A capsule wardrobe for teachers
Marta Ābele
Being a teacher means your clothes have to help you do a lot - stand in front of the class in the morning, rush to a meeting in the afternoon and feel free and comfortable in between, without losing your personality. The same goes for nursery teachers, private tutors, after-school club leaders and every woman whose working day calls for a more relaxed, yet still stylish and well-put-together way of dressing.
This base capsule is made up of essential pieces that make it easy to create countless combinations for the whole school year. Versatile layers, comfortable yet feminine shoes and a few accents that bring the look to life - all so that you can open your wardrobe every morning with ease.
Our aim is to help women make getting dressed a joy rather than a source of stress. So that mornings are simpler and the result is a stylish, self-assured you!
Base piece categories
When your wardrobe is missing its base pieces, putting outfits together can be hard, and in the end you don't wear most of what is in your wardrobe at all. Although every client's capsule collection is unique, it is built on a proven system of 22 pieces.
Bottoms
- 1
Dark jeans
A cornerstone of a teacher's wardrobe. Classic and comfortable, easy to adapt for both the working day and free time. Pair them with a blouse and a blazer for a more formal look, or with a jumper for a more relaxed mood.
- 2
Coloured trousers
Fabric trousers in autumn and winter colours - neutral and warm, perfect for more elegant looks. They can be berry, olive green or any other rich, deep shade. The perfect way to bring colour into your wardrobe without losing a professional look.
- 3
Classic trousers
Classic and versatile - they work in every season with different tops. Choose black, navy or khaki trousers for a more stylish look. Not a fan of trousers? Add a skirt or an extra pair of jeans.
- 4
A neutral skirt
Choose one that is versatile and works across seasons and situations. It can be a denim skirt or a plain fabric skirt in a neutral shade. Go for a modest length, no shorter than the knee.
- 5
A printed skirt
A skirt in a cut, colour and print that suit you. Fun and versatile - it gives your outfits character and brings out your personality. It can also be a plain skirt in an accent colour. Not a fan of skirts? Add another pair of trousers or jeans.
Dresses
- 1
A simple dress
A simple dress in a neutral base shade. Wear it on its own or layer it up. Choose a length no shorter than the knee. Ideally, the dress can also be worn as a pinafore.
- 2
A printed dress
Striped, checked, floral or with an animal motif that is in fashion right now. Fun but still classic, so it works in the classroom. It must flatter your figure. Not a fan of dresses? A jumpsuit or a trouser suit is an ideal alternative.
Tops
- 1
A top
A simple sleeveless top or a strappy top - a versatile wardrobe base you can wear on its own on warm days or as a base layer under a blazer, cardigan or shirt. Choose the colour and cut to suit your body type.
- 2
A shirt
A classic shirt that is ideal for every day. It works in every season - as a layer or on its own. Any sleeve length and neckline will do, but it must fit well. Make sure you choose a fabric that suits your lifestyle.
- 3
A colourful blouse
In a colour that matches your colour palette. It can be plain or printed. A cut that flatters your figure. It goes perfectly with jeans or a skirt for both everyday and dressier looks.
- 4
A T-shirt
A comfortable, flattering T-shirt. Any sleeve length and neckline will do. It can be plain, patterned or printed. It does not have to be cotton.
Layers
- 1
A denim jacket
A classic that goes with almost every look. It gives an outfit a finished feel and is practical too - it keeps you warm when the air conditioning is on in the classroom or when autumn turns cooler. It works brilliantly with dresses, trousers and skirts and always adds a touch of youthful ease.
- 2
A neutral cardigan
One of the most practical and versatile pieces in a wardrobe. It gives any outfit a professional polish, making it right for lessons as well as more formal moments such as meetings or presentations.
- 3
A blazer
Choose any style and length you can wear with everyday jeans as well as with a dress or fabric trousers. A classic waistcoat works too. Not keen on blazers? Choose a cardigan instead.
- 4
A jumper
A versatile jumper in a neutral shade (beige, grey, white or black) that is easy to combine with skirts, jeans or smart trousers. It works in every season, as a base layer or on its own. Make sure the neckline suits your body type.
- 5
A statement cardigan
A great way to give an outfit personality and life. Patterns and textures add visual creativity to even the simplest outfit. Pair it with neutral basics so the pattern becomes the accent, or boldly mix it with other pieces to create a creative, stylish look.
Accessories and shoes
- 1
A pendant necklace
Adds subtle elegance and a finished touch to almost any outfit. It visually lengthens the silhouette by drawing the eye downwards.
- 2
Simple earrings
A quick and easy way to finish any look - they go with everything, everywhere.
- 3
A neck scarf or scarf
Adds colour and life to an outfit. Ideal as a seasonal accent.
- 4
A handbag
Stylish and roomy - perfect for a teacher who wants to carry everything she needs with elegance. Good-quality leather is easy to care for.
- 5
Lace-up trainers
Clean lines that go with dresses, jeans or skirts. Classic and modern at the same time.
- 6
Comfortable shoes
Court shoes, ballet flats or loafers. Comfortable, right for the classroom and versatile. Choose a neutral shade - beige, brown or black all work.
Before you buy something new
Always think carefully about whether it suits you in silhouette, style and colour, whether you feel comfortable in it and whether you can combine it with at least 3 things already in your wardrobe.
What next?
Now that you know which pieces you need every day, you can start transforming your wardrobe. It is time to turn what is in your wardrobe into an easy-to-use, functional capsule wardrobe.
We know a teacher's days are full and busy, and there is usually simply no time to go round the shops yourself. In a Style Box, a stylist puts together clothes and accessories that complete your capsule wardrobe. If you would like a stylist to choose clothes with your body type, colour palette and taste in mind, book an individual consultation.
Build a wardrobe that brings you joy!
