Top Ten MUST-HAVE closet essentials for TEACHERS

The school year has begun for us in Florida which means the end of summer sadness kicks in #werenotready. While most of the back to school ads focus on the kids’ wardrobes, us teachers need some wardrobe freshening up too!

My first year teaching I really wasn’t sure about what to wear to work everyday. I knew I needed clothes that were professional and functional but I felt kind of stuck in a boring routine. I scoured Pinterest for some ideas but there were only a few inspo pics at the time. If you’re a new teacher or just in need of a workwear closet reset, I’m here to help!

Most of my essentials are focused more on a business casusal workplace setting, but you could definitely dress these pieces up (add a blazer/heels) if your office is more professional. So here goes, my top ten must-have closet essentials to get you going for a successful school year ahead!

Flattering Pair of Black Pants

Now this may be a total given and a piece you probably already have in your closet, but these pants will take you far. As a teacher you want these pants to be comfortable and I prefer a high-waisted pair so you don’t have to worry about bending down.

These are my favorite pairs:

Neutral Cardigan

Perfect for chilly classrooms and for any top or dress that may not be “dress code” approved. Such an easy piece to layer over an outfit to totally change the look.

White Blouse

Can be paired with pants or skirts and is a great layering piece.

Comfortable dress

Now if you’re not a dress person you can totally skip this option but dresses are such a comfortable option! I personally love wearing maxi or midi dresses because you don’t have to worry about length. I utilize a lot of summer dresses with a cardi or denim jacket to switch up the look.

Denim Jacket

Definitely one of my most worn pieces. I love throwing it over a dress or with a top and black pants. Such a great layering piece.

Comfortable Neutral Shoe

For me these are my go-to flats, but a good sandal works too! Especially here in Florida where it’s hot most of the year. Comfort is key because you’re on your feet so much.

Non-Distressed Denim

Now our school only allows jeans on Friday and I take full advantage of wearing them. I definitely say go with a high or mid waisted pair to save yourself from constantly pulling them up.

Pop of Print

Whether this is a top, a pair of shoes, or skirt you will wear a print way more than you think. I wore a leopard top and my snakeprint mules just as much as a white blouse. The print acts as a neutral but feels more fun!

Layering Cami

I like to utilize my everyday weekend wardrobe for work to make the most out of my pieces. While this is totally fine, some blouses that are good to go on a Saturday night might need some extra coverage for work. Having some good, neutral layering camis are great to put under those lower cut, sheerer tops for work.

Your go-to feel good outfit

This last essential is tailored to you. We all have those mornings where we can’t seem to get out of bed, let alone get up and get dressed. These are the days when we need to have our go-to outfit that we can throw on without thinking and run out the door. It’s something we don’t have to think about or try on, it’s just good to go.

Having this outfit, top or pants, whatever it might be ready to go will save you on those days!

To save me time in the morning I always try to lay out my outfit the night before. It’s helpful when I’m in a tired fog and just need to get dressed and out the door!