To say teachers have an important job is, of course, an understatement. Inspiring young people and preparing them with tools for the "real world"—while often working off-the-clock to grade papers, make lesson plans, etc.—isn't easy. I am so grateful for the teachers who passed on words of encouragement to me. I wrap their words (about my writing, about my capabilities) close to me like a warm blanket when I'm doubting myself and my creativity. Teachers can be one of the bright spots in the craziness that is being young. ✨
This post is inspired by a sunny, book-loving Instagram friend of mine, Cassie (@bookishcassie). She's a teacher based in North Carolina who has a beautiful way with words (check out her brilliant personalized Tinyletter newsletter here). Cassie describes her style as "thrift shop Mrs. Frizzle." She says she's on the hunt for more good-quality, professional clothing. "I just don’t want to look like the Pinterest stereotype: colored cardigan with matching ballet flats. And I hate khakis of khaki color," Cassie says. Note taken!
Here, three simple ways to give your work wardrobe a bit of a refresh, while still looking profesh, being comfortable on your feet all day and, well, not being so trend-heavy that you're mistaken for a student (it happens!).
1. Go for a ruffled tee (or button-down)
A top that feels as comfy as a tee you'd wear on weekends—but looks work apropos? Yes, please! I love the one I'm wearing above, from Express (similar). If you're worried about it looking too casual, tuck it into a skirt or wear with black pants and flats. Or go with a ruffled button-down. Try these: ruffle-front blouse, white button-down with ruffles at shoulders, tiered ruffle pullover. Also, love this!
2. Slip on a pair of flat silver shoes
There's something about bright, metallic shoes that adds an automatic cool factor to anything you're wearing. Dip your toe in by keeping accessories and prints to a minimum with, say, neutral pants and an oversize button up (tuck it in at the front). Or go bolder by pairing them with your favorite dress (love the color of this one, and it has pockets!). Try these two-in-one loafer slides, these Italian-leather oxfords (so shiny you can practically see your reflection!), these designed-in-Paris glittery oxfords.
3. Make getting dressed a cinch with a jumpsuit
The best part about all-in-one pieces? You wake up, put it on and you've got a pulled-together look. Pair with flats and, if it's sleeveless, layer it with a solid black tee or turtleneck, or a simple blouse. (Remove the shirt and you're night-out ready!) Try these: plaid overalls, pink-crinkle with waist wrap, linen zip-up, wide-leg velvet, a flattering-on-every-body silk wrap.
Bonus: Wear your sparkliest, biggest going-out earrings to work. Sometimes the simplest things can give me a little mood boost! The ones I'm wearing above are from Baublebar (similar).
Hope you all have the best weekend! I'd love to know, if you're a teacher, what kind of style dilemmas do you have? (Not a teacher? I'd love to hear from you, too!) Comment selection is down below 👇🏼
Xoxo, Heather
P.S. Love this yoga routine for teachers. 🙏🏼