Somewhere along the line, I seem to have become the unofficial style consultant for the China internship... forget what you're going to teach, what the hell are you going to wear! And what does 'smart-casual' actually mean?
First up, don't panic... People in China are super keen on fashion (Shanghai is now up there with Paris, Milan, London and New York as one of the fashion capitals of the world don't cha know), and as long as you're not a 6ft 5 Amazonian, there are plenty of clothes shops and markets to explore to top up your wardrobe if you find any areas lacking.
The first thing to get your head around though is Chinese people's perceptions of teachers. While teachers here in the UK are regarded with a healthy mixture of contempt and derision by their students, in China teachers are afforded a lot of respect. As such, going for this kind of street style is not to be advised...
Or at least leave the pink tights at home. This is more the look you want to be going for:
(apologies - this lady did have a head and shoes when I got the picture...)
So, a few tips:
- Cover up! Flashing cleavage, midriff and thigh is not going to be a bringer of respect
- Scruffy is not a good look for a teacher - stick to neat and tidy and you won't go far wrong
- Jeans are just about passable, but opt for indigo or black denim rather than stonewash. ]
- Alternatively, leggings and tunics are a good look for girls, while shirts and chinos/black trousers work for guys
- Try to find something a little smarter than battered Converse all-stars. Flats or boots are great, or smarter trainers are fine too.
- You're going to be there for five months, going from bleak midwinter to high summer, so try and bring clothes that you can layer up rather than lugging out loads of bulky winter clothes from the off.
- Lastly, and most importantly, don't fret it! Bottom line is you're a foreigner and people will expect you to be a bit strange (in a nice kind of way!) and your dress sense will be part of that. Your best bet is to take a few trusty, plain staples out with you, then if you need to get extra clothes while you're out there you can.
Anyone got any more China fashion tips? Post them below!
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Thanks honor...this is really useful.
Even if you are a 6 foot 5 Amazonian, you can always get clothes made at the fabric markets! In fact, I always leave room in my suitcase every time I head to China because I just know I'll be back with new skirts, jackets, winter coats, etc. So cheap and fun!
I wish I knew this before I went to Taiwan. Though I didn't teach I was an exchange student and I don't like showing a lot of skin but when it is hot I don't really care how much skin is shown and Taiwan is really hot. ><
Great tips that could apply to most Asian countries I think.
Hey Martha,
A little tip: Heavy things in your hand luggage (ie shoes!) cram as much in a possible and wear as many things as possible!! I usually wear a coat and carry a coat!
Great advice! Thanks. Now I just need to see how much of my wardrobe I can cram into my suitcase!
Nice...thanks for the tips!!!
Good tips honor!
ooo... one thing I forgot! Smoking - while smoking out on the street if you're a woman here is totally normal, in China it's the sign of you being somewhat free and easy (if you get my drift!) Smoking indoors (including in bars, restaurants and even banks) is fine though and smoke wherever you like if you're a bloke, but just avoid loitering outside buildings having a fag.
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