I’m Ashley, the author of Teacher Dress Code.
Growing up on one of the United State’s smallest towns (probably smallest 10%) allowed me to spend much of my days daydreaming about being a “grown up.” I always dreamed of two different careers: being a special education teacher or working in the fashion industry. A University of FIDM?
To be totally honest, my heart was set on being a teacher the entire time. I grew up like many of our students receiving free lunch and having a laundry list of responsibilities, none of which involved just being a student. My senior year, I had enough money to apply to two colleges: University of Washington and FIDM. With a 3.2 GPA and a 1350 on my SATs, The University of Washington took a risk and sent me an acceptance letter. I can’t even imagine what my life would be like if it wasn’t for the UW believing in me.
I am now in my third year teaching where I proudly hold the title of Special Education Teacher. My heart and soul resides in title schools and within all the chaos of teaching, I still look forward to going to work every day.
During my internship and student teaching, I felt I had to fashionably confirm to the teacher style stereotype. After two years of pencil skirts + flat ensembles, I finally found my true teacher style.
To me, teacher style doesn’t only include the clothing you wear. Teacher style includes your beliefs, your mindset, your passions, and your teacher fashion. In teaching, I see so many people comparing themselves to others– it’s not about their style, it’s about your style.
Pops of color and animal print mixed with timeless neutrals is how I would describe my girly chic style. Adding new pieces from Target, Old Navy, Nordstrom, to the cute little boutiques around Seattle is my favorite Sunday Activity. Combing my belief in all students, especially the ones who exhibit extreme behaviors, trauma-informed practice, doing all things with love and kindness, and building purpose for each student, is the teacher style I try to rock every single day.
Within the posts of teacher dress code, I hope you build, tune, or redefine your own teacher style. I can’t wait to get to know you!
-Ashley
Disclaimer: The Teacher Dress Code does not share personal information with third parties. The Teacher Dress Code is a part of several affiliate advertising & marketing programs. If you click and/or make a purchase through certain links on this site, I may make a small commission from it. I will always disclose if the post is sponsored. All images are property of The Teacher Dress Code unless otherwise noted. All opinions are my own. I will never post something that I do not own or would not own.
