Having worked in both formal and casual environments, I have developed my own opinions about companies and their dress codes.
Previously working as a receptionist for a private mortgage company, and as a manager of a small business, I was required to dress formally for work - a suit, or at the very least, dress pants with a collared shirt. As the first point of contact for clients or as a supervisor, I find this type of attire to be suitable (though often uncomfortable!). I believe that dressing business appropriate when meeting clients is crucial. I would not feel confident walking into a lawyer's office to find a receptionist in track pants or shorts - it is not professional or appropriate for that type of environment, and would likely lead to a preconceived notion about that lawyer's abilities. Though necessary in my opinion (in the appropriate environments), I find suits to be boring and uncomfortable, and subsequently the day spent in a suit is the same.
I have also worked in an office where the dress code was business casual. There was no specific outline of what was appropriate and what was not, and in my opinion, the casual code was pushed to the limits. Shorts, track pants, see-through shirts, and even pyjama pants were worn on any given day! Again, if I was a customer walking into this type of environment, I would not feel confident with the company or its staff. Surprisingly, this is a rapidly growing multi-million dollar company! The energy of the room was amazing - whether that can be attributed to the dress code or the general nature of sales, I could not say for certain.
Based on my experiences, I feel that casual dress codes only benefit the internal employees for which it affects. From my understanding, dressing casually at work allows employees to feel more comfortable and relaxed, and increases productivity. With that being said, I do feel very strongly about companies that have frequent interaction with clients or customers. Formal dress codes should be implemented in these types of environments because it promotes a better company image, and makes a client feel as though they are dealing with professionals from the start.
Agree or disagree?
Conventional vs. Casual
Perils of Casual Apparel in the Workplace outlines arguments for each side of the debate over what is acceptable attire for work.
Critics believe that casual dress codes contribute to "absenteeism, tardiness, and flirtatious behaviour" (Guffey, Rhodes, & Rogin, 2011). Many companies with a business casual dress code have a policy in effect to define the limits of this code, rather than encourage employees' discretion.
Supporters of the business casual dress code contend that "comfortable clothes and relaxed working environments lift employee morale, increase employee creativity, and improve internal communication" (Guffey, Rhodes, & Rogin, 2011).
While it seems a little absurd that clothing would contribute to absenteeism and tardiness, an increase in flirtatious behaviour may be plausible - especially if the boundaries of business casual are being tested. Implementing a policy to define the limits and restrictions on the dress code is a great solution to this.
"The courts have upheld a company's right to enforce a dress code" (Guffey, Rhodes, & Rogin, 2011). Do you believe it is fair that your employer can tell you what to wear? Why or why not?
Critics believe that casual dress codes contribute to "absenteeism, tardiness, and flirtatious behaviour" (Guffey, Rhodes, & Rogin, 2011). Many companies with a business casual dress code have a policy in effect to define the limits of this code, rather than encourage employees' discretion.
Supporters of the business casual dress code contend that "comfortable clothes and relaxed working environments lift employee morale, increase employee creativity, and improve internal communication" (Guffey, Rhodes, & Rogin, 2011).
While it seems a little absurd that clothing would contribute to absenteeism and tardiness, an increase in flirtatious behaviour may be plausible - especially if the boundaries of business casual are being tested. Implementing a policy to define the limits and restrictions on the dress code is a great solution to this.
"The courts have upheld a company's right to enforce a dress code" (Guffey, Rhodes, & Rogin, 2011). Do you believe it is fair that your employer can tell you what to wear? Why or why not?
Guffey, M.E., Rhodes, K., Rogin, P. (2011). Business Communication Process and Product.
(6th ed.). South-Western.
(6th ed.). South-Western.
Redefining "Dressing For Success"
Dressing for success used to imply looking professional while at work, but it is becoming increasingly noticeable that this is not a concern in many offices anymore. More and more employees are taking the business casual dress code to a new extreme. Muldoon suggests that "In a world where profits are down, bankruptcies are rampant, and the most entrenched I-bankers are getting the heave-ho, you can't afford to look as though you spared an extra second thinking about the cut of your Charvet shirt" (Muldoon, 2008).
