Objectives

Students will learn:

1. About the importance of coordinated dress in making a good first impression.
2. To identify "neutral" vs. "other colors."
3. Understand the benefits of a "classic style."
4. The social and practical advantages of buying high-status "brand name" apparel.
5. (For Females) To identify the 12 basic pieces of a women's "mistake-proof" wardrobe.
6. (For Females) To identify the 3 basic styles of footwear for women.
7. (For Males) To identify the 10 basic pieces of a men's "mistake-proof" wardrobe.
8. (For Males) To identify the 3 basic styles of footwear for men.
9. Pick out a basic wardrobe that is "mistake-proof."
10. How to select underwear.
11. Clothing Care:
1. Learn how and what to hang up.
2. Learn how to fold clothes and what to put in a dresser
3. Learn tips for stains, static cling, lint, or other clothing problems
12. The special dress issues for the overweight or wheelchair-bound.

Teacher Notes

Because most of the content presented in the Dress Module can apply to both men and women, it was designed to be viewed by a mixed audience. You may decide, however, in the interest of maintaining student interest, to view the sections in "Dress, Part II," illustrating the components of the basic wardrobe, to gender-specific audiences.

How To Design Your Lessons and Use The "Optional Pause Points"

In the "Instructional Content" section of this guide, you will find the facts, concepts, and tasks we expect your students to learn. Use this information, as well as the material in the "Dress Rationale & Overview" section (on p. 13) and in the "Video Synopsis" to develop pre- and post-video screening discussions and as a reference guide in leading the suggested "Behavior Development Activities" appropriate to the functioning level of your students. More capable students will enjoy extended discussions of the power of personal presentation. Students with moderate to severe cognitive and/or behavioral impairment will gain most from repeatedly watching the "video modeling" of our First Impression Players and from "in vivo" (in a living body) practice.

We have incorporated many "Optional Pause Points" within the video itself. These Pause Points correspond to discreet content areas and make convenient stopping points to take a break and/or to answer questions. We do, however, recommend screening the entire video with your class, over one or more class periods, before initiating any extended discussions or engaging in one of the "Behavior Development Activities." After the class has seen the entire video, we suggest playing it again, but this time stopping at the Optional Pause Points to teach and review in depth the "Instructional Content" for that Pause Point. You can also initiate one or more of the "Behavior Development Activities." No matter how you choose to proceed, be sure to take your time. Taking several periods to teach and practice the content at each Pause Point would not be considered unusual, especially when working with students with special needs.

Video Synopsis

Jennifer Chapman, our fashion consultant, returns to remind us of the importance of dressing properly to make a good "first impression." Jennifer first shows us the 12 basic pieces of a simple "mistake-proof" wardrobe for women and then the 10 basic pieces of wardrobe for men. We see Jennifer, with the help of Ken, illustrate how individual pieces of the wardrobe can be "mixed and matched" in numerous combinations without making a coordination mistake. No matter what outfit you put together from the 10-piece men's wardrobe or the 12-piece women's wardrobe, it will be coordinated. In these "mistake-proof” wardrobes, all the items automatically coordinate with each other...a feature especially, though not exclusively, helpful for persons who are cognitively challenged. Jennifer then shows us how to care for clothing by properly hanging and folding clothes so they won't wrinkle. She also gives tips on how to deal with stains, static cling, and lint. Finally, she presents special clothing tips for people who are overweight, and for those in wheelchairs.

Instructional Content

We are suggesting a "classic, conservative" approach to dress. We feel "it's better to be "safe than sorry" when it comes to making recommendations about how to dress. "Trendy" clothing looks silly when worn after the trend has passed, while the "classic look" is always in style. If your students choose the classic look, and follow our coordination rules, they will always look appropriate and "together."

The following is a list of basic facts, concepts, and skills relevant to the subject of good dress. The videos in this module present most of this content. However, you will notice that some of the items below are in italics. These points are additional information, related to the information in "First Impressions," but are not discussed directly in the videos.

