‘Look Good, Feel Good, Do Good.’

What happens when you bring together a fashion stylist and a stylish teacher? You get a uniquely comprehensive guide to back-to-school fashion, of course. For this article, I called on my fashionable friend Cara Decker, center director and co-owner of Kumon Math and Reading Center of Wichita. The Kumon program is designed to help your student develop a love of learning with individualized lesson planning. Decker’s invaluable perspective from inside the classroom for almost a decade takes us beyond the average back-to-school fashion tips. Even if you don’t have students of your own, the back-to-school fashion season includes fun trends that transcend the classroom.

With my experience as a fashion stylist and boutique owner, I’ve mastered the art of curating school outfits. This season is about looking for fashion that serves functionality, and it's a great time for professionals in any industry to shop for the more conservative styles of the season. Leveraging Decker’s professional experience, we’re thrilled to share style advice, ingenious hacks and the latest trends. Let’s build an effortless and seamless back-to-school wardrobe. 

Cara Decker’s Tips for Teachers

When I asked Decker for her styling tips, she truly encapsulated the core elements of personal style: “Look good, feel good, do good! As educators, we dedicate so much of our time and energy to our students. But it’s equally important to take care of ourselves. When you feel confident in your appearance and take the time to dress for success, your attitude is going to be much more positive, and that will ultimately impact your students as well.” Decker says. It’s true, when you feel good and comfortable in your outfits it shows, but where do you begin? How do you “dress for success”? Decker shares her top tricks and hacks in the next sections.

• Wear something that fits well but will allow you to move around a lot.
• Keep it semi-formal and professional.
• Dress in layers. A typical school day will have you in and outside the building multiple times a day.
• Always keep an extra pair of flats in your classroom in case you need to switch over to something comfier mid-day.
• Plan your outfit the night before.
• Find stores that offer teacher discounts, like Francesca’s in Bradley Fair.
• Opt for sneakers: They can be worn with a cute sundress or trousers.
• Prefer a heel? Decker says, “I wear short, kitten heels almost every day at work. I love how they dress up a simple pair of slacks, yet are comfortable enough to walk around in.
• Accessorize with bright-colored accessories or statement jewelry.

It’s All in the Bag

Let me explain why a bag can make or break your start to the day. Imagine this scenario: You’re running late and you’re carrying a plethora of bags. You’re also juggling a water bottle under one arm while somehow managing to hold your cell phone and a full coffee mug in the same hand. A well-designed bag can streamline everything.

The best bag brand I’ve discovered for any age and profession to avoid commuting chaos is Dagne Dover. Female-founded, this brand offers stylish bags in various colors and functions with strategically designed compartments providing a designated spot for everything — even your water bottle. For students, I recommend the “Dakota” backpack, and for professionals, the “Daily Tote” is perfect. Whether you’re traveling down the street or across the pond, Dagne Dover is the bag for you. You can check out their collection at DagneDover.com.

Shopping Tips

As late August approaches, Kansas weather often feels like a game of tug-of-war: there are the extremes of 100 degrees or 20, with only a few neutral weeks in between. As you step into the stores this month, even if it’s scorching hot outside, it’s wise to start thinking ahead to that first refreshing, crisp morning in September, because it will be here before you know it. Shop for neutral-colored cardigans, sweaters, solid t-shirts and denim in various washes. These versatile pieces provide a solid foundation for any wardrobe.

What about the mayhem that erupts when you’re shopping for the kids, with the kids? Even older children can be challenging during school shopping, as finding their unique style becomes increasingly important in middle and high school. To make this time calm and enjoyable rather than chaotic or frustrating, consider a one-on-one shopping trip with your student. It can be a fun bonding experience for both of you. Creating a fun mood board with your student (or yourself) can make your shopping time more efficient and productive. Once you have a general idea of style preferences, you’ll have a clearer idea of what you’re looking for.

Back to School ’23 Top Fashion Trends

• A feminine take on menswear: Dad’s neckties are in for women this season. Try this trend by styling a tie, an untucked button-up shirt, and a mini skirt. Complete the look with an oversized blazer and platform loafers.
• Mix prints and styles you already own. Take a look through your closet and pull out any pieces you love, mix them up, and you might find a new outfit with pieces you already own. For example, try pairing a plaid skirt with a floral print in cohesive colors.
• 80’s-style matching suit sets are in! This effortless look makes getting dressed easy. One part blazer, one part matching trousers, just add a basic tee.

“But My Student Wears a Uniform.”

If you have ever watched an episode of “Gossip Girl,” you will know that there are many options to add personal touches to a school uniform. As a graduate of Trinity Academy, Decker is no new student when it comes to private school fashion. “I loved showing off my unique style with lots of jewelry and different purses and bags. You can show off your unique style with fun socks, and different shoe styles, and decorate your backpack. You can even get creative with some hair accessories like headbands and hair clips.” Decker says. 

Ingenious Hack for Dressing Your Little Student 

A simple hack for getting your young students ready for the day is to purchase a hanging closet organizer with cubbies. This storage solution allows you to label each cubby for a specific day of the week. Think of it as meal prepping, but for outfits. On Sundays, you can fill each cubby with a complete outfit for each day of the upcoming week, including undergarments. In the morning, your child can easily grab the outfit designated for that day. It’s a fun activity to do together with your child or something they can handle independently. Ah, just imagine, your kid getting dressed all on their own, in an outfit that you pre-approved! Decker points out that your child’s shoe choice is also important, she suggests, “closed-toe sneakers; something they can walk around and play in without slipping off easily.” Also, don’t forget to “send a jacket with your kiddo even if it’s still warm outside. The classrooms can get cold.” Decker adds.

Local Shopping

Consider making at least a few of your purchases from a small business. I’ve compiled a short list of boutiques for you to explore.

• LBD in Bradley Fair — This boutique is one of my favorites because of its range of price points, styles and accessory options. You can get full outfits, all in one place.
• Aspen Boutique — A Wichita institution, Aspen Boutique has been in the game for a long time, so you can trust they have their clothing curation down. I recommend Aspen for teachers and college students. They carry brands like Johnny Was, which is a great brand for standout pieces to work into your core wardrobe.
• Jewel Angels — Located in College Hill, this boutique is fun. I would even say this shop has the most unique and fun pieces in town. Your fashionista student will have a great time shopping here, as the selection is full of standout pieces. 
• Violet’s Closet — This consignment shop is also great fun to explore. You will find sophisticated, high-end pieces that are one of a kind. I can spend hours in Violet’s Closet.
• Marketplace in Augusta — Check out the dedicated fashion section inside this large home and gift shop. I like that you can explore fashion and other trinkets, making it a great place to find an outfit and a gift for your student’s new teacher.
• 2 Beatz Boutique — Located downtown at 320 S. Market St., this boutique is my go-to for workwear. They carry a wide selection of sizes, and cute blazers are their staple. Anything you buy here will be a compliment magnet!