Ah, back to school. It conjures images of hours spent trying on what seems to be the same pair of ripped jeans or graphic t-shirts for hours in dressing rooms, hurried notebook and pencil shopping through packed aisles at Walmart and rustling through cabinets for (slightly musty) lunchboxes.
But for some, back to school isn’t just for the kids. Educators have to get prepped for back to school too, and not just any outfit works when you’re on the go with students all day. Enter what we’re dubbing “educator ensembles” — outfits that have the perfect balance of comfy and cute.
Columbia educators Aly Galbreath, assistant principal at Muriel Battle High School, Gemma Shipley, a Spanish teacher at Our Lady of Lourdes Interparish School and Jennifer Payne, a sixth-grade science teacher at John Warner Middle School model these effortless looks. Even if you’re not an educator, these fashion basics (read: must-haves) are perfect for dressing up or down. The most important thing? You’ll be looking good AND feeling good thanks to soft fabrics and forgiving waistlines.
Aly Galbreath
Linen-Blend V-Neck Cami Jumpsuit
in stonewall
Old Navy $39.99
Cropped Off-White Jean Jacket in ecru
Old Navy $39.99
Sorel Ella II Sandal in Ash Brown
American Shoe $80
Haute Shore Greyson tote in sahara
American Shoe $97
Shrake Lock Paper Clip Chain Necklace
Kelly Fields Boutique $38
Gemma Shipley
Universal Thread Ruffle Sleeveless
Eyelet Blouse in rust
Target $24.99
A New Day High-Rise Paperbag
Ankle Pants in cream
Target $27.99
Emmshu Tamie Mules in taupe
American Shoe $70
Budha Girl All Weather Gold Bangles
Kelly Fields Boutique set of 3 for $44
Gemma Shipley
Fit & Flare Sleeveless Tiered Midi Dress in Linden
Old Navy $32.97
Dainty Darling Necklace
Kelly Fields Boutique $44
Jennifer Payne
A New Day Sleeveless Ruffle Hem Dress in black
Target $27.99
Rieker Schwarz Sandal in black
American Shoe $115
enewton Athena small gold charm 16-inch necklace
Kelly Fields Boutique $68
enewton Hope Unwritten
15-inch choker in off white
Kelly Fields Boutique $38
Jennifer Payne
A New Day Long Sleeve Tie
Waist Shirtdress in teal stripe
Target $27.99
Everyday Neoprene Tote in grey
Kelly Fields Boutique $88
Rieker Schwarz Sandal in black
American Shoe $115