• In the “mistake-proof” wardrobes for men and women, all the pieces (10 for men, 12 for women) are designed in a "classic style."
• Classic clothing:
• Is simple and traditional in design.
• Has few details like fancy stitching, multiple pockets, and unnecessary buttons.
• Tends to be cut in straight rather than curving lines.
• Is always in good taste.
• Neutral colors go with each other and anything else. They are:
1. The Browns (all shades from tan to brown)
2. The Blacks (all shades from gray to black)
3. Navy Blue (the blue of denim is considered neutral)
4. The Whites (all shades from white to cream or beige)

The Rules of Style and Color of the Basic Wardrobe:

1. All the pieces are in the "classic style."
2. All the bottoms (pants, shorts, skirts) are in a neutral color.
3. All the tops (shirts, blouses, pullovers, vests, coats) are in a neutral color.

OR

A modification of Rule #3 to add more color, but with only a little more risk of making a mistake:

3A. Tops may be any color or contain a small pattern provided that no other non-neutral top is worn with it.

For example, khaki (neutral) pants with a red (non-neutral) shirt is a great look but you would not wear a non-neutral sweater with it (such as green, unless you wanted to look like Christmas). Instead, according to Rule #3A, you would choose a neutral-colored sweater like brown.

To be safe, you may choose to teach Rule #3A to your more capable students.

TIP: When shopping, tell the clothing sales clerk you want a classic look and colors that are easy to coordinate (match). You could even show the "Rules" to follow in selecting a wardrobe to the clerk. Buying clothes that are mostly neutral in color and in the classic style will save money in the long run because they will be worn more often.

TIP: Buying high-status "brand name" clothes over unknown labels, bas social and practical advantages. In our society, wearing a brand with a high status (Levi's, Calvin Klein, etc.) infers a social savvy or "with it-ness" that brings a degree of respect to the wearer. Further, one can usually be more confident that "brand name" clothes will be better designed, better made, and better fitting. If you shop smart and wait for sales, they're as affordable as unknown labels. Some places that carry "brand name" clothes at affordable prices are mid-priced department stores (i.e. Sears, J.C. Penney), discount stores (i.e. Ross, Marshall's), and factory outlet stores.

The 12 Basic Pieces of Clothing Wardrobe for Women

Jacket

We recommend a cotton, wool, or fleece mid-thigh length jacket with a solid color nylon "shell." The jacket's inner fabric makes it comfortable to wear while the nylon shell acts as a "windbreaker" and gives some protection from the rain. It's an everyday coat that can be worn on most occasions. It will keep you warm most of the year and, if it gets colder, it can easily accommodate a sweater and shirt underneath. This jacket can also be purchased with a hood.

Ours is red, to give some color to our mostly neutral-colored wardrobe (a neutral-colored jacket would have been a "safer" choice). The length of this jacket covers tops that are short or extend over the waist. The hidden hood is useful when you are stuck without an umbrella.

Basic Black Dress

This can look professional when paired with our cardigan or dressy by itself. This black dress is simple, not too revealing, and will never go out of style.

Beige Tunic Top

It's designed not to be tucked in, but worn over leggings, jeans, or a skirt. It's user-friendly (no buttons) and in a neutral color.

Basic White T-Shirt

Every woman should have one (or two). It can be dressed up with a sweater or worn casually by itself.

Sweatshirt

Ours is dark purple, though any color will do since all our bottoms are neutral colors. A "user-friendly item," it's easy to put on and easy to care for.

Basic White Blouse

It's dressy by itself and goes with any top. It pairs nicely with all the bottoms to give you a professional or casual look.

Black Cardigan Sweater

Perfect when you need something lighter than the jacket, want to add more warmth to the jacket or want to immediately dress up an outfit.

Slim Skirt

Ours is navy and is the proper length for the office (just below the knee). If your body shape doesn't look good in a slim skirt of this length, you can choose a longer "A-line" or "flared skirt," but make sure it's classic looking (no extra details) and a neutral color.

