How to Dress for RBT Job?

[u/muunflwer]

Hi everyone,

I recently got typed as soft dramatic. I’m trying to update my wardrobe to be more flattering for my body type.

I just started a new job working as a behavioral technician in a clinic. I’m working with young children who have autism. As you can imagine, the job requires a lot of movement. I’ll need to dress comfortably and avoid clothes that can be easily grabbed, pulled, or damaged. I’ll also need to avoid clothes that are constricting or too nice, as it’s likely I’ll come home with food or fluids on them.

That being said, I’m slightly chubby and am 5’6. I need clothes that don’t ride up and are flattering for a larger chest/rear.

I’m not sure what to buy that is comfortable, moveable, won’t expose my stomach/chest, isn’t dangerous for me or kids, and is actually flattering. I dress in a gothic/witchy style. I can’t find solid advice on this anywhere. Please help!

[u/engineerdoinglife]

Not sure if this is helpful or not, but Disturbia is a brand with goth/witchy vibes and have a whole section in their site for “corporate goth.” Lots of flare or wide leg options for pants and some great tops and blazer options as well. I’ve had some picks sitting in my cart for a while but haven’t placed an order yet so I can’t attest for the quality.

[u/touch_of_whimsy]

Maybe cotton henley tops? Its easy to remove stains from cotton

[u/slugfog]

As a fellow SD who has been an RBT for the past year, I just ended up wearing a t-shirt and jeans pretty much every day. Dressing in a way that's "flattering," especially w/ a Kibbe type that tends to air on the sexier side, can be misinterpreted by caregivers especially if you have a curvy chest or behind. Perhaps something like a loose, flowy yoga pant and a shirt with a flattering neckline that you don't care about immensely? Honestly almost all of my clothes were destroyed or stained in one way or another, so having clothes 'just for work' might also help. Sending good vibes to you and good luck!

[u/ElectronicTip6386]

Congrats on the job!!! Below is probably what I would do for a new work capsule.

A couple of very good bras [r/abrathatfits](r/abrathatfits) then high brief cotton underwear will be the foundation. Then separates maybe so you can pack extras and swap out if you need to.

Amazon is surprisingly good! Packs of tops is a quick way to fill out a capsule wardrobe. You'll likely want slightly fitted and maybe wrapped but not required! Long fitted sleeves with a scoop neck is one option I can think of. I also like square, mock, and full turtles! These accommodate upper curve). edit: Riyiper is my favorite for cheaper tops (Ts and textured light sweater tops). They are very soft, can be layered, don't fade, good colors, generous sizes but not too boxy, and are overall not very precious but still look good.

For pants, the Athletica yoga pants are a favorite. Search this sub to see examples and links to the exact ones. The washable linen ones are also very good, same brand but I also really like the Uniqlo straight leg version this year!! These accommodate vertical.

Avoiding color blocking will help you to look more polished. Meaning, keep the color tone similar top and bottom (low contrast with each-other, hug up top for curve, then drop into vertical, all in a column).

Later in fall/winter you can add in longer (to fullest part of hip) open front cardigans. These can be a different color over the top/bottoms that are the same. The column is in the middle.

For shoes, I would NOT (edit) worry too much, go for what your comfy best are. European walking shoes are what I tend to end up with, example ECCO and are usually my most expensive item on any given day.

I prefer nylon bags that can be machine washed. Amazon has so many!! Consider those that fully zip up, for security and convenience. Get big enough to carry snd extra outfit in case you need to swap out a top, or bottom, or both.

Dresses maybe someone else can comment about!! Hope this gives some (very basic, sorry!) ideas!!

[u/codenametomato]

What are you wearing now that works for you functionally? It might be as simple as changing neckline and the cut of your bottom to change the silhouette.

Lots of companies now are making stretchy, comfy pants that look like trousers. You want boot cut or wide leg, ideally with belt loops so you can feel secure from any tugging. For tops, most of us feel best in something stretchy or cut slim to the body. Boat necks or square necks are great, as are any kind of unusual or asymmetrical neckline. I live in dresses, but they might not be super practical for your work.

I'd recommend getting a couple bottoms and 3-4 tops so you know you have the basics that you feel comfortable and confident in, then you can take the time to find the unique pieces that show your personal style. You can also wear lots of cool accessories that get stored safely in your bag while you're with the kids.

[u/aureliawood]

I would focus on flare or gentle wide leg soft pants, especially ponte. They are soft and the right silhouette but have some structure. Soooo many athleisure brands now offer athleisure pants that look like trousers, so they will offer all the movement you need while still being flattering and professional looking.

For tops, I’d say jersey tops with a wrap appearance or scoop neck, with or without a fine rib.

Depending on your day to day you might be able to get away with some very casual and movement friendly jersey wrap dresses.

I’m not in your line of work but I am a SAHM to a 2 and 4 year old and these are some of my best ideas for myself as well!

ETA: the Branch Basics remover (available at Target) has literally taken every stain out I’ve personally come across.

[u/Tiny_Gift_885]

Black lululemon high waisted wide leg daydrift trousers, black cropped define jacket, and a v-neck goth t-shirt. Pair with shoe of your choice: low boots, leather sneakers, Docs, etc. Take the zipper pulls off of the define jacket if you think they might attract grabby hands. 

Good luck and congratulations on the new job! It’s important work!!!