practical smart wear for health care setting

[everynameseemstobetaken]

So, I've started a new job managing a large residential care home. I need to look smart and professional, yet be able to walk miles round the home each day and deal with medical emergencies as they arise. Prior to this I've been able to get away with jeans in previous jobs and so I don't have a clue what to wear.

I'm 5.7, size 10-12 and would prefer not to spend too much on any individual item as a)can't really afford it and b) it's likely to have hard treatment due to the line of work. I also feel cold easily so like warmer stuff and pockets are a bonus to carry pens and scraps of paper around in!

Suggestions and help from other people who maybe work in a similar area welcomed!

I've never done that job, but as a nurse I've seen a lot of people who do.

They wear black trousers from M&S, a blouse and some sort of jacket. Doesn't have to be an "officey" jacket, and colour is fine, but it is the done thing.

Shoes are always sensible black rubber soled ones from Clarks or Ecco. Very high heels are a no-no in case you have to run in a medical emergency. Oh, and no gel nails or blingy rings as hand hygiene is key.

I'm not in the caring profession (congrats on the new job!), but it sounds like you could make a few tweaks to make your usual attire a bit smarter whilst still being practical and comfortable.

A few pairs of capri trousers like www.next.co.uk/g7w5076s1#670688g7w'these could be good- they'd look good with plain cotton tops which are economic to replace, such as these from M&S. I should know, I've had to replace many a top after biro incidents. I have a few pairs of slim fit trousers which have a pattern ( example ) and are therefore good at camouflaging accidental spillages. Look for pairs with pockets. H&M, Tesco and GAP also do plenty of styles like this, can be bought for £15 or so if you have a look in the first two.

For warmth I have a few thick knit cardigan things like this from Reiss. They're structured enough to look smart and business-like, but still keep you nice and toasty. I always buy stuff from there in the sale though, good stuff but bloody dear.

For shoes I would try and get the comfiest pair of black ballet pumps I could find, preferably with arch support and a thick, rubber role. I've been in a few care homes with work and there's Lino everywhere, so you want something with decent grip I'd guess. You may want to look at Hotter Shoes....before you judge me, these and these aren't completely heinous. Keep a pair of heels under your desk if you fancy for meetings or appointments such as these pointy courts from Next. Not too high a heel. They're good for cheap work shoes generally as they have half sizes which is unusual for that price bracket. M&S also do half sizes another reason I love the place.