Skort

It looks like a skirt because of the front panel but is actually shorts, so it's comfortable to wear. Can be worn casually or to work. If the length of the skort is shorter than your knees (and they often are), wear dark tights with it so it will be less revealing.

Slacks

Ours is tan, which goes with anything, and shows less dirt than white (but white does make a nice classic look). It has a classic, leg width cut, and length. Ours is also user-friendly, with elastic in the back, and it doesn't need a belt.

Leggings

Always in a neutral color. They're more comfortable than pants because they have no zippers or buttons. They should not be too tight. Leggings can be worn with tops that fall below the waist. Tops should never be tucked into leggings.

Blue Denim Jeans

We recommend Levi's Brand jeans because they have high status and are widely accepted. Choose the color blue (black is okay, too) since they will always be "in." Even though they often are used for heavy work, jeans should never be worn ripped or dirty, or with stains or holes. A belt can give it a more complete look.

Shoes, Socks, Underwear, Belts, and Purses

• "Classic" women's footwear wardrobe would include:
1. White or Black Tennis Shoes
2. Brown Loafers
3. Black and Navy Blue Pumps
4. Socks should be cotton and always the same color or darker than the pants being worn (but not darker than the shoes).
5. White socks should only be worn with athletic wear, tennis shoes, or jeans.
6. We suggest having: 3 pairs of white socks, 2 pairs of dark brown and 3 pairs of black socks.
7. Never wear shoes without socks or nylons.
• We also recommend every woman have 3 pairs of skin-colored pantyhose, and 2 pairs of skin-colored knee-his. When at work, women should always wear pantyhose under dresses and skirts and knee-his under slacks.
• Belts are worn for decoration, not to hold up the pants. We recommend having one brown and one black belt. Ideally, the belt and shoe color should match.
• At least one black or dark brown medium-sized (8" x 10") purse with a shoulder strap. Fanny packs are for casual wear or recreational wear only, but when used any other time, will make someone look dumpy.
• Women wear underwear (bra and panties) for:
1. The support they can provide to the breasts.
2. To protect outerwear from being soiled by discharges from the vagina or feces from the anus.
3. Modesty
• Because of their absorbency and quick drying features, we recommend all cotton panties or panties with a "cotton crotch." Underwear should not fit tightly and be close to the color of the outerwear you happen to be wearing. For women, we recommend having several pairs in white and at least one pair in beige, and one in black.
• Underwear should never be visible when you move, bend over, or when out in public.

⏸️ First Video Pause Point

The 10 Basic Pieces of Clothing Wardrobe for Men

Jacket

We recommend a cotton, wool, or fleece-waisted jacket with knitted elastic fabric at the neck, wrists, and waist (a lot like a "bomber jacket") with a nylon "shell." The jacket's inner fabric makes it comfortable to wear while the nylon shell acts as a "windbreaker" and gives some protection from the rain. It's an everyday coat that can be worn on most occasions. It will keep you warm most of the year and, if it gets colder, it can easily accommodate a sweater and shirt underneath. This jacket can also be purchased with a hood.

Basic White Dress Shirt (with Long Sleeves)

Every guy needs one. It's a neutral color and can be worn to work, under a sweater, with a tie and jacket, or paired with jeans for a casual look. It does need to be ironed, though.

Blue Denim Shirt

The perfect work and leisure shirt, plus it's extremely sturdy.

Sweatshirt

A sweatshirt is a really user-friendly piece of clothing -it's easy to put on and you don't ever have to worry about buttons.

Basic White T-Shirt

Every guy should have one. It's another user-friendly piece of clothing. It goes with jeans, with slacks, or under the jacket. It should be saved for very casual or outdoor work wear.

