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.
Name
Jessica S
Blog
Age
26
Job Title
Day Job – Teacher
Job Description
7th Grade Science Teacher
Organization Description
A local Nashville Middle School
What dress code was given to you when you began the job?
“Snappy Professional” (Rules: no shoulders, no sandals, skirt/dresses must be no more than 3 inches above the knee)
What do you generally wear to work?
Pencil skirts, blazers, ballet flats, layers, as it is freezing one second & boiling the next!
Where do you like to shop for work attire?
J.Crew Factory, ASOS, Ann Taylor, Old Navy
How have you developed your professional style?
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.
In your specific office, what is one thing you would tell a woman to definitely NOT wear?
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.
What is the best “dress code” advice you have ever received?
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.
What advice would you give to women starting in her career about dressing for her job?
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.
View other Work Appropriate interviews here and check back on Tuesday to see who I interview next!
