Heading off to nursing school orientation is an exciting milestone as you embark on your journey to become a nurse. One important consideration is ensuring you are dressed appropriately to make a positive first impression on your instructors and peers.
Dressing professionally shows you are serious about your nursing education and career. At the same time, you want to be comfortable since orientation may involve a full day of informational sessions, campus tours, and other activities. Here is a detailed guide on what to wear to your nursing school orientation.
General Guidelines
Before getting into specific recommendations, there are some general guidelines to keep in mind when planning your orientation outfit:
- Err on the side of being overdressed rather than underdressed. It’s better to look more formal and professional than casual.
- Make sure your clothes are clean, pressed, and in good condition. Avoid garments with rips, stains, excessive wrinkles, or other signs of wear and tear.
- Choose clothes that fit well. Avoid anything too tight or overly loose/baggy. You want to look polished and put together.
- Go for a more conservative, understated look. Avoid anything too flashy, revealing, or distracting, such as plunging necklines, short skirts, or loud prints and colors.
- Make sure you will be comfortable sitting and walking around campus for an extended period in your clothes and shoes. You don’t want to be distracted by physical discomfort.
Now let’s get into more detailed outfit recommendations:
What Tops to Wear
A good top selection rule is a classic, professional look. Here are some top options that are perfect for orientation:
- Button-down Shirts: A crisp, button-down collared shirt in a neutral color like white, light blue, or pale pink is always a safe bet. Make sure it is pressed and fits well through the shoulders and sleeves. Avoid any gaping between the buttons.
- Blouses: A nice blouse can also work well for orientation. Choose one in a solid, neutral color, or a subtle print. Make sure it is not too low-cut or sheer. A silky material can elevate a blouse, but avoid anything too clingy.
- Cardigans/Sweaters: Layering a cardigan or pullover sweater over a shirt or blouse is a great option, especially if orientation is in an air-conditioned building or occurs in cooler months. Go for a solid, neutral color like black, gray, or navy.
- Polo Shirts: A neutral-colored polo shirt can work if your orientation is more casual or takes place in a warm location. Make sure it fits well and is not too tight or baggy.
Whatever style you choose, make sure it covers your shoulders and midriff and hits around your hips. Avoid cropped, sleeveless (unless layered), or graphic tees with slogans or busy images.
What Bottoms to Wear
When it comes to pants or skirts, here are some guidelines:
- Pants: Dress pants, khakis, or neutral-colored slacks are all appropriate for orientation. Choose a fabric with some structure, like cotton, wool, or a blend. Avoid denim, leggings, joggers, or overly tight fits. Make sure the pants are hemmed properly and not dragging on the ground.
- Skirts: If you opt for a skirt, go for a knee-length or slightly below the knee. An A-line or pencil skirt can work well. Avoid anything too short, tight, or flowy. Stick with neutral, solid colors like black, gray, or navy.
- Dresses: A professional dress can also be a great choice for orientation. Choose one that is around knee-length with a higher neckline. A sheath or shirt dress style can work well. Avoid sundresses, strapless styles, or overly formal dresses. Stick with solid, neutral colors.
Whichever bottom you choose, make sure it fits well, isn’t see-through, and that you can comfortably sit and move around in it. Avoid shorts, capris, or anything overly trendy or distracting. Combine your bottom with your chosen top, and ensure the combination looks polished and professional.
Footwear
When it comes to shoes, prioritize comfort and professionalism. You’ll likely be walking around campus for a fair time during orientation. Avoid open-toed shoes, casual styles like flip flops or sneakers, or shoes with high heels. Here are some good options:
- Flats: Simple, closed-toe flats in a neutral color like black or beige are a great, comfortable choice. Make sure they have some cushioning and traction.
- Low Heels: If you prefer a shoe with a heel, stick with something around 2 inches or lower. A low pump or heel in black or nude can work well. Make sure you can walk comfortably in them.
- Loafers: A loafer-style flat can also be used for orientation and provides more structure and support than a ballet flat. Go for a neutral color.
