Korean Job Discussion Forums

[winaniw]

I've been wearing Vibrams for the past several years, and I have absolutely no desire to switch back to regular shoes. Assuming that I dress professionally above the ankles (woman's pantsuit or skirtsuit), will the toe shoes be a problem?

Vibrams: http://www.vibramfivesfingers.com/images/Vibram%20Five%20Fingers%20CLASSIC%20002.jpg

[nathanrutledge]

You're joking, right?

[winaniw]

Damn, that's not encouraging.

I'm hoping Koreans will accept them as a small endearing eccentricity.

[machoman]

[winaniw]

I'm female, never been to Korea.

[Gnawbert]

Depends on the school. Only way to know is to ask the owner.

I wore my Vibram sprints almost every day during the summer and fall. The younger students loved them and called them Ninja Shoes. Some of my adult students liked them so much that they got their own. However my situation is unique in that I really don't have a strict dress code and no real boss. At my previous schools I doubt I could have worn them. They would have been considered too informal.

Like you, I absolutely love the shoes, but most Koreans won't know what to make of them as they really aren't that common. As such, they'll attract attention and could become a point of contention even if you feel the rest of your attire is adequate for your work environment.

[redaxe]

Can you wear those, and then wear a bigger pair of normal shoes over them?

[winaniw]

Would you recommend I wear formal shoes at first and then gradually introduce the Vibrams, or should I start wearing them right off the bat?

[rumdiary]

Holy crap, those are even uglier than Crocs. And Ugg boots.

[oldtactics]

Shoes are a non-issue. Most of the students at your school will likely be wearing slippers anyway. I wouldn't worry about it. I have a friend who wears his constantly and while I'm sure some of his coworkers think they're strange, no one really cares. Don't worry!

[winaniw]

[rumdiary]

I'm sure they are. They just look like they're made for the beach and water sports. Not exactly the right foot wear for the workplace.

[Dazed and Confused]

Most public schools don't want outdoor shoes worn inside. Tell them you like you VFFs better than slippers and they're way more comfortable for you. However, when you leave school property you should make a point of obviously changing your shoes to regular sneakers or something.

[winaniw]

Interesting. That's good advice. I'll be working in a private school where the only dress code is a "clean, neat, and professional appearance;" will that make a difference?

[winaniw]

I just read up on slippers in schools. What if I wore the Vibrams outside and wore Invisible Shoes as my indoor slipper? http://www.invisibleshoe.com