Capsule Wardrobe for Middle School Principal

nancy

My friend has asked me for help in putting together a wardrobe capsule that would be appropriate for her as a middle school Principal She is 40 years old, athletic, and leans toward a bohemian/hippie style attire. Her body type is athletic, broad shouldered and muscular. I love her current style but realize she needs to up her game but still be herself. YLF has always been an inspiration for me even thought I don't contribute. Your advice/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

She's about 5'4", beautiful long auburn hair and glowing complexion.

3 years ago

Dressing

12 replies

Latest reply was from nancy

Sal

Veteran

From what you have said a couple of things that came to mind...

Here is a start

- longer midi pleated skirt x 1
- midi dress x 1
- tailored pants x 2
- polished patterned blouses x 2
- fine gauge knit sweater x 2
- blazer x 1
- ankle boots x 1
- tall boots x 1
- great coat x 1

Just my thoughts And congratulations are in order too!!

3 years ago

Echo

Veteran

Does she have a preference for skirts/dresses vs pants? How formal, overall, is her building? Even though our building is casual as far as staff goes, most of our admin team is in business attire (suits). I think knowing the level of formality is an important first step before going further.

3 years ago

Runcarla

Veteran

Sal provided a good list. An all purpose blazer kept on a hook behind her door can be thrown on over just about any outfit to add a note of gravitas.

3 years ago

cat2

Veteran

Public or private?

3 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

I went to hippie bohemian school. I remember my headmistress as wearing handwoven shawls and sensible shoes and that it was effective. Rather Kate Hepburn at the lake house. Lot of running around with a squash racquet as well.

3 years ago

Joy

Veteran

A good friend’s sister was a middle school principal before retiring. She liked wearing Eileen Fisher things. Be sure the hairstyle is mature and oozes maternity and authority. If she wants to keep it long she may need to figure out how to wear it up.

3 years ago

Stagiaire Fash

Veteran

Can you show us some of what she does wear, with some comments on what seems to work or not?

3 years ago

Anonymous

I can picture something like this- texture, leather, tweed, and rich fall colors. https://youlookfab.com/2018/01.....in-winter/
In warmer months lots of linen!

3 years ago

Helena

Veteran

I love Sal's list and would just suggest adding a few more tops to the rotation, to avoid laundry issues!

3 years ago

Jonesy

Veteran

These are great suggestions so far! I would want to know what she already has, wardrobe-wise (and what works for her already/what she wants to keep/what gaps she has identified), what her budget is, and whether or not she loves variety or is happy with a few high-quality pieces that can be mixed and re-mixed. Her climate is also key! So many variables :)...

3 years ago

Glory

Veteran

Sal has provided a great list. I would add dark rinse straight cut jeans for Friday casual. A smart blazer. A scarf.

3 years ago

nancy

Active Member

Thanks so much to all of you. I knew I came to the right place! Your ideas and comments have been very helpful. Once I've gone through her current wardrobe (which isn't much) I'll keep you updated. More ideas are always welcome. She likes mustard, turquoise, black. What about linen trousers? Also, her school is public serving 6th and 7th graders this year and adding more grades later.

3 years ago

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