In fact, it is possible that if you look too put together at the office, co-workers and superiors may think you are spending more time getting dressed in the morning, than doing your job! Women are especially criticized for their appearance. If they appear to be dressed up or well put together, they can be criticized for not working hard enough, and trying to distract others from their work.
Personally, I resent the notion that one may be judged based on their clothing in the workplace. Obviously, implemented dress codes should be adhered to, but where is the harm in looking good if you have the time?
What would you typically wear to work if the dress code was up to you? Why?
Muldoon, A. (2008). Dressing for Success Now Means Looking Like Hell. Wired. Retrieved from http://www.wired.com/techbiz/people/news/2008/08/portfolio_0814
In fact, it is possible that if you look too put together at the office, co-workers and superiors may think you are spending more time getting dressed in the morning, than doing your job! Women are especially criticized for their appearance. If they appear to be dressed up or well put together, they can be criticized for not working hard enough, and trying to distract others from their work.
Personally, I resent the notion that one may be judged based on their clothing in the workplace. Obviously, implemented dress codes should be adhered to, but where is the harm in looking good if you have the time?
What would you typically wear to work if the dress code was up to you? Why?
Muldoon, A. (2008). Dressing for Success Now Means Looking Like Hell. Wired. Retrieved from http://www.wired.com/techbiz/people/news/2008/08/portfolio_0814
Basic Do's and Don'ts
This is a great explanation of a few basic do's and don'ts of workplace fashion.
Is there anything that you would add or remove from this description?
Is there anything that you would add or remove from this description?
A Guide for Women - How to pull off business casual
Many offices have implemented a more relaxed, business casual dress code, but where is the line between business casual and too casual? This guide will help to define what is appropriate and what is not in this type of environment.
Martin, J., & Lehu, P.A. (2012). How Women Can Dress in Workplace Business Casual.
Retrieved from http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-women-can-dress-in
-workplace-business-casual.html
Layton, J. (2010). What does business casual mean for women?. TLC. Retrieved from
http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/style/business-casual-for-women.htm
Pants such as khakis (full or capri length) are a great alternative to dress pants - especially in the summer! Skirts can be acceptable as well, as long as they are at least knee-length. Avoid jeans, leggings, shorts, and anything overly flashy.
Blouses or any other type of dress shirt (aside from the typical collared variety) can be sufficient as well. You do not want to wear anything that would show an inappropriate amount of skin, such as a low-cut neckline, or bare shoulders. Again, stay away from items that are loud.
Accessorizing your outfit is definitely encouraged! Scarves and belts are a great way to include a bit of personality to your outfit while still maintaining a work appropriate look. They can also be kept discretely at the office if the need arises.
Accessorizing your outfit is definitely encouraged! Scarves and belts are a great way to include a bit of personality to your outfit while still maintaining a work appropriate look. They can also be kept discretely at the office if the need arises.
Here are some examples of work appropriate outfits
 |
| Photo Credits |
 |
| Photo Credits |
Martin, J., & Lehu, P.A. (2012). How Women Can Dress in Workplace Business Casual.
Retrieved from http://www.dummies.com/how-to/content/how-women-can-dress-in
-workplace-business-casual.html
Layton, J. (2010). What does business casual mean for women?. TLC. Retrieved from
http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/style/business-casual-for-women.htm
A Guide for Men - What's acceptable in a business casual environment?
If your workplace has introduced a business casual dress code, it may be difficult to determine where the line is between casual and business casual. This will guide you with acceptable clothing options in this type of environment.
Long pants should always be worn. Stay away from shorts, and cargo pants, and only wear jeans if its specifically allowed.
Shirts should always have a collar, and need to be tucked in. A golf shirt is a great alternative to a standard dress shirt. A tie is not necessary, but a sports jacket or blazer may be a nice touch - especially if you are meeting with a client or supervisor.
Clothes should always be clean, and pressed if required. These items create a sloppy look if they are put together with haste.
Here are some examples of work appropriate outfits for men in a business casual environment.
Long pants should always be worn. Stay away from shorts, and cargo pants, and only wear jeans if its specifically allowed.
Shirts should always have a collar, and need to be tucked in. A golf shirt is a great alternative to a standard dress shirt. A tie is not necessary, but a sports jacket or blazer may be a nice touch - especially if you are meeting with a client or supervisor.
