One thing I did not think about when I started PT school is DRESS CODE. During orientation, my program went over what’s appropriate for class (i.e. Don’t look like you just woke up or have a hangover. Be presentable.). Fortunately, my program allows us to wear athleisure to not only labs but also in-class lectures. Otherwise, I wear scrubs for clinic days and a PT department polo paired with khakis for guest speakers or professional events. Considering I bike to school, the dress code is convenient for me.
Several months ago, I asked PT students on my Instagram story if they are required to wear professional attire. [Thank you, everyone, who did respond.] While most responded with “no,” there are some PT programs that are required to dress professionally primarily during in-class lectures. To the few of you responded “yes,” I messaged them directly to ask more specific questions:
- Does your program’s dress code have rules against particular items of clothing (ex. T-shirts, open-toe shoes, skirt lengths)?
- Rules can vary across all programs. No denim. Open-toed shoes must have a back. No logos on clothing. Skirts need to be reasonable (at knee) length. No spaghetti straps. T-shirts need to be a solid color.
- Do you find it inconvenient if you have to bring athletic clothes for lab days?
- Some see it as a hassle to bring an additional outfit to school and dress in the middle of the day.
- Do you feel restricted of movement/uncomfortable in class because of the professional dress code?
The answer to that last question? It depends! [Every PT’s favorite answer.] I would have to agree, which is why I have created professional, school-appropriate looks that I find to be fashionable with sacrificing comfort.
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Look #1: Political Powerhouse
2019 Texas Legislative Day: The day we went to the capital to talk to our state legislators about Direct Access for physical therapists. Yes, I walked around in heels all-day, but if you prefer black flats, that works too.
Blazer: H & M
Dress: H & M (alternative option)
Black Tights: Target
Heels: DSW
Look #2: Classic Clinical Khakis
I was invited to be a part of a speaker panel for the Alpha Eta Alpha Pre-Health Society at the University of Houston. This is the typical attire for student observers and working in the outpatient setting. The key is to find khakis that are comfortable. If you can squat in them, and there’s no buttock cracks or rips in the fabric, you’re good to go!
Polo: I purchased mine from my school’s fundraiser, but here’s an alternative option from Amazon. This is Dri-fit, which is comes in handy if you end up working a sweat.
Khakis: Old Navy
Shoes (not seen): It changes with my mood and style. I recommend
- Sperry’s/loafers
- BANGS Shoes
- Crocs sneakers
- or any walking or lifestyle shoe
Look #3: The Interesting Interview
We all get nervous during interviews, so ease your comfort by wearing clothes that are also comfy. I called this look interesting because the blouse is the softest, white + black plaid shirt. You don’t have to wear the crisp white button up to look professional. Also, the pants don’t have to be slacks, you can pull off stretchy, legging-like business pants as professional.
Blazer: same one from Look #1
Plaid: Old Navy (alternative option)
Pants: You can find them at any department store (TJ Maxx, Marshalls), but here’s an option from Macy’s.
Shoes: These shoes are second hand, but these are my favorite black flats from DSW.
While interviewing students, one mentioned the benefit of having a professional dress code, which is building up your personal professional wardrobe. I think that’s why schools instill professional dress codes in the first place – you can still wear the clothes when you become a physical therapist. Even if you chose to work at a clinic that makes you wear scrubs, professional attire can be worn at work conventions or different volunteer opportunities. Also, you may have noticed that I reuse certain articles of clothing throughout the different looks. Items such as a black blazer, khakis, and button-up top are truly essential to any closet and professional wardrobe.
While I like to preach on sustainable and ethical fashion choices, I also understand that not everyone has that kind of budget to make investments. I encourage you to find secondhand options at your local thrift store, online consignment shops (ThredUp, Poshmark, etc.), or your friends + family. Additionally, brands like Athleta, Allbirds, Eileen Fisher, and Patagonia are considered certified B corporations that provide apparel + footwear for any PT while working towards sustainability.
I hope you find outfit inspiration or a new addition to your professional wardrobe. I intend to make more lookbooks in the future. As always, you can find more fashionable looks on my Pinterest page and follow me on my journey #forthedpt via Instagram.
Sincerely,
Jordaine Enriquez, SPT