I am new to this site, and I must say that I love the concept. As I embark on my 8th year in graduate school, I heartily agree that academic attire needs a fashion overhaul.

But as I review some of your older posts, specifically those marked for “teaching,” I wonder if some of the outfits you feature are a bit too casual . . ? My biggest challenge as a teaching assistant was to get my students to take me seriously, being so close in age to them. I earned their respect, in part, through professional dress. I worked hard to separate myself from them through clothing. Now, as a grad student/professor, I continue to see the value of professional dress in the classroom.

That said, I still know the financial difficulty grad students face. A stipend does not allow for a large clothing allowance, so it becomes necessary to shop at your Targets, Old Navys, and Gaps, where the clothes are cheaper – and often less professional.

Any thoughts on the level of professionalism that should be expressed via clothing in the classroom?

I’m curious what non-sequitur jewelry would look like?

Shoes can easily be contrasting…jewelry I find a little more difficult to contrast and still make it look good. I find that I always end up using jewelry and accessories that match.

Would love a tutorial, though!

Maybe that is a future challenge to Academichic…non-sequitur accessories!! :)