Last week someone asked me for my favorite basic clothing items for new professors/grad students. It was fun to think about my closet and draft my capsule wardrobe MVPs–here they are!
- The best t shirt
Tee (runs large, wearing a small)
Are we really surprised I won’t shut up about the Uniqlo U t shirt I’ve been wearing non-stop? It’s surprisingly difficult to find a tee that isn’t too sheer, too clingy, or too wrinkly. This shirt is none of those things, it’s nice and opaque and never shows bra lines. In other words, the perfect teaching shirt.
2. A cool belt
I’ve been reaching for this tie belt again and again. It has no hardware so it never creates a “do I wear silver or gold jewelry” question, and it can be tied at your waist, over a blazer, or at the hips. It’s versatile and looks modern with everything. Perfect for dressing up jeans!
3. The tote bag
I have 3 teaching bags I rotate between–2 are versions of the Madewell Transport Tote. I’ve worn one for 50 days and the other for 137 (!!!). Usually with an item like that I would have a creeping feeling of “should I buy another bag for more variety?” but my needs are totally met in the work bag category, it’s that good.
4. The best chino pants
If you work in a pretty casual environment, but still occasionally need to wear something besides jeans, these Everlane pants are my favorite (or this pair goes up to a 4X). They look office appropriate but somehow still fashionable. They’re my number 1 pair of pants for research fieldwork, because they blend in everywhere but still feel like me.
5. The best teaching shoes
The teaching shoes I reach for again and again–Sam Edelman loafers! They come in fun colors and patterns, yet they’ve never given me a blister, a rare combo! I found my pair on sale for $30 so watch for sales!
What would you add to the list? Hope the new semester is going well!
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