“Dress for Success”
It is a popular adage in Jamaica that “First impression lasts”. In the Practicum Unit, we encourage our student-teachers to not just display excellence in their pedagogical skills and competencies, but also their deportment and comportment, on and off campus. Having a good first impression is crucial to one’s perception of you. People, almost instinctually, begin to evaluate you as a person from the minute they see you. It is on this premise that how our students attire themselves is so important.
From the style, fit, colour and cleanliness of your clothes; to your choice of accessories; from the firmness of your handshake to your posture when standing or sitting; the manner in which you carry yourself; and the degree of your eye contact, enthusiasm and confidence, all impact your brand as a Miconian. Of particular importance is one’s clothing.
In today’s society, the clothing you select is a key indicator of your respect for yourself and the organization or institution you represent. The better you dress, especially during teaching practice, the more seriously you will be taken and considered in the professional world. Below are some general tips to assist our students when selecting clothing for professional events.
General Clothing Tips for Miconians
- Wear professional and conservative clothing. Choose apparel that has received favourable feedback from people who are knowledgeable about the industry standard.
- Ensure that clothing is clean, pressed and well-fitted.
- Wear conservative (dark) shoes that are clean and polished.
- Choose accessories that complement your clothing rather than distract from it.
- Remove facial and body piercings for all formal events being attended.
- Cover visible tattoos to avoid distraction.
- Keep fragrances and jewellery minimal.
- Make sure your hair is clean and conservative in colour and style.
- Less is more. Keep your look simple but classy until you become accustomed to the environment, if, for instance, you have just been employed at a new school or organization.
Tips for Miconian Women
- Acceptable dress includes a suit (formal blouse, skirt or pants) or a conservatively tailored dress.
- Traditionally, skirts should be knee-length. Slightly shorter or longer are also acceptable.
- Avoid transparent, tight-fitting blouses or sweaters with low necklines, revealing waistlines or details that detract from your face. Typically, arms are covered at least to the biceps and often to the wrist.
- Always wear plain-style, non-patterned stockings to interviews. The colour should flatter your skin tone. A neutral colour is always safe. For some industries, you may wear a stocking that coordinates with your skirt. Carry an extra pair in case of runs.
- Perfume should never be strong. A fragrance can cause an allergic reaction or offend the interviewer. When in doubt, do not wear perfume.
- Apply natural-looking makeup and clear nail polish. This keeps the focus on the interview.
- Do not carry a purse with a briefcase. Choose one or the other.
- Wear flat shoes or low heels in colours that avoid making your feet a focal point. Be sure your shoes are clean and polished. Avoid shoes that hinder walking fast. This lowers credibility. Avoid open-toed shoes since they are often associated with social agendas.
- Accessories express your personality and accentuate your best features. Keep it simple! Women in general tend to wear too many accessories, such as earrings, necklaces and rings. At the same time, these can accentuate your personality and can be an asset if worn in moderation. Avoid dangling earrings, and wear no more than one ring per hand and a dress watch.
Tips for Miconian Men
- Wear a matching suit in navy, black or grey (pinstripe or solid), or a navy blazer and grey dress pants.
- Select a white or light blue dress shirt that contrasts with the jacket and/or ties. Typically, arms should be covered to the wrist. Exposing arms by rolling up your sleeves is interpreted as less powerful and less formal.
- Ties should be made of silk or a silk-like fabric. The tie should coordinate with your jacket and pants, but it should contrast with the colour of your shirt. The half-Windsor is a good knot for just about any occasion or style of shirt. Visit tiepedia for more information about types of knots, how to tie them, choosing a necktie width, and much more. More tips on how to tie a tie.
- Socks should be calf-length or above the calf. Choose colours such as dark blue, black or grey.
- Select lace-up (not slip-on) dress shoes. The colour should be dark or should blend with your pants.
- Select a leather belt that visually blends with or matches your shoes.
- Wear a short haircut. No facial hair is expected.
- Minimize jewellery. Avoid a necklace. Wear no more than one ring per hand and a dress watch.
- Cologne should never be strong.
Please consult the Handbook for regulations on school attire for males and females.
