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SLT - Outfit ideas for looking smart in new school role

2 replies

Downing4packsofharibo · 13/09/2025 10:08

Ive just been promoted to a senior level teacher in my small school. It’s a secondary semh.
It’s quite a casual school as lots of TA’s, youth workers and tutors on site. Pupils do lots of activity and outdoor stuff. I am in charge of core subjects to won’t need to do this, but may need to run around after them so need comfort.

I’ve also lost 7stone in the last year (size 20 - size 12) or so so all my regular teacher clothes are now 8 sizes too big for me and quite old fashioned or just based on what I could fit into.

Ive bought a few bits for the summer term - wide leg thin jersey trousers, long sleeve tops and sandals were a bit of a uniform.

The building is also freezing and sometimes I spend a fair bit of time in the car park coaxing a pupil back inside. I’m also quite short and early 30s so a bit of power dressing would help, without veering into looking like a solicitor.

Theres a female deputy head but she dresses more like an aunt at a wedding than I would like and is often struggling in her shoes.

TLDR - size 12, 5”4
need comfy shoes & warm smart clothes!

OP posts:
StrawberryPi · 13/09/2025 18:27

I love a midi dress for work - choose silhouette for your body shape and pair with tights and smart flat boots for winter. Also smart wide leg trousers with a thin, close fitting turtleneck and a smart boxy shape cardigan or jumper on top. I also like a smart tweed or cord pinafore shape dress (go for straight rather than too fitted to avoid the aunt-at-a-wedding look!) with either a simple long sleeve top, shirt or polo-neck underneath. Again thick tights and boots with this!

PensionPuzzle · 13/09/2025 18:41

I'm a similar build and have also worked in SEMH. I think you can't go wrong with a loafer type of shoe or a flat boot, tailored trousers and make your top the 'interesting' bit of your outfit. I also liked a jumper dress as they suited my shape and looked smart but I could still do all the physical stuff if need be. Stuff that you can do the legwork in but also stick a blazer or similar over the top for meetings etc would be my train if thought.

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