Over the last year, we’ve all learned a lot. One of the most immediate and biggest takeaways was how “essential” so many job positions were and how many of these workers went underappreciated from the people that stock our grocery shelves and make our precious to go lattes to nurses and the people that operate our public transportation getting us to and from work and home safely from routine errands. The topic of how to show more appreciation for these types of workers is another conversation and article altogether. And, while those who work in specialist roles in hazardous environments may have to wear a mopp suit as part of their job, many people in everyday essential fields are also required to wear some form of uniform, and this conversation is all about how to look effortlessly chic even when you’re required to wear a uniform for work or school!
Devils in the Details
Not all uniforms are created equal. Some are entirely monochromatic, while others pair a top (of the organization’s color choosing) with a bottom that has to be in a specific color palette – think khaki pants/skirts or black slacks/skirts. This is also applicable to scrubs that nurses and technicians are required to wear as well. If you fall into this category, then the devil is certainly in your details. If you’re trying to show your sartorial flair in a relatively monochromatic uniform, start with your accessories. Chunky bracelets or flashy earrings work well to show your individual style. If you wear ties, consider a bold and statement-making one. Playing on hairstyles is a great way to show your personality. Thankfully, there’s a literal treasure trove of “how-to’s” online. Just a quick search on Youtube or Tiktok has users by the millions there to train you on new updos and braids for free. So, stick with the details, mainly around your face, hair, and neck area, to stand out from your coworkers.
From the Ground Up
Depending on who you ask, shoes might be the first thing that people look at when sizing up another person’s outfit. From sneakerheads to business people, shoes are definitely a whole culture all on their own. There are many places that require you to wear a particular type of shoe while you’re working. While a “no open toe” policy is standard even in a clothing store for employees’ safety, more stringent guidelines exist in other work environments. Doctors and nurses, for example, frequently opt for super supportive athletic shoes or clogs designed for long hours on their feet. If you work in a kitchen, you may have a hard time finding stylish slip-resistant work shoes for women, but they do exist. Next time you need to buy a new pair of work shoes, consider searching for a pair that better matches your out-of-work style that still complies with company standards. You can also go DIY and bedazzle your work-compliant shoes if you’re feeling crafty or “extra.”
Makeup
If you’re like a lot of people, you may not even leave the house without a certain amount of makeup on. Hello, under-eye concealer! Maybe you’ve been blessed with the face and skin of an angel and don’t need a stitch. In either case, using a little makeup that you wouldn’t typically wear on a day off can give your uniform the boost you want. Boosting your appearance could be as simple as a bold red or pink lipstick to going all-in with foundation (bought through https://tartecosmetics.com/shop/makeup/face/foundation-tinted-moisturizer/ or similar websites), concealer, mascara, and extra bright eye shadow colors. Eyes are the centerpiece of your face, so an extra coat of mascara can go a long way, and if you already are a mascara fan, falsies or lash extensions can be tons of fun! Don’t neglect your eyebrows either! They are genuinely the frame of your face and convey a lot when it comes to emotions, so take time to groom them how you like having them and consider filling them in with a powder to boost their natural shade.
The critical thing to remember is that, while once considered a “bummer” to have to wear for school or work, uniforms are nothing to fret over and actually have many positives to them. For starters, you don’t have to worry about what you’re wearing to school or work that day, and you don’t have to invest as much money in a job or school wardrobe, which is a money saver. They also signal to the rest of the community how you are essential to us and probably get you some head nods, waves, and thank yous while you’re out and about in them. Uniforms on their own are just fine, but if you were looking for ways to show your sartorial streak while wearing them, hopefully, you found some excellent tips here. Thank you again; you’ll never need to remind us again how essential you are, we see you, and we appreciate you!
