Welcome back to my September Rebel Series — where I’m pulling back the curtain on the “rules” I’ve broken in practice, and how they’ve actually made me a stronger, freer practitioner.
This week’s rule?
Osteo Rebel Rule #2: I don’t wear scrubs.
When I started my practice, most of my classmates and colleagues were wearing scrubs. It made sense, we wore a uniform to school and it definitely made getting dressed for work easy.
But I'll be honest - Scrubs never did it for me.
Now don’t get me wrong: scrubs are great. If they make you feel confident and fully yourself, then wear them proudly. But for me? They never felt like me.
I didn't like the materials, the cuts never really worked for my body and I never felt amazing in them.
So what do I wear instead?
👗 Some days it’s Lululemon leggings paired with a silk blouse.
Other days, a summer dress or a flowy kimono with an art-deco astrology print on the back (because that’s my vibe).
👡 I often wear my favourite Cole Haan wedges — ridiculously comfortable, chic, and they make me smile every time I look down. Ergonomic? Maybe not. But the joy they bring does way more for my posture than Hoka’s ever will.
📿 And jewelry? I’m all in. From mala beads that have hiked Machu Pichu with me, earrings I got with my bestie at a Seattle farmer’s market, to my wedding rings — I wear jewelry every day because it carries energy, meaning, and joy.
💅 Same goes for my nails. They’re non-negotiable. My hands are my money-makers, and I treat them like VIPs. Years ago I learned how awkward it feels to treat someone’s infant while they watch your every move so closely… with chipped “Christmas nails” still hanging on in mid-January. Never again.
When it came to creating my work style, I knew a few things for certain: I didn’t want to look neutral. I didn’t want to wear a uniform (even when I owned the clinic, especially because I owned the clinic). Because that never felt like me.
Instead, I dress in a way that makes me feel alive, expressive, and beautiful. I even told new hires:
“The dress code here is business beautiful — whatever makes you feel like your most beautiful, professional self.”
And here’s the thing: my wardrobe is more than just clothes. It’s also a check-in with myself. If I notice I’m on repeat with the same outfit, skipping even my “no makeup” makeup routine, or defaulting to messy buns every day — it usually means I need more downtime and self-care.
Because how I present myself isn’t about vanity. It’s about energy. When I feel good in my skin (and in my clothes), I show up differently. My patients notice. And I notice too.
So whether it’s scrubs, a dress, or a kimono with stars on the back — the most professional thing you can wear is whatever makes you feel the most you.
With love + rebellion,
Gen 💫
P.S. Want to see what “business beautiful” looks like in real life? Come find me on IG — you’ll often catch me in the wild during the work week.
✨ Rebel Homework:
Tomorrow morning, take an extra 5 minutes getting ready.
Pick one thing that makes you feel you — whether it’s your favorite scrubs, a dress, earrings, or a scarf.
Then notice: how does that energy shift show up in your treatment room?
👉 Bonus points: snap a pic and tag me (or DM me on IG). I’d love to see your version of business beautiful.
Responses