Avoid scuffed, worn-out shoes, distracting colors, or hard-to-walk-in shoes. If you wear pants, your socks should be solid and dark. If you’re wearing a skirt, consider nude hosiery or trouser socks.
Accessories
Keep accessories simple and professional for orientation. Here are some guidelines:
- Jewelry: Choose simple, classic pieces, such as stud earrings, a delicate necklace, or a simple bracelet. Avoid anything overly flashy, jangly, or distracting.
- Watch: A professional watch with a metal or leather band can be a nice accessory for tracking time during orientation. Avoid digital or sporty styles.
- Bag: Bring a large bag to hold essentials like your wallet, keys, phone, notebook and pen, and orientation materials. A structured shoulder bag, tote, or messenger bag can work well. Avoid overly large bags, casual styles like backpacks, or evening bags.
Keep any makeup natural and understated. Keep your hair neat and styled to keep it out of your face. Avoid strong perfumes or scents. If you wear nail polish, ensure it is conservative and not chipped.
Other Considerations
In addition to the clothing elements, here are a few other things to consider for orientation day:
- Dress in Layers: Layers will allow you to adjust if orientation spaces are hot or cold. A cardigan, pullover sweater, or blazer are all good options to put on or take off easily.
- Check Orientation Information for Any Requirements: Read any orientation information thoroughly in case any specific clothing requirements are outlined. Some schools require students to wear their nursing uniform or lab coat at orientation.
- Bring a Small Umbrella: If there is any chance of rain on orientation day, bring a compact umbrella in case you have to walk between buildings.
- Wear Deodorant/Antiperspirant: You’ll meet many new people at orientation, so wear deodorant or antiperspirant to control sweat and avoid body odor.
- Bring Breath Mints or Gum: Similarly, you’ll be doing a lot of talking during orientation, so you may want to bring breath mints or gum to freshen your breath throughout the day.
- Comfortable Undergarments: Wear comfortable undergarments that don’t show lines under your clothes and that you can wear all day without being uncomfortable or self-conscious.
- Get a Good Night’s Sleep: Get a restful night’s sleep before orientation so that you are alert, energized, and focused during the day’s events. Being well-rested will help you make the best impression.
Outfit Examples
To put this advice together, here are some sample outfit combinations that would work well for nursing school orientation:
- White button-down shirt + black slacks + black flats + simple stud earrings + black tote bag
- Light blue blouse + gray pencil skirt + gray low heels + delicate silver necklace + nude hosiery + gray shoulder bag
- Beige sweater + navy dress pants + navy loafers + simple watch + navy messenger bag
- Pale pink polo shirt + khaki pants + brown flats + small gold hoop earrings + brown leather tote
- Navy sheath dress + black low heels + simple bracelet + black structured shoulder bag
Use the guidelines to create an outfit that makes you feel confident, comfortable, and professional.
Can You Wear Scrubs to Nursing School Orientation?
Some nursing programs may specifically require or encourage students to wear scrubs to orientation. They may want to familiarize students with the dress code from the start or take pictures of the incoming class in their scrubs. If your school has provided such instructions, follow them.
However, nursing schools do not typically require students to wear scrubs to orientation. Orientation is usually a more formal event where business casual attire is more appropriate. Scrubs are work attire for clinical settings, and orientation is not typically a clinical event.
If your school hasn’t provided specific guidance, avoiding being slightly overdressed rather than underdressed for orientation is generally better. Professional business casual attire like slacks or a skirt with a button-down shirt or blouse is a safe choice. It shows that you are taking your nursing education and profession seriously.
Closing Thoughts
What you wear to nursing school orientation shows you are professional, prepared, and taking your nursing education seriously. Following these guidelines and putting together a polished, comfortable, conservative outfit, you can focus on absorbing information and connecting with your peers and instructors during orientation.
Remember, the most important thing is feeling confident and comfortable in what you’re wearing. When you feel good about your presentation, it shows. Orientation is the first of many professional events you’ll attend on your journey to becoming a nurse. Starting on the right foot with a great first impression will set you up for success in nursing school and beyond.
