OT Commuter Style: Why 'Fred Perry x Military Pants' is the Ultimate Switch for My Rehab Workplace
Hello. I am an active OT in my 20s who started posting on Instagram (@ot___2.15) as an 'Occupational Therapist who wants to commute in style.'
I received an unexpectedly positive response to the 'commuter outfit' I posted for the first time on Instagram the other day, and it made me realize once again the power that fashion holds.
This time, I would like to delve a little deeper into why the items I wore in that first post are necessary for 'me as an occupational therapist.'
■ Into 'Work Mode' in one action. The functional beauty of a track jacket
The first condition I look for in commuter wear is 'ease of changing in the locker room.'
At the rehab site, I change into my uniform as soon as I arrive at work. Therefore, complex outerwear that requires unbuttoning many buttons is not suitable for a busy morning.
That is why I ended up with a Fred Perry track jacket.
• Functionality: The speed of 'one action' to put on and take off with a single zip.
• Design: While it is sportswear, the laurel wreath logo exudes 'dignity.'
By wearing a piece with a brand background rather than 'just a jersey,' I boost my morale before arriving at work.
■ The toughness of military gear that supports 'movement' on-site
For bottoms, I chose navy military pants.
You might think, 'A rehab professional in military pants?' but actually, they are perfectly compatible with the movements required on-site.
Our work is very hard, involving kneeling for assistance, bending over, and sometimes moving together with patients.
In that respect, military pants were originally made as 'tools,' so they are incredibly tough.
By choosing navy, I ensure they are not too rugged and maintain a 'clean look' when paired with a white shirt. The coexistence of functional beauty and practicality. This is my answer.
■ For my feet, a commitment to Japanese-made quality.
And the key to this outfit is Converse Japan (All Star J).
Rehab work involves standing. The comfort of your feet is directly linked to your concentration for the day.
The reason I deliberately choose 'Made in Japan' Converse is for their comfort and the beauty crafted into every detail.
'I want to have a professional commitment to the things that aren't visible and the fine details.'
I put that attitude toward my work into this pair of shoes.
■ Finally: Fashion is 'rehab for myself'
Why am I so particular about my commuter clothes?
It is because I feel that fashion is close to a form of 'self-care.'
Wearing my favorite clothes lifts my mood (an approach to the mental aspect).
Choosing clothes that are easy to change into makes my actions smoother (an approach to the functional aspect).
I believe that conditioning myself leads to better rehab interventions as a result.
I will continue to share the real trial and error of a 20-something OT on Instagram and this note.
'I want to enjoy both fashion and work to the fullest.'
I would be happy to connect with people who feel the same way.