Dressed for Success

As I draw nearer to the start of my professional career, I realize that I'll have to reevaluate my wardrobe soon. As an educator, I should be "dressed for success," which aims to set an example for my impressionable students, setting myself apart from them.... at least that's what they tell me. I'm not too sure about how this plan to dress like a professional will fit with my current threads.

I like to be comfortable, with my style closer to dress casual, with a touch of fashionista. I've always pictured myself as one of those "cool teachers" from the movies who doesn't dress like a traditional teacher but isn't trying to dress too young either. A laid back vibe, but not too laid back. One thing I will have to watch is the low-cut shirts and sweaters, especially since I'll be teaching middle schoolers. [Thank God for layering tanks!] I have a substantial collection of shoes, but I'll have to invest in a pair of utilitarian, comfortable shoes--sensibility will have to become a priority over qualities like "cuteness" and "sex appeal." I don't want to be uncomfortable all day.

It's funny how the debate of what to wear to school doesn't end when one is standing in front of the classroom instead of sitting in a desk. Why do we put so much emphasis on what to wear? In my opinion, students spend too much time and energy on this. It is no surprise that I am an advocate for school uniforms. Should teachers have school uniforms too? Would I be able to dedicate more time into preparation or instruction if I wasn't worried about which shirt and shoe combination to wear? How can I expect my students to do something if I'm not willing to do the same?