones that are GREAT...especially if you forget to put your lunch in the fridge 70% of the time like me. Also, make sure it's big enough to fit what you eat.
- Don't get shoes that your children can play with...I have a pair of really cute flats that have a bow on them, and whoever is sitting in front of my chair always plays with the bow. Go simple, not busy.
- Avoid the teacher sweater at all costs. Especially at Christmas and (in my area) football season, these are popular. They just aren't flattering on most people (sorry if you're a teacher sweater fan...I'm just not). I had a teacher in college that was retired from the school system that, as a end-of-the-semester present, gave us all of her teacher flair - Christmas ornament earrings, Halloween pins, you name it. It was hilarious!
- And, last but not least...hand sanitizer is your best accessory. :)
