What to wear

[Trishiad]

I'm off to Maryland in a couple of weeks for a candy class at Albert Uster. I am not a chef and don't really feel like I want to wear a costume, but should I? Will I be out of place in my jeans and t-shirt? I have a cute chef's coat that was made for me but I'm not accustomed to actually working in it. Do I bring my own apron?

[nightscotsman]

I think it really depends on if the class is geared more for the professional or home cook. If I were you, I would call Albert Uster and ask them what you should wear and if they will provide aprons.

At the French Pastry School they run a number of guest chef classes. Some are at a more professional level and most people bring their own chef jackets. Others are much more beginner/casual and people wear a range of clothes. I think the school provides aprons in either case.

[Trishiad]

It is a professional course so I suspect that many students will be wearing chef's costumes. I would guess that most folks taking this course are pastry students or are pastry chefs. I JUST make candy. I'm self taught. I have a hard time taking myself so seriously.

Okay, what if I wear my cute brown chef's coat and some khaki pants? Close enough? Or will I be ostracized, shunned, and eventually tossed out into the hallway? Will there be no chocolate for me if I don't wear black and white pants?

[aidensnd2]

I think as long as you have a jacket and proper footwear you'll be fine.

[alanamoana]

wow, i had no idea i was dressing in a "costume" everyday! if i had thought of it that way, maybe i would have had more fun at work

you probably shouldn't over think the clothing thing. pack your "cute" chef's jacket just in case, but just dress comfortably and in clothes that you wouldn't mind getting dirty.

i second the idea of calling the school to get a clearer idea of what to wear.

[Trishiad]

Sorry, alanamoana, I don't mean to offend. I spent my pre-son days primarily on stage so everything is a costume to me.

Also, I don't really understand the constant wearing of the chef's uniform. I find it quite difficult to function in a regular chef's coat (luckily mine was made with stretch fabric) and I don't know why the pants all seem to come with elastic, gathered waists (talk about unflattering). So many chef's are so creative and have so much style, it surprises me that the costume has barely changed. The whole thing seems a bit militaristic to me. That's another thread.

I've ordered one more chef's coat (thanks to all who've advised here) and will wear my usual khakis and tshirt with them. I just make candy for goodness sake.

[alanamoana]

you didn't offend. it is militaristic, that's why so many people love it. you don't have to think about what you wear each day...someone else launders it and you could give a crap about how you look in it!

i do know some chefs who get tailored pants and jackets...these tend to be the chefs who don't spend a ton of time in the kitchen however!

the jackets are functional to a point. long sleeves to prevent you from burning yourself when reaching in ovens or over hot stoves, double breasted so that you can switch over when you stain the front, etc. etc.

it isn't exactly a glamorous job

enjoy the class, and post on your experience (regardless of costume )