The right and wrong way to wear white scrubs!

I used to teach clinical rotations at various nursing schools and unfortunately, you know most nursing students are stuck wearing white scrub pants, which is a color that can scream “I am NEW! I am SCARED! I need a XANAX!”

Wearing white on the job is bad enough. But wearing white the wrong way is even worse.

Here are my tips on uniform style for those of you stuck wearing white:

(1) Watch the underwear: White scrub pants do NOT hide any sins. At all. Do not wear striped underwear, pink underwear or any other color undergarments except for white or flesh toned unless you want everyone to know what your skivvies look like.

(2) Watch the sizing: Remember that today’s stores are notorious for “vanity sizing” (a size 6 is marked a size 2…you get the picture). Scrub manufacturers are more honest, which means a size small is REALLY A SIZE SMALL (and are you really a size small?) We shouldn’t be able to see the mole on your left haunch through your pants.

(3) Follow the rules, ridiculous as they may seem: At one of the nursing schools where I worked, it said in the dress code that the female students were not allowed to wear thong underwear. I was like, uh, am I supposed to look in their pants to see if they are wearing a thong??? That is NOT part of my job description. The closest I ever got to being the underwear police was to tell a male student that he was not allowed to wear royal blue striped underwear under his white pants. And believe me, that was way awkward enough.

4) Watch for stains: Nothing will ruin your day like squirting a bunch of mustard or ketchup on your new white scrub pants. Your patients and colleagues may start to doubt your medical acumen if you can’t keep food and beverages off your clothes. Choose snacks and meals that won’t leave a stain and be careful when snacking. Give yourself plenty of time to eat during your break, so you don’t have to hark down your food.

If you’re looking to add some white scrub pants to your work wardrobe, check out these stylish offerings from Cherokee Uniforms:

Low Rise Flare Leg Drawstring Cargo Pants

Elegant and flattering for any body type, these comfortable cargo pants will keep you on task at work. They come with bi-stretch technology to support you when you’re on the move.

Mid Rise Pull-On Pant Cargo Pants

Choose the Mid-Rise Cargo Pants for a more classic look. They sit a little higher on the waist with an adjustable waistband for the perfect fit every time.

Men’s Drawstring Cargo Pant

Men should be able to wear white scrub pants as well. This is a common look for orderlies and long-term care providers. They come with an elastic waist, tapered pant leg, and plenty of pockets for a more professional look on the floor.

Whether you’re wearing a uniform or you just like the look of white scrubs, use these tips to look your best at work.