When the weather gets hot, it’s tempting to bust out the crop tops and cut-off shorts, but for professional nannies, the changing seasons also bring a pressing dilemma: How can you stay cool and comfortable while still looking professional? One nanny recently took to Reddit with this question, and experienced caregivers from all over the country chimed in with tips to curate the perfect summer wardrobe.
The Reddit user, who works in Florida, says she’s never sure what to wear during the hot summer months because tank tops, crop tops and other heat-friendly clothing could be considered unprofessional by some. She asked other nannies what they think about cropped shirts or tank tops with thin strips, as well as what they wear to work on the most sweaty, humid days.
How can you tell if your clothes are work appropriate?
Nannies had varying opinions about what kinds of clothes are “appropriate” to wear on the job. Some said they wear crop tops regularly, while others think crop tops could end up being too revealing when caring for kids gets strenuous. Ultimately, most agreed it comes down to comfort, coverage and what your nanny family is OK with.
A parent who weighed in writes, “As a mom, any athletic or casual summer attire is 100% appropriate. Tank, crop, shorts, sundresses — all fine as long as you can chase and play with the kids without flashing the neighbors.”
One nanny advises following the same guidelines you’d use in a school or other more modest setting. “If you’re unsure about wearing something too revealing, just mind the neckline, and don’t wear anything cropped if worried about it being too short,” they write. “Same with shorts. Just make sure that your booty is fully covered, and if you’re wearing a swim suit, don’t wear any cheeky bottoms.”
Above all, the nannies say, what’s considered appropriate and professional can vary by family, so it’s always a good idea to talk to the parents if you have questions about your wardrobe.
What to wear during the summer as a nanny
1. Bike shorts, oversized t-shirts and athletic shoes
Bike shorts may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about work clothes, but they’re perfect for jobs that involve lots of outdoor time with energetic kids. “This was my summer uniform for chasing three active kids around in 100 degrees,” one nanny writes. “Add some simple gold jewelry to feel like a human.”
2. Maxi skirts or breathable linen pants
“Personally, I find loose-fitting and fully covering light cotton skirts, dresses and pants a lot more comfortable in summer heat than tight tank tops or crop tops that leave a lot of skin exposed to direct sunlight,” one person writes.
A lot of nannies suggest maxi skirts because the length can be adjusted by rolling the waistband and they “are super flowy.” Loose clothing and breathable fabrics can help you feel stylish while remaining cool on even the hottest days, but the nannies did offer one lighthearted warning for those who work with very young kids: “My kiddos are old enough to know not to yank my clothes, but one time I got pantsed in a Starbucks by a 2-year-old. Be warned.”
“I like overalls with a tank top underneath. Cute and comfy.”
3. Overalls and rompers
“I like overalls with a tank top underneath,” one person writes. “Cute and comfy.”
“Rompers are really nice for me,” another person adds. “The bathroom can be awkward sometimes, but I don’t have to worry about being pantsed.”
The best thing about overalls or a romper is that you can buy them in different colors, styles and fabrics. There are also plenty of options with shorts for especially stuffy days. They’re loose-fitting and full coverage but still help you look put together.
4. Denim shorts and leggings
Classic denim shorts are a popular choice for lots of nannies, particularly because they can be paired with almost anything. “I usually do denim shorts and a racer back top,” one nanny says. “I hate sweating.”
Another nanny says she switches between longer denim shorts and “leggings with breathable cut-outs.” Both of these options can be paired with t-shirts or longer sleeved shirts, tank tops or almost any other style of shirt, so they’re extra versatile.
“I usually do denim shorts and a racer back top. I hate sweating.”
5. UV ray-blocking clothes
For nannies working in hot, sunny locales, like Florida or California, one person recommends investing in some athletic shirts and/shorts that block damaging rays from the sun.
“If you are spending a lot of time in the sun and don’t feel like reapplying a ton of sunscreen all day, I opted for some sun shirts,” they write. “I purchased some in the men’s section at TJ Maxx or Marshalls so they’d be a bit looser on me for some air flow. Some even have the ability to help cool you.”
6. Athletic dresses and skirts
“Honestly, tennis dresses were my go-to last summer,” one nanny writes. “Mindless choice, workout material, stretchy, still cute and presentable.”
Another nanny says she prefers high-waisted tennis skirts with crop tops that meet the waistband. If athletic dresses and skirts aren’t your style, one nanny also suggests wearing your favorite sundresses or skirts with lightweight bike shorts underneath to prevent potential wardrobe malfunctions.
7. Scrubs
Scrubs aren’t just for the doctor’s office. They’re breathable, easy to move around in and come in lots of styles and colors.
“I wear and strongly suggest scrubs,” one nanny writes. “I live in Houston, and I know those [hot] summers you talk about. I feel very comfortable with the uniform and more professional.”
What kind of swimsuits are best to wear as a nanny?
While many nannies say it’s fine to wear whatever swimsuit makes you most comfortable, they do have some tips for those who are worried about being able to move and play without showing too much skin.
- Go for a one piece, tankini or skirt option.
- Wear board shorts over your bathing suit bottom.
- Invest in a movable, breathable swim cover up.
- Look for tops with thicker straps.
“In my mind, it’s about movability. As a nanny, you need to be able to react quickly and move without restriction.”
The bottom line on summer wardrobes for nannies
While everyone has their own opinions about professional wear and summer clothes, experienced nannies say the most important thing is just ensuring your own comfort and making sure you’re able to care for your nanny kids in any weather or circumstances.
“In my mind, it’s about movability,” one nanny writes. “As a nanny, you need to be able to react quickly and move without restriction. Whatever allows you to do this without having to worry about a possible wardrobe malfunction is good enough.”
