As you decide to take the leap into a career as an English teacher abroad, some questions may start to arise in preparation. A question that we get quite often here at Ninja Teacher is the following:
“What clothing do I wear when I’m teaching?”
While this answer can vary slightly from employer to employer, there is a general expectation of what an English teacher’s wardrobe should look like in Vietnam. This guide is designed to give you a basic idea of what to bring along as teaching attire.
First, we’ll address a few things to avoid when getting dressed before a class or interview in Vietnam.
- You should be prepared to cover any tattoos for work purposes. Tattoos are becoming more common among young Vietnamese people, but they still hold a significant taboo that makes them inappropriate for the classroom. If you have visible tattoos that can’t be covered with clothing, you’ll most likely need to invest in makeup that completely conceals them during the work day.
- While tattoos are almost exclusively a no-no in the classroom, piercings tend to be tolerated by more employers. Many schools and centers will allow basic nose piercings. As far as facial piercings go though, it’s best to take them out during the interview process and ask your employer upon hiring if they allow them in the classroom.
- Teachers should take care to ensure that their attire is conservative, with an appropriate neckline (no cleavage) and covered shoulders.
Now, onto specific clothing choices for English teaching positions in Vietnam. Generally, men are expected to wear trousers, a collared shirt, and dress shoes. A tie may or may not be required, though it’s best to wear one during the interview stage for the purpose of professionalism. Shirt requirements can range from a simple polo to long-sleeved, button-up dress shirts. If you can only pack a few options, we recommend sticking with more formal dress shirts. (We know that you’re thinking, “It’s too hot in Vietnam to wear a long-sleeved shirt!” Here’s an insider tip: Carry your work clothes in a backpack during your commute, and change upon arrival to your school.)
Women get a little more leniency in regards to teaching attire. Typically accepted outfits range from trousers and a professional blouse to appropriate-length dresses. I have seen women (particularly in Kindergarten settings) get away with black leggings and a blouse or plain-colored polo shirt, but I wouldn’t count on this as you prepare your wardrobe. Ensure that all skirts and dresses hit right above-the-knee (or longer), and that your shoulders and chest are appropriately covered. Strapless and sleeveless attire is usually not accepted in the classroom in Vietnam. As far as shoes go, virtually any closed-toed shoes (non-athletic shoes) are acceptable. For example, I wear plain black canvas TOMS when I teach.
The following notes are generalizations, but should provide a base of information in regards to the different types of teaching positions and their expectations. Typically, teachers who work with adult learners (particularly Business English positions) are expected to dress in a significantly more professional and polished manner than those working with young learners. Kindergartens tend to be the most lenient (as long as the attire is conservative and appropriate), as teachers in these classrooms will be more active in moving around the room and engaging students through activities, song, and dance. Language centers tend to be more lenient in regards to dress than public schools, but this can vary a lot depending on your specific employer.
We hope that this information, and the photographic examples provided throughout, helps to give you an idea of what to wear as a TEFL teacher in Vietnam. If you’re interested in getting started teaching abroad, or if you have any questions, click on the “Contact” page on our site to get in touch.