V-Neck or Crew Neck Sweater

It can be worn over any shirt in our wardrobe and will dress up any outfit. It can also be worn under our jacket for extra warmth. A sweater over a T-shirt is a great casual look; if worn over a regular shirt, it's more formal. A sweater never should be worn directly over the skin (wear something underneath to keep the sweater cleaner longer).

Polo Shirt

If we could have only one shirt in our wardrobe, this would be the one. We think every guy (especially those with cognitive challenges) should have as many as he can afford. You can wear it to school, to work, on a date, and almost anywhere! They have only a few buttons to mess with, go on easily, and are easier to take care of than regular shirts.

Levi's Jeans

We recommend Levi's Brand jeans because they have high status and are widely accepted. Choose the color blue (black is okay, too) since they will always be "in." Even though they often are used for heavy work, jeans should never be worn ripped or dirty, or with stains or holes. A belt will give them a more complete look.

Corduroy Pants

Choose black, though another neutral color would work. A classic pleated cut will never go out of style. Corduroys are more comfortable than dress slacks, but they look nice and are very sturdy.

Khaki Pants

We recommend buying Levi's Dockers. They can be worn almost anywhere.

Shoes, Socks, Underwear, and Belts

• A classic men's footwear wardrobe would include:
1. White or Black Tennis Shoes
2. Brown Loafers
3. Black Dress Shoes.
4. Socks should be cotton and always be the same color or darker than the pants being worn (but not darker than your shoes).
5. White socks should only be worn with athletic wear, tennis shoes, or jeans.
6. We suggest having: 3 pairs of white socks, 3 pairs of dark brown and 3 pairs of black socks.
• Belts are worn for decoration, not to bold up the pants. We recommend having one light brown and one black belt. Ideally, the belt and shoe color should match.
• People wear underwear
1. For the support, they can provide to the testicles and penis.
2. To protect outerwear from discharges from the penis or being soiled by urine or feces from the anus.
3. Modesty
• Because they provide support, we recommend the "brief" style over the "boxer" style underpants for men.
• Because of their absorbency and quick drying features, we recommend white cotton briefs for men. Underwear should not fit tightly
• Underwear should never be visible when you move or bend over and when out in public.

⏸️ Second Video Pause Point

Clothing Care

• As long as they're not dirty or wrinkled, clothes can be worn a second time or more if they are hung up and stored properly between wearings.

Clothes Hanging Tips

1. Don't hang clothes over doorknobs, over a chair, or drop them on the floor.
2. Don't hang pants over the top of a shirt hanger
3. Ideally use a hanger with clips that allows you to hang your pants upside down at the pleats of the cuffs. This will allow the original pleats to reform and any wrinkles to fall out. If this is not possible, hang them over a shirt-type hanger that has a crossbar designed to hang pants. This crossbar is often made of wood and will not add a horizontal crease.
4. When hanging up shirts, don't hang them with sleeves rolled up or unbuttoned. Pretend you are putting them on someone: button two or three buttons, and unroll the sleeves. Also, zip or button-up dresses are placed on a hanger.
5. Never hang sweaters on hangers--they get stretched out and will get bumps on the shoulders. Always fold sweaters, and put them on a shelf or in a dresser.
6. Don't "pack" your clothes too close together in the closet.

What to Put in the Dresser

• T-Shirts (folded neatly, so they won't get wrinkles)
• Underwear
• Socks
• Sweaters

How to Fold Sweaters, Tops, and T-Shirts:

1. Lay the item on a flat surface, and face downward.
2. Fold over one sleeve first.
3. Fold over the other sleeve.
4. Fold in half and put in dresser.
5. (Optional) Fold that in half again if you don't have lots of room in the dresser drawer.

