“I’m a day-care worker, & I dress a little lazily…”

dear apricot,

I’ve have a problem… it’s the way I dress.

I work at a daycare part-time and feel like most of the parents mistake me for another parent because I dress very relaxed.  Often, I’m in a white v-neck Hanes shirt and either khakis or jeans and black Vans slip-ons.  As much as I’d like to be more adventurous with what I wear, there’s always the threat of glue, dirt, and everyone’s favorite, projectile vomit.  I’m never sure where to begin with my style since I have to consider my kids before I put something on.

I guess I have kinda like a indie kid thing going on with a hint of lazy bum.

Help!

— Erica.

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Hi Erica,

There is absolutely nothing wrong with dressing comfortably at your job as a daycare worker, especially when you have so many random bodily fluids to deal with. But if you’re looking for different ways to spice up your current look, I think I have the perfect solution for you.

When I worked as a hairstylist, we had a dress code, & it was that we must wear all black. I found that so boring, & was determined to stand out amongst my co-workers in some way (because we all looked the same). So, I relied heavily on colorful shoes (flats, because I was always on my feet), scarves, & funky earrings. It completely turned my outfits around, & I always looked put together, unique, but still professional. People would often compliment me on the way I looked, but I didn’t do hardly anything!

While you don’t have a dress code, I think it’s okay for you to continue wearing basics like white t-shirts, jeans, & khakis. Those are perfect foundations for an intriguing outfit once you dress it up with some interesting accessories.

Instead of wearing Vans’ slip-ons, buy a few pairs of comfortable, colorful flats. They have the same kind of appeal (they slip on, & they’re very comfortable) but they’re much more elegant, & not so laid back. Also, be on the lookout for pretty, dangley earrings; perhaps some that match your shoes! & if long earrings aren’t your thing, there are plenty of button-style earrings that are comfortable, but still unique. Lightweight scarves are another way to make a statement in your ensemble, without doing much.

Adding some color/patterns to your seemingly boring outfits will make you stand out. You’ll feel stylish, but still ready & able to tackle the dirt, the glue, the tears, & the barf. & I’m sure your kids will get a kick out of seeing your colorful earrings & shoes, as well.

I hope this helps some. Happy shopping!

— apricot.

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