Dressing for Success is a mantra I cling to very closely. Performing in front of the school, mock job interviews, presentations, and other occasions will require my students to dress up in nice attire. I have seen some terrific attitudinal changes in students when they're dressed appropriately. Dressing up as a whole class strengthens the classroom community. If your child is hesitant that's quite ok, by the end of the year s/he will hit up your Target credit card without any hesitations. Down below is a suggested clothing list for each gender. Kmart, Target, and Macy's tend to carry these items for good prices. Of course, all of this is optional for a child.
BOYS
- Hair washed and combed
- No Cologne
- Hat: Bowler, Santana, Dobbs, Biltmore, Derby, Top hat, etc.
- A couple pairs of khaki, Cherokee, or suited pants: black, navy blue, brown, or gray
- Some collared, short sleeve or long-sleeve shirt (any color)
- A couple of belts, preferably one that matches their shoe color
- A nice pair of black and/or brown shoes
- Some nice sweaters (especially for winter)
- A sports coat, blue, gray, or black (please make sure excess lint or hair has been removed)
- A couple of different styled ties. Bow ties are completely fine. A tie clip is not recommended as they often look clunky and fall off quite easily. I have a few extra ties in my class and collared shirts.
GIRLS
- Hair washed and dressed
- No perfume
- Hat: Fedora, Floppy, Cloche, Church Hat, Beret, etc.
- Some dresses (any color)
- Some skirts that are in accordance with school dress code
- Cherokee pants: white, black, navy blue, brown, or gray
- Some nice sweaters
- Crewneck or V-Neck shirts are fine
- Nice collared shirts of any color
- Dress shoes that aren't open-toed
- Jeans are ill advised
- Shorts are ill advised