Work Appropriate for Who? Featuring Jessica, the Middle School Teacher

I’m really excited to share today’s interview because it’s with a blogger I have a serious blogger crush on. I’ve been reading Jessica’s blog for a while, through graduate student work, an engagement, wedding, and now in her new life as a teacher. Throughout all of these things her style has been impeccable, affordable, oh and I did I mention that she’s a scientist, teacher, AND fashion blogger? Seriously, go check out her blog if you haven’t already.

Jessica S

Here&Now 

26

Day Job – Teacher

7th Grade Science Teacher

A local Nashville Middle School

“Snappy Professional” (Rules: no shoulders, no sandals, skirt/dresses must be no more than 3 inches above the knee)

Pencil skirts, blazers, ballet flats, layers, as it is freezing one second & boiling the next!

J.Crew Factory, ASOS, Ann Taylor, Old Navy

Little by little. I like to add a few professional pieces each season, paying close attention to their “remixability” with what I already have hanging in my closet.

I didn’t realize how much teachers move, even at the upper Middle School level – picking up pencils, reaching the top of the board, walking in front of the class. Women in my profession should not wear anything too short. I do a “bend, squat, lift” move every day to check my outfit.

The power of a tailor! You want to feel comfortable in your clothes. If you have to re-adjust your shirt/skirt/whatever all day long, the focus is going to be on your ill fitting clothes, and not the super amazing things you are saying/stellar work you are creating.

Just start with the basics. It is amazing how far a great pair of black pants, a crisp blazer, and some power shoes go for making me feel professional and put together. When you are just starting out, you want people to respect you first and then see that you have a personality through your clothing choices.