What to Wear: Summer styles for preschool teachers

I’ve shared some tips about dressing professionally (and appropriately) for preschool before, so today I want to tackle what to wear when you have to teach all summer long.  I’ve always had to work year round, and I know that summer can bring some special challenges. Not only is it hot hot hot, but you want to spend a lot more time outside – which usually means getting dirtier than you might in the classroom.  Here are some of my current favorites for wearing to work – I actually own all of these, and I’ve chosen them because they are professional-looking without breaking the budget.  They all wash well and are lightweight and easy to wear!

My number one problem in the summer is that it can still be really cool when I leave the house in the morning, and it doesn’t warm up until later in the day. I also happen to be one of those people who is always too cold in an air conditioned room, so layers are my secret weapon.  Bright colored cardigans instantly complete any outfit and my current favorites are from So Perla (1).  I’m also a huge fan of the chambray shirt trend, the one I’ve been grabbing regularly is this SO version (3) from Kohls.

A great tank top can make or break a summer outfit.  The mixed media tank (2) from Loft is perfect. It looks dressy on it’s own or layered, and it can be worn with jeans, or dress pants.  I have this tank in four colors and my favorite way to wear it is tucked into a cute skirt.

Dresses are what I live in all summer long.  They are easy, and comfortable, but you have to be careful when selecting dresses for work.  You don’t want them to be too short or too casual, and if you’re playing with little ones you have to be able to move in them.  The striped shift dress (4) from So Perla is honestly the most comfortable dress I’ve ever owned, and the length is perfect!the last two dresses are from Target.  Target is my favorite store for dresses because they always have the basics at the best prices. I don’t worry about ruining these at work because they are inexpensive, but they don’t look cheap! The A-line Merona (5) dress is comfortable and looks great dressed up with a blazer but I can also wear it with flip flops.  I’ve saved the best for last, the textured t-shirt dress (6) is a classic.  It’s also easy to dress up or down, and the extra length in the back is perfect.

None of the brands mentioned above sponsored this post in any way, I really do own and love all of these pieces! Working in the summer time is hard enough, I fully believe in the power of a great (and comfortable) outfit. I’d love to know what some of your favorite pieces for summer are too!