Called into the office, told I'm a slob.

Nurses General Nursing

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I recently was having a meeting with my immediate boss and the administrator over another issue. Not only did I not resolve the issue (though I know why) my appearance was also brought up. I'm tired of totally boring and unstimulating tasks I'm being given to do (QA junk, mostly) so I petitioned to be put on the floor with a med cart. I was told that would be fine if I wanted to work for LPN wages. Then, they pointed to my scrubs and messy hair and told me I was part of administration and needed to look more professional and like I have more self-esteem.

I'm sensitive about my looks anyway, so I just wanted to melt into the ground. I've gone out and bought some (expensive) dresses (Lane Bryant, Dillards, etc.) I tried on some regular pumps but thought they made me look too frumpy so I found these rather odd-looking platform high heels (Lady Ga Ga.) I'm sensitive about my weight, but if I've got to spend good money on clothes I want something I like (yes, I liked the Lady Ga Ga shoes.) Do you think this will go over well? I know we have one who is 50 yrs. old and wears baby doll dresses...what do you think is appropriate for nursing administration to wear if they don't wear scrubs?

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Specializes in PACU, CARDIAC ICU, TRAUMA, SICU, LTC.

We are all "representatives" (so to speak) of the health care facility where we are employed. Dressing in a sloppy fashion speaks volumes about the individual as well as the facility. That said, IMO, professional attire for nursing administration would be dress pants (black is always acceptable), skirt, solid color shirt, blazer or short jacket. As for shoes, flats (if you can tolerate them), mules, clogs, or what have you. Personally, I like Clarke shoes/mules; they are comfortable for this 54 y.o. to wear on a daily basis.

I am a baby boomer; for me, I tend to dress in the "preppy look." Administrative positions are not suited for outlandish garb, IMO.

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Specializes in Legal, Ortho, Rehab.

Nursing admin. should wear business-casual. Think sweaters, button up collar shirts, business skirts/pants. Even a nice blouse or professional style dress is ok. Jewely doesn't have to be boring but don't go overboard. Maybe an interesting bangle bracelet or ring. Keep them to a minimum though. As far as shoes, I'm no pump type either, so I suggest flats. They come in nice materials like tweed or leather. Hope that helps.

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Specializes in LTC, Memory loss, PDN.

Since there are tons of websites about professional dress, I'm not going to try and give advice, but I will tell you that it doesn't take a lot of money to look sharp. Of course where I live the cost of living is relatively low, but my wife can take 200 bucks and get three complete outfits and two pairs of shoes. She usually shops at Kohl's or JC penny and she looks like a million bucks. Ok, I have to say it, Lady koo koo shoes at work??? you're kidding, right?

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Academics.

I'm a student, but this question is about clothing and appearance, so I'm gonna answer. :)

First off, I've seen full-figured women look so sharp, so don't let your feelings about your weight translate into clothes that "cover up" rather than flatter.

No one can lose with a pair of well-fitting suit pants and a flattering top, in my opinion--especially if you have trouble picking the right shoes. I am HORRIBLE at picking shoes, mainly because my flat feet hurt like crazy in anything but 1-inch heels. So, I get around that by wearing pants and comfortable, well-kept shoes. You can also get a lab coat with your name and position stitched on it, if your facility allows

You mentioned "messy hair". Usually messy hair is the result of a bad haircut or an overdone salon haircut that one doesn't know what to do with. Get a good simple cut with long layers. Tell your stylist that you need "blow and go" and DEMAND that it be like that. Ask him/her to show you how to style it quickly on your own.

Good luck!

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I don't like flats, they make me look even frumpier. I've been told I'm "all boobs" so there will be no getting around that. I did find a large enough bra that supports me well and makes me look thinner. But the shoes, I like platform high heels...

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Dances, the problem is as management stated. You need not only to look as if you have more self-esteem, you need to HAVE it.

I'm 56 years old and even when I'm thin I'm "frumpy." It goes with the territory. So what? I had my day. Now the kids can have theirs.

Wear khakis or black or grey slacks, a low heel, a LOOSE man-tailored blouse, a jacket if you are self-conscious of your boobage.

Be proud of yourself, and the heck with your weight. You are still a vibrant, worthwhile person. Go get a killer haircut and mani/pedi and STAND TALL AND PROUD.

(Pssst.... no Lady GaGa platforms. Really. No.)

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I have some pounds to lose and I am all boob too. I hope your superiors didn't bring up your breasts because that is completely inappropriate on their part. If you are looking to lose some weight don't spend a lot on shoes and clothes right now because it will go to waste. In Fashion Bug I found a few flowered skirts and they were buy 1 get one half off so 2/$30. They have a slim elastic waistband and you can put a solid pretty tank and short sleeved button down right over it. Get yourself a classic sandal or two with a small wedge and you will be good to go. I bought a few because I need to lose weight and need some clothes that can carry me a bit.

Another good thing is the solid cotton sundresses out now with the gathered waist in heavy cotton. They have them in paterns too but keep the pattern on the smaller side. They hide a lot of figure flaws and are flattering when worn with a short sleeved sweater you will look stylish and professional. Target carries them along with some cute solid skirts. Buy a few and mix and match for the summer.

Pull your hair back in a low ponytail with a pretty clip. It will look neat and modern.

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I have some pounds to lose and I am all boob too. I hope your superiors didn't bring up your breasts because that is completely inappropriate on their part. If you are looking to lose some weight don't spend a lot on shoes and clothes right now because it will go to waste. In Fashion Bug I found a few flowered skirts and they were buy 1 get one half off so 2/$30. They have a slim elastic waistband and you can put a solid pretty tank and short sleeved button down right over it. Get yourself a classic sandal or two with a small wedge and you will be good to go. I bought a few because I need to lose weight and need some clothes that can carry me a bit.

Another good thing is the solid cotton sundresses out now with the gathered waist in heavy cotton. They have them in paterns too but keep the pattern on the smaller side. They hide a lot of figure flaws and are flattering when worn with a short sleeved sweater you will look stylish and professional. Target carries them along with some cute solid skirts. Buy a few and mix and match for the summer.

Pull your hair back in a low ponytail with a pretty clip. It will look neat and modern.

batman, you rock!

this is perfect!!

and esp appreciate classic sandal w/small wedge.

no hooker shoes.;)

leslie

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Specializes in Med/Surg, Geriatrics.

I'm short and I've gained a little bit of weight in the past couple of years so really I must wear heels to keep from looking like a little butterball. I like shoes from Naturalizer which are professional and comfortable and it is possible to find some with a bit of style. I agree with all other advice given. For clothing, I shop at Kohl's and JC Penney in the career section and that meets my needs. Lady Ga-ga heels, for god's sake NO.

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I'm short and I've gained a little bit of weight in the past couple of years so really I must wear heels to keep from looking like a little butterball. I like shoes from Naturalizer which are professional and comfortable and it is possible to find some with a bit of style. I agree with all other advice given. For clothing, I shop at Kohl's and JC Penney in the career section and that meets my needs. Lady Ga-ga heels, for god's sake NO.

yep, re naturalizers.

op, if you're working a med cart, you need to be comfortable.

and empire/a-line dresses are usually flattering for all body types.

leslie

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save the lady gaga shoes to wear outside of the hospital.....defintiely do not wear them to work! Everyone will remember them and not in a good way.

dishes

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