Anna Wintour, the editor of Vogue, has worn the same haircut since she was a freshman in high school. She always wears fitted sheath dresses, big sunglasses, and a coat.  Steve Jobs always wore a black turtleneck and black jeans. Diane Keaton often wears a white dress shirt, black pants, a belt, and  sometimes, a hat. These are just three notable people with a signature look that is timeless and reflects their personal styles. I think it’s smart to come up with a work uniform, or to say it a different way, a signature look, as a teacher. Since I am a teacher myself, I will share my personal work uniform and how I keep costs down while looking professional.

For starters, I want to remind you of my golden rule: BUY NICE OR BUY TWICE. That being said, you don’t need to call up our dear friend Coco Chanel to get well-made pieces for your new teaching wardrobe (plus, that would be hard since she is no longer living!) . Trust me, for a couple bills, you will be looking sharp and your students will be on their toes because you look like the boss that you are.

Disclaimer: Everyone has their own unique style and it is important to embrace who you are and express yourself through your clothing. What I do is just to make my life easier, but you do what makes sense for you.

My Personal Work Uniform:

1.  blazer or leather jacket
2. dress shirt or a blouse
3. neutral slacks (khaki, navy, black, olive, denim)
4. brown or black belt (depends on shoes)
5. dress shoes, loafers or sneakers (Fridays)
6. watch

I wear this outfit almost every day of the week. Over last two years, I have made a strong effort to invest in more high quality clothing so that I look sharp and won’t have to spend a lot of money on clothes in the future. I tend toward classic looks that don’t go out of style. It’s hilarious when I deviate from this outfit because the kids freak out. One time, I changed the pants for a skirt and each class was in an uproar about it. Sometimes, I wear heels, and the kids seem to go insane over that too… So, maybe I’m a bit too predictable?

Something I really believe: every teacher needs a suit. You will wear it a few times per year: parent night, parent-teacher conferences, important meetings, and other times. You will absolutely need it for a job interview or to interview other potential colleagues. It’s a sign of respect to your colleagues and employer and that you take your position seriously.

Have fun building your work wardrobe! Think about making a work uniform, seriously. Trust me, it saves me so much time in the mornings and evenings. It’s worth trying out.

Let me know what your teacher uniform is in the comments!

Class dismissed!