Nurse style has come a long way since the classic nurse uniform: a dress, a white apron, and a cap.
Nurse workwear style now consists of snazzy scrubs in a range of colors and designs, fit to suit anyone’s personality. Although most medical centers will have some type of dress code, so, it’s still important that nurses read up on dress code guidelines.
Fortunately, most facilities these days allow nursing professionals to express some personal style.
Here’s your guide to blending outfit function with flair, while still maintaining professionalism on the floor.
Origins of nurse uniform dress style
Wondering where the classic nurse style originated from? The traditional dress, apron, and cap was inspired by Florence Nightingale during the Crimean War.
These full-length, long-sleeved garments were thought to protect against fevers. Ironically, during those years, nurses didn’t wear masks or gloves.
Eventually, this classic nurse uniform carried throughout time until about the mid-20th century, when hygiene became more of a concern. In the 1970s, scrubs were created as a uniform to use instead of traditional surgical gowns, because they were easier to move around in.
Scrubs then went on to become a modern nurse style for any healthcare worker in a medical profession.
The differences between classic nurse style and modern uniforms are drastic. A notable and quite obvious change is that scrubs are now gender-neutral, allowing anyone working as a nurse to find their perfect pair.
Fun fact: The word “scrub” originates from the practice of vigorously washing or “scrubbing” the hands and arms with antiseptic soap before surgical procedures.
What does modern nurse style look like in hospitals today?
Primary colors, bold prints, hearts, tie-dye, florals—you name it, and you can find it in scrubwear. It’s also essential to find fashionable yet practical nurse-style uniforms that allow you to move around with ease.
If your facility has a lenient dress code, try out some fun scrub brands and prints like:
- KOI
- MedCouture
- Wink scrubs
All of these brands have vibrant prints with seasonal styles, like Sugar Skull Fiesta (Wink Scrubs), Forest Creatures (KOI), or BOHO Butterflies (MedCouture), that let nurses show personality while staying functional.
If your facility has a stricter dress code, try out some of these stylish nurse uniforms that are more practical, but still allow for subtle personal flair (like solid-color scrubs with tailored fits):
- Jaanuu scrubs
- Figs
- Healing Hands
All of these brands are crafted from premium fabrics, offering comfort and functionality. Try Jannuu’s slim, modern polo scrub top or Figs' classic colors, like purple, navy blue, and carbon grey.
Accessories and personal expression
Some of the best nurse style ideas for work involve adding a little pizazz to your nurse uniform with accessories. Adding an accessory, such as a small pair of earrings, is also an affordable option for upgrading your nurse uniform dress style.
Here are a few ways to how maintain a professional style by adding some nurse accessories to complete your work look:
- A fun colored badge reel or lanyards
- A sophisticated or bling-bling costume watch
- Compression socks with stripes, embroidery, or beads
- Hair accessories like colorful scunchies or bows
- Small stud earrings, such as pearls or stones
Let’s not forget our male nurses. How male nurses express individuality through nurse style matters too. A classic watch, a bold pair of socks, or a swanky lanyard can boost a nurse's scrub uniform.
Common questions about nurse style
Style in the workplace of healthcare isn’t just about looking good, although feeling good in your clothes can lead to more motivation.
Research indicates that your clothing choices can create a strong feedback loop in the brain, making you feel confident and energized.
Here are a few common questions about nurse style and why it matters.
1) How can nurses maintain a professional nurse style while expressing individuality?
Express yourself by choosing scrubs in subtle or bold patterns as long as they meet dress code guidelines at your workplace. Add little touches like colorful badge reels, patterned socks, or hair accessories.
2) What are the best nurse uniform dress style tips for comfort and function?
Most healthcare professionals choose to wear scrubs in healthcare settings. Opt for scrubs that are fashionable yet practical nurse style uniforms. These types of uniforms are usually made from stretchy, breathable fabric and have a tailored fit.
Prioritize pockets and any added detail that makes it easier to nurse in.
3) Which nurse-style accessories can provide a practical and stylish work look?
For nurses working in facilities with stricter nurse dress code rules, you can opt to accessorize with stylish lanyards, compression socks, hair accessories, or small, studded earrings.
Balancing comfort with style
These days, it’s all about expressing ourselves more genuinely, even in the workplace. Luckily, many healthcare workplaces embrace various types of healthcare uniforms, allowing nurses to express a bit of their unique personality.
When choosing a nursing style that suits you, be sure to review the dress code of your workplace. Then, go for it. From pink to blue to florals and vibrant hues, it’s possible to combine professionalism with personal flair.
Looking for flexibility and a way to gain diverse experience in your nursing career?
Consider picking up flexible PRN opportunities with Nursa.
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