Dressing for Academic Approachability or Authority

Earlier this month, I wrote about how academic style is political and about the differences in academic attire. Today, I want to examine how clothing choices in academia shape perceptions and professional interactions, and I will share additional resources I found. As in any walk of life, what you wear matters. In academia, it is even more important to understand how you might be perceived in any setting, whether in teaching, meetings, or in a lab or archives. Universities and colleges rarely have formal dress codes, but offices, departments, and individual schools all have expectations. It is not always about expectations, though; what you wear can also influence your teaching style and popularity.

Does popularity have a place in deciding whether a professor is worth taking? It shouldn’t, but just like Rate My Professor, you are judged by how you are perceived in the classroom. A 2021 study suggests students perceive instructors who dress in a style between formal business and academic casual as warmer, more engaging, and more approachable. This is a great read. While business attire may feel right and lend authority, students seem to be opting for approachability over authority – this is a bit of an odd shift and probably a different post.

Next time you prepare to teach, lead a discussion, or give a presentation, consider dressing in a way that exudes warmth and approachability over a suit that signals competence. While earning student respect is important, appearing too stiff or self-assured can hinder approachability. Let your words demonstrate your expertise. Suits aren’t all that comfortable, especially in a hot climate!

Yesterday, Tuesday, August 25, was my first day on campus for the official fall semester. Because of the heat (101 was the official temp), I went with cool materials: a light green linen button-down top paired with simple black pants and heels. I typically don’t wear heels, but it was the first day, so I wanted to dress up a bit. When I teach a different course on Thursday, I’ll go with something similar: another short-sleeved button-down paired with a skirt (black or navy) and flats. These outfits show that I care without putting on airs. I’ve never been a suit-or-formal-business-dress girl, and I wouldn’t be comfortable teaching in that outfit.

If you are still unsure or not ready to change, start slow. Lean a bit toward formality when heading to your first class or during the first few weeks of the semester. For a discussion-heavy class, like the one I teach, or during office hours, go for a look that says, “I’m ready to talk.” While I am not advocating for dress codes in universities, I recognize that the broader academic context highlights the value of flexibility and authenticity in professional attire, but that’s not what students may see. Reflecting on my own experiences within this larger framework leads me to consider how individual choices about dress not only convey personal values but also shape interactions with student expectations, disciplinary norms, and institutional culture. In the end, it’s about your university, student, and personal expectations; you can start by combining them into one. If you aren’t sure where to start, I suggest following phdincloest; Rebecca gives the best advice, from what to wear as a first-time graduate student to what to wear as a seasoned professor!