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Back to school time is upon us, and that means back to school shopping! Who went back to school shopping as a kid? Growing up that was one of the few times we went clothes shopping, and we were always allowed to get a few new outfits.
Now, I don’t do a whole back to school shopping haul, but I do get myself a first day of school outfit every year.
While I don’t currently work as a teacher, my counselor wardrobe is the same as when I was a classroom teacher. The only difference, is now I find myself wearing more dresses…and less scarves. Remember when those were big?
Closet Staples for a Teacher Wardrobe
When figuring out my list, I looked at what I wear most often to work, and items that I can wear different ways. I love to find pieces that I can make a few different outfits with. I also like to find pieces that I can wear to work, but would also be great for taking the kids to the park or going out with friends. By finding outfits that are multi-purpose, it also helps me to stick to a smaller clothing budget.
Dresses
Dresses have become my go-to, as they are such an easy outfit! I don’t need to spend time finding a blouse to make my pants. Dresses are also easy to dress up or down. Throw on heels if you have a meeting, or if your school allows, tennis shoes for a more causal look. I didn’t wear many dresses when I taught elementary school, because I was always kneeling down to meet my students. At the high school level, I wear dresses all the time.
Cardigans
I’ll say it, I love a good cardigan! Throw them over a tank top to add another layer to your outfit, or keep one in your room. Take your dresses from spring to fall, by adding a cardigan, to get even more use out of those short sleeve/sleeveless dresses.
Dress Pants
A pair of black dress pants is an easy, everyday option. You can also get a fun print to add a little something extra to your outfit. If I wear a patterned pant, I’ll wear a solid print top, or a solid color tank and a neutral cardigan.
Flats
Perfect for being on your feet all day. I love my Sam Edelman flats. They are so comfy for everyday wear, and I like that the bow detail adds a girly touch.
Booties
A short heeled bootie is another great shoe option. I wear mine in the fall and winter, with pants, dresses, and skirts. Vince Camuto booties are my FAVORITE! I hate to pay full price though, so I usually get them NWT on Poshmark (check out my closet and use JOCIE110 to get $10) for a discounted price.
Casual Blazer
I feel like a casual blazer is a great way to make your outfit appear a little more professional, while still having a comfortable feel. I also like throwing on a cute blazer with jeans and tennis shoes for Jeans Days.
Leggings
I know some schools may not allow leggings, but leggings are an easy outfit basic. You can wear them under a dress, with a long top (covering your butt of course!), or with a cute top and a long cardigan (again covering the booty). They are expensive, but my Spanx leggings are my favorite ones to wear to work. I think the fabric makes them look more work appropriate.
Sweaters
Sweaters are probably my favorite piece of clothing to wear! I stick to light weight ones, because the temperature of a school is so unpredictable. I also like to throw them over dresses.
Jean Jacket
Like the cardigan, a jean jacket is a great way to add another layer to a piece. Throw on a tank, a midi skirt, and a jean jacket for a trendy teacher look.
Solid, Non-distressed Jeans
A must for everyone’s favorite day…Jeans Day!
Not a Fashion Blogger
I am by no means a fashion blogger, but my high schoolers often tell me they like my outfits…so that means something, right?!
Like anything, I think what’s most important is how you feel in an outfit. I like to wear things that make me feel good about myself, are comfortable for all day wear, can be worn multiple ways, and are budget friendly. Did you see how many ways I wore my black dress?
What are some of your favorite classroom outfits?