Issue link: http://educator.cta.org/i/81027
Chavez discovers her professional side: One of the things I realized… is that I can be myself and not compromise who I am — and I can still dress professionally. I also learned… that sometimes it pays to invest in a few quality pieces, like this jacket, which goes with everything. I never would have… selected this outfit for myself. I usually wear longer, looser tops. But the diagonal pattern is very flattering and offers coverage without adding volume. I'm going to wear my new outfit on… the first day of school. I can hardly wait. When I wear this outfit, my students will… see me as the professional that I am. They'll see a change in me. I have a new perspective now. The clothes… Macy's: shirt ($42) and pants ($44.98) by Alfani; jacket ($79.60) by INC. Five fashion tips for teachers A slight flare or boot-cut pant leg flatters, elongates and visually slims your legs. If you are curvy with a rounder waist, look for diagonal lines in your top, which can help you look slimmer. Put light, bright and/or shiny colors on ar- eas you want to draw attention to, highlight- ing your best features. A well-fitting jacket camouflages a multi- tude of figure flaws, looks professional and is very versatile. For men, wear your pants at your natural waist, even if you are a bit rounder in the tummy, and avoid wearing pants below your stomach, which may mean having to go up a size and getting a slimmer leg. Orene Kearn, image consultant Julie Chavez CESAR CHAVEZ ELEMENTARY, United Educators of San Francisco A special education teacher for K-5 students with mild to moderate disabilities, Julie Chavez is a nurturer by nature, who gives students encouragement and praise to boost their confidence. Putting others first means this teacher doesn't always take time for her- self. She typically shows up for work in jeans, a T-shirt and tennis shoes. She was a little nervous about finding plus-size fashions that would be comfortable, flattering and styl- ish, and was pleasantly surprised that the diagonal, tiered, form-fitting top was more flat- tering than the tunic-style blouses she usually wears. The cutaway jacket offers a dressier look. The black pants, she says, are stretchy and as comfortable as jeans. September 2012 www.cta.org 21