Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/1017146
Megan Forbes and La Tawnya Robinson came together with several other educator vloggers for Teacher Appreciation Week in May. Each person drew a name of another in the group, but kept it secret and shopped for a week's worth of goodies specifically tailored to their giftee. Themes for each day 's gift: Day 1: Note and small item celebrating the educator. Day 2: Book the giver or their students greatly enjoyed. Day 3: School supply you can't live without. Day 4: Treat to eat. Day 5: " The big reveal" — something special just for the giftee, along with a card identifying the giver. Each person made a video of themself opening their gifts. See Robinson's video at tinyurl.com/SmartieStyle-5gifts; Forbes' at tinyurl.com/TooCool-5gifts. The collaboration was a fun way to show and tell each other how much their colleague was valued and appreciated, and can be easily replicated by educators everywhere (even sans video). While her clothing tends to be in neutral shades, she brightens up her look by coloring her hair, which happens to be purple at the moment. "I do change my hair color quite a bit, and even with brightly colored hair you can look professional and fun at the same time." Iconic inspiration from @barbiestyle. Appreciate Each Other • Long, flowy cardigans that can go with a white or other solid-colored top. • Jessica Simpson jeans, which fit her curvy body type. • Long cotton dresses for hot days that provide freedom of movement and comfort. • Accessories galore to change the look of fashion favorites. "I love adding a belt or scarf or jewelry to my outfit. With accessories you can make your clothes look new, even if they aren't." • Blazers to dress up shirt and pants, which she calls her "going to the district office" look. • "Go to a store and look at the mannequins to see what coordinates well. I replicate things I see on mannequins that I wouldn't have thought of doing myself." • Avoid clothing that needs dry cleaning or ironing. • Find inspiration online through Pinterest, magazines, other vlogs (current favorite: @barbiestyle on Instagram). • "Remember that you are a professional, and if you want people to perceive you that way, you must dress the part." • When shopping, search for clothing to mix and match with items you already own. • Visit stores as seasons change, for discounts and clearance items. fashion advice favorite styles La Tawnya Robinson (continued): 34 cta.org BTS 2018 s p e c i a l i s s u e