Teachers at Ms Lam Montessori preschools in Brooklyn wear pleated uniforms designed by Yamasaki Takashi, an affordable Japanese designer. This clarification comes after online speculation suggested the staff were wearing expensive Issey Miyake garments.
The uniforms, which feature raspberry, cobalt, and apple green plissé fabric dresses, are worn at all of the company's locations. Ms Lam Montessori has 14 branches in Taiwan, where it was originally founded, and five in Brooklyn.
Stephanie Woo, head of school, explained via email that while she is a fan of Issey Miyake, Yamasaki Takashi was chosen for its understated designs, comfort, durability, and price. She noted the uniforms wash well and maintain their colour and shape, making them suitable for daily classroom life.
The uniforms were originally the idea of Ms Lam, the founder, and have been worn by staff in Taiwan for 12 years and in Brooklyn for eight. Woo stated that uniforms help young children recognise adults who can assist them.