Au pairing is one of the best summer jobs you will experience. If you love children, baking cakes and playing endless games of hide and seek then this is the summer job for you. Normally ranging between 1-12 months, au paring is an opportunity to improve your language skills, learn about another culture and see some amazing places in different countries. However despite playing with children all day you still want to keep your style. After spending the summer au pairing in the South of France, here are a few tips I picked up when it comes choosing an au pair’s wardrobe.
First Impressions:
What you wear makes a big difference to the way people perceive you. So it is important to put some thought into the outfit you will wear when your family meet you for the first time. It’s true that you may have to do a considerable amount of traveling before seeing your family, so choose an outfit that is comfy yet smart at the same time. With my au pair experience, I found the children immediately commented on what I was wearing and whether this was a typical style for English girls. So choosing something that is on trend in your country is a great way to show them a little bit about your country and culture. Tailored trousers with a shirt or polo and some cute ballerinas are always a safe option.
Play Clothes:
Despite playing at home for the day, au pairing it is still a job so it is a good idea to keep it practical yet chic. You still want to look smart for the parents and set a good example for the children, so try to avoid lounge wear and super short shorts. Leggings paired with a nice blouse are often a great choice as are flexible and easy to move around in. Alternatively play suits are a cute and easy item to pop on in the morning ready for a day of fun and games.
Swim Suits:
If your chosen of country is somewhere hot, swimming costumes and bikinis are essential. I found I played Marco Polo for several hours each day so several costumes were needed. Choose a costume that will with stand hours of splashing and swimming and save your favourite bikini for the beach.
Weekends:
To make the most of your time, weekends are a great opportunity to explore the region a little more. Navy and cream striped dresses or skirts are classic simple way to look effortlessly elegant. So whether you are discovering historic towns or hitting the shops, these sophisticated pieces will keep you looking chic; even when the city map becomes your latest accessory. One essential for a day out is a good pair of converses or sandals, so there is no limit to your day’s exploring.
Evenings Out:
There may be a few evenings when you get the opportunity to go out either to a restaurant or theatre with the family. By dressing smartly it will be clear you appreciate the invitation, so try to avoid super short or bodycon style dresses. Pack either a smart dress or trouser and blazer combo to make the most of this nice experience.
And most importantly, don’t forget to leave a little room in your suit case for some shopping while you are there.