Reader Questions! An academic professor capsule wardrobe

Today’s reader question is about how to build a women’s professor/teacher capsule wardrobe that would work for the year! Here’s what I would shop for if I was starting out as a new graduate student or professor looking for academic fashion!

Kaitlyn writes: “If you had to pick an iconic look with just 15-20 interchangeable pieces for the whole year as a professor, what clothes would you choose? I ask because I am in a doctoral program and looking for ideas for a capsule wardrobe for professors.”

This is a great question, and can definitely feel overwhelming when it’s back to school time and you are a new teacher. Here is what I would put on my women’s academic shopping list and what I would buy again based on what has stayed in my wardrobe for years. Of course, items are interchangeable based on your budget and preferences!

Tops

Obviously, you’re gonna need some shirts. I have a few fun statement tops in my closet, but they don’t get as much use as these tried-and-true staples:

A blazer is such an easy way to look professor-y quickly! I wear my black double-breasted blazer at least twice as often as any other blazer in my closet.

I like to keep at least one bodysuit around to wear under suits at conferences. This one would also look cute dressed down!

If you are looking for the perfect white tee to wear to the office, and your definition of perfect is enough coverage, not sheer, and generally sturdy, this is my current favorite option. It’s budget friendly, and the sleeve length is great if you are busty and looking for something to balance your look.

I recently purchased this linen button down and am pleasantly surprised by what a great layer it is. It will keep you cool in poorly air conditioned classrooms, and I like it layered over a tank top with dress pants as well!

I’ve also had a striped J. Crew button down in my closet since grad school and love how light it is. It’s definitely on the more professional side of my wardrobe, and it’s great for academic conferences!

I can’t believe I’m linking you to a stationary store but this Muji tee is so good I have two. Yes, an emerging pattern is that t shirts sold in the men’s department are better!

This tank top is my go-to for layering under button downs or to protect my sweaters. The square neck works with any neckline.

Pants:

Teaching pants can be annoying to shop for, but they are the foundation of getting dressed easily in the morning. Aim for a couple different shapes and levels of casual!

You need a pair of pants that make you feel like a boss. Fortunately, every store is making wide-leg work pants this year. This Abercrombie pair feels amazing on and looks super sleek!

Some version of Madewell jeans in off-black has been in my closet for years! They are a splurge but never get baggy, so they look nice and polished.

The pixie pants from Old Navy are a budget-friendly staple: they come in several inseams, many sizes and patterns, and a skinny or straight leg. Size up one size for the best fit!

Skirts and dresses

Whether your like skirts/dresses to teach is entirely your call. I like them, only if they are in no way fussy. That means I tend to pick sleeves and midi lengths so I’m never worried about my ability to move around the room!

I bought a version of this midi tee dress 3 years ago and wear it constantly, especially for non-teaching campus days (aka days I drive in for faculty meetings).

I’ve been surprised by how much I love a white midi skirt for teaching. It goes with everything and feels chic in all seasons!

This eyelet skirt is another nice option that would work for spring/summer!

Shoes. Killer shoes.

It has not escaped me that Kaitlyn asked us for an iconic capsule wardrobe, and I have found that the best way to add personality to teaching outfits is with the coolest shoes you can possibly find. Think texture, contrast, and fun colors. But, oh yeah, they need to be comfortable enough to stand in.

I once worked with someone who wore all black with bright-colored flats every day. She always looked awesome, and I’ve been looking for something like these pink Camper flats ever since. Camper definitely makes the cool shoes I covet right now, so I’m on the lookout for sales/secondhand deals!

A shiny loafer screams academic, yes?

A fun sneaker for feeling collegiate and comfy all day!

I’m at 16 items, so I’ll stop there (but if you want bags, too, here they are!). Now, let’s play around with some mix-and-match outfit ideas!

Teaching outfits

All business outfits

Chill outfits

There you have it! What else would you add to this capsule?

If you have a question you would like to see on the blog, please comment or email me here!

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