Tips for Stains, Wrinkles, Static Cling, etc.:

1. Fresh Deodorant Stains: Don't wash the stain with water or soap-it'll make it worse. Rub the affected area together and it'll disappear.
2. Food Stains: If you stain a garment that requires dry cleaning, don't do anything except take it to the dry cleaners. If, the garment is washable, dip a napkin or towel in cold water and dab it on the stain a few times. Get out what you can and wash it later. Don't rub the stain.
3. Blood Stains: If small stains, take a cotton thread, wet it with your own spit, and roll the thread on the stain. For large stains, wash them out in cold water.
4. Makeup Stains: Use a "wet one" or "baby wipe" and dab it on the stain. Then dry it with a hair dryer, if necessary.
5. Wrinkles: Hang clothes in the shower while you're using them. The steam will get out most wrinkles. Also when you're doing laundry, take them out of the dryer after the drying cycle is finished, and hang or fold them immediately.
6. Static Cling: Take a fabric dryer sheet and rub it on the outfit.
7. Lint: Use a lint roller (with a sticky tape surface) and roll it over areas with lint.

⏸️ Third Video Pause Point

Special Issues

Special Issues For The Overweight Person

What to consider about clothing:

1. Anything sleeveless exposes less-than-perfect arms.
2. Any dress or skirt that is short exposes less-than-perfect legs.
3. Tight clothes make you look bigger.
4. Horizontal stripes make you look wider.
5. Belts will make waistlines look thicker.
6. Wearing one color, preferably a dark one, is slimming...it doesn't "break up the line."
7. Breaking up color (i.e. the top garment is one color and the pants are a different color) makes you look bigger.
8. If you do wear two colors remember: Darker colors make you look smaller, so wear the darker color on the area (top or bottom) that you want to look smaller.
9. A sweater tied around the waist won't conceal weight-it just adds bulk.

Some Solutions

1. Choose tops with sleeves.
2. Avoid tucking in your top or blouse.
3. Choose dresses or skirts that are knee-length or longer.
4. Choose vertical stripes.
5. Match the same color tops, bottoms, and shoes for a continuous long-length look.
6. Choose a darker color for the larger part of your body, and a lighter one for the smaller part.
7. A bra that minimizes the bust will make the clothing on top look better.

Special Issues for the Wheelchair-Bound Person

What to consider about clothing

1. Big thick clothing and big thick jackets, are bulky and make you look smaller.
2. Big thick clothes and jackets aren't versatile when the weather changes.
3. Your clothes will get more wrinkles.
4. Tops or shirts tucked in look bulkier.
5. Pant legs tend to ride up.
6. Zippers and buttons in pants are troublesome when using the bathroom.
7. (Women Only) Dresses or skirts tend to ride up.
8. (Women Only) Pantyhose or tights are troublesome when using the bathroom.
9. Ankle socks expose the skin.
10. Open, flat shoes can fall off when you're transferring yourself.

Some Solutions

1. Wear lighter clothing, but layer it for warmth.
2. Wear cropped (waist-length) jackets.
3. Choose clothes that are polyester/cotton blends (resist wrinkling).
4. Wear tops or shirts over pants/skirts.
5. (Women Only) Choose stirrup-style pants or pants sized in longer lengths so the legs don't ride up.
6. Choose elastic waist pants.
7. (Women Only) Avoid shorter-length dresses or skirts.
8. (Women Only) Wear "thigh hi" nylons.
9. Wear knee-hi length socks and choose the same color or darker than your pants.
10. Wear lace-up or T-strap flat shoes so shoes don't fall off during transfers.

⏸️ End of Video

Behavior Development Activities

The following "Behavior Development Activities" are designed to augment and reinforce the content presented through the video and classroom discussions. These activities were designed to meet the needs of students with cognitive and/or emotional disabilities. Since the verbal levels of individuals within this group vary widely, it is expected that the teacher will adapt these activities to meet the needs of his or her students. For example, an activity calling for making magazine collages may be appropriate for students with low verbal skills, but substituting "making a list" or "having a small group discussion" would be an appropriate adaptation of this activity for students functioning at higher verbal levels. In other words, don't overlook an activity because the response called for is inappropriate to your students - just adapt it to make it so.

Ask students to: