Vibrant “Hughs”

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Although the upcoming Deadpool 3 movie is a loooong way from its release in theaters, fans are still excited for any news.

The BIGGEST reveal came recently with a sneak peek photo of the film’s two stars, Ryan Reynolds (Deadpool) and Hugh Jackman (Wolverine). Check it out!

Understandably, the BIG DEAL is that for the first time in two decades of movies, Hugh Jackman’s attire finally bears close resemblance Wolverine’s comic book costume. Nice!

Before, many fans believed it impossible to pull off a nearly all-yellow, non-ugly outfit in live-action cinema. But I admit, Hugh’s golden duds look pretty good. Chalk it up to movie magic!

This is not the first time we’ve used Hugh Jackman as a launching point to discuss teachers and teaching. Now in Part Three of our “Hughology” (trademark, 2023) we’ll use the charming Wolverine actor to reflect on teaching wardrobes.

We’ve also talked before about teacher outfits based on superhero icons, including both what to (or not to) wear in the classroom, and when (and how) to undergo an “extreme makeover,” which is more than just appearances.

Now let’s ask another important question:

Should teachers wear yellow?

Ready for the answer?

It depends.

Is yellow part of your school colors? Do you root for the the “Yellowjackets,” or “Golden Lions” or “Wheat Shockers?” If yes, then by all means, go for it. Especially on game days. Who cares if yellow is a bad match for your complexion? Show your team spirit!

All teachers can still wear yellow, no matter their school’s mascot. In fact, yellow is a common color recommendation for first day outfits. Both style and teaching websites give their approval (and examples, such as below).

You can find additional resources at websites like This Stylish Teacher, The Styled Teacher, Real Men Real Style, and more. (Keen observers will note Mr. Harrington wearing his golden jacket for the Midtown School of Science and Technology Academic Decathlon Team!)

Beyond trendy styles, there’s actual research to support adding a ray of sunshine via your threads. Fashion psychologists note how the color yellow conveys optimism, brightness, and energy. These are all great things to share in the classroom, on the first day of school and beyond.

A little bit of yellow goes a long way, however. A teacher with too much brightness and energy can overwhelm a class, whether by what they wear or how they act. Be purposeful and judicious in your appearance and behavior.

For further superhero inspiration, consider how many of the following heroes brandish yellow–sometimes a bit, sometimes a bunch–on their costumes. Instead of insignias or capes, teachers can add their own bright splashes with a necktie, scarf, jewelry, and more.

If you want to learn more about fashion psychology and superhero costumes, there’s a super-neat four-part feature at Comics Alliance about different color combinations, including those shared above.

And read more about teacher attire AND teacher actions in my new book, Teaching Is for Superheroes! – NOW available anywhere online where you find GOOD BOOKS! Find out the latest at www.TeachingIsForSuperheroes.com!

(Note the savvy use of yellow on the cover – just enough to catch your attention!)

Dress for Success

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Back to school time is here, which means families are filling department stores to find the best bargains. But it’s not just students. Teachers are also looking to stock up on supplies and spruce up their wardrobes.

Take a look at a typical “Back To School” advertisement or website and you’ll see gobs of superhero clothing and accessories. Superheroes are famous for how they look just as much as they are for what they do.

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The good folks at Newsarama recently listed their “10 Best Live-Acton Superhero Costumes” and “10 Worst Live-Action Superhero Costumes.”

Here are some helpful lessons teachers can learn from these lists:

#1 – Maintain Functionality

Many of the “Best” costumes work because they look like something you could actually see in real life.  Rather than adhering too closely to garish comic book colors or styles, the designers keep things grounded and user-friendly.

TheDarkKnight Teachers should consider their daily tasks and possible actions, then dress appropriately.  Fabric that breathes, stretches, and covers is a must, along with some comfortable footwear.

Comfortable shoes, yes, but NO SNEAKERS (unless you teach gym).  Strapping on a pair of Asics Gel Virage 4 shoes is the quickest way to ruin an otherwise perfect teacher outfit.

Asics-Gel-Virage-4-Green-orange-White-Grey-Black-Silver-Red-Blue-Fluorescent-JYLRM

(It’s called “business casual,” NOT “business triathlon.”)

If you need super-supportive shoes that are also subtle, take a look at this list provided by We Are Teachers (although I squirm at the sight of #10).  This focus on footwear leads us to another lesson from live-action superheroes.

#2 – Focus on Simplicity

A quick comparison of the “Best” and “Worst” film costumes reveals a glaring difference in details.  In many cases, the outfits in the “Worst” category are just TOO MUCH.

BatmanAndRobin Resisting the impulse to add another buckle here or kneepad there, the “best” outfits keep it simple.  By doing so, these film versions highlight key elements that evoke iconic imagery.  In some cases, this means ditching the costume and favoring functional garb (see #1 above) with hints of style and symbolism.

Wolverine Teachers are iconic, and their choice of clothing should reflect their critical role in society.  Instead of chasing the latest fashion (floral vs. geometric print, fat tie vs. skinny tie, boot-cut vs. skinny jeans), focus on conveying an image that is classy and timeless–just like good teaching.

In case you think it’s passé to stick with the basics, take a look at two USA Today articles about teacher attire.  One is from 2003, the other from 2012.

Despite being nearly a decade apart, both articles list some of the same “Should’s” and “Should Not’s” for teacher apparel and appearance.  Neat and clean are always “in.”  Spaghetti straps, tight tops, short bottoms, excessive piercings and tattoos should stay out of the classroom.

#3 – Lean toward Conservative

We’re talking clothing here, not politics.  (Vote your conscience.)  In discussing attire, teachers should consider how to keep the focus on learning as opposed to fashion.

Whenever you struggle with what to wear, here are several mottos you can remember:  “Dress older.” “Dress like your boss.” “Dress for the job you want.”

HalleBerryCatwoman

“Teacher” is not the first profession that comes to mind.

These sayings will help with decisions as you stand in front of your closet.   Skewing conservative also works as you stand in front of the bathroom mirror.  Just like excessive makeup on movie superheroes, teachers with too much mascara will likely turn off their students.

#4 – Tone down the CGI

GreenLantern ‘Nuff said.

Hopefully these Hollywood examples will help teachers consider their choice of classroom attire.  For anyone wanting more ideas, check out this Education World article discussing jeans and flip-flops, or this About Education blog with useful guidelines, especially for younger teachers.

And remember:  Save the cosplay for your pets. Batman Dog