Clothes should always be clean, and pressed if required. These items create a sloppy look if they are put together with haste.
Here are some examples of work appropriate outfits for men in a business casual environment.
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| Photo Credits |
Feliciano, N. (2006). Men's Guide to Workplace Fashions. Yahoo! Voices. Retrieved from
http://voices.yahoo.com/mens-guide-workplace-fashions-64322.html?cat=46
Antonio (2011). Business Casual: 5 Steps to Upgrading Your Business Casual Clothing. The Art of Manliness. Retrieved from http://artofmanliness.com/2011/06/21/business-casual-clothing/
http://voices.yahoo.com/mens-guide-workplace-fashions-64322.html?cat=46
Antonio (2011). Business Casual: 5 Steps to Upgrading Your Business Casual Clothing. The Art of Manliness. Retrieved from http://artofmanliness.com/2011/06/21/business-casual-clothing/
Lauren Conrad's Work Apparel Commandments
1. Never let your outfit outshine your work.
Do not be more fashionable than you are valuable to the company.
2. Abstain from clothing with obnoxious logos.
No one wants a walking billboard in their office.
3. Avoid all sexy and revealing clothing.
Skirts should be knee length, and keep the cleavage out of the office.
4. Do not wear any ripped, torn, or sloppy clothing.
This includes anything that could be worn to the beach or the gym.
5. Always dress to impress, even on "casual Fridays".
Casual Fridays does not mean track pants. Your outfit should reflect your weekly work wear taken down a few notches.
6. Do not don underwear as outerwear.
Ever.
7. Always use your best judgment.
If you are unsure about an outfit, it is probably best to go with something else.
Conrad, L. (2011). Work It: 9 to 5 Style. Lauren Conrad. Retrieved from http://www.laurenconrad.com/post/work-it-9-to-5-style
Debrahlee Lorenzana vs. Citibank
Debrahlee Lorenzana has filed a lawsuit against Citibank. She claims to have been told by male superiors that she was not allowed to wear certain clothing items (even though they were acceptable according to the company's dress code) because her body was distracting. Citibank claims that she was let go because of her poor sales performance, and denies her allegations of gender discrimination.
Do you believe Debrahlee Lorenzana has a good case? How do you think a judge would rule? Why?
Comstock. C. (2010). Woman Says Citibank Fired Her Because She Was Too Hot. Business Insider. Retrieved from http://articles.businessinsider.com/2010
0602/wall_street/30045943_1_village-voice-court-case-chrysler-building
Watch the news report from MNSBC on this issue!
Do you believe Debrahlee Lorenzana has a good case? How do you think a judge would rule? Why?
Comstock. C. (2010). Woman Says Citibank Fired Her Because She Was Too Hot. Business Insider. Retrieved from http://articles.businessinsider.com/2010
0602/wall_street/30045943_1_village-voice-court-case-chrysler-building
Dressing for Success or Stress?
Business casual dress codes have exploded in the United States. Large companies such as Ford, General Motors, and Sears, have had these policies for quite some time, and are now being joined by smaller companies like law firms and advertising agencies. In some New York offices even slippers are allowed!
A few companies that adopted a more casual style are now revoking the policy, and returning to conventional business attire. These companies have seen "more and more casual attitudes and sometimes even a deterioration in work behaviour".
I think it is a little extreme to allow slippers in an office - that may promote napping instead of working! As far as law firms and advertising agencies, because these kinds of companies meet with clients face-to-face on a regular basis, they should adopt a more conventional dress code. I would feel more at ease with a lawyer in a suit rather than khakis and a golf shirt.
Why are some companies successful when a casual dress code is implemented, and some are not?
A few companies that adopted a more casual style are now revoking the policy, and returning to conventional business attire. These companies have seen "more and more casual attitudes and sometimes even a deterioration in work behaviour".
I think it is a little extreme to allow slippers in an office - that may promote napping instead of working! As far as law firms and advertising agencies, because these kinds of companies meet with clients face-to-face on a regular basis, they should adopt a more conventional dress code. I would feel more at ease with a lawyer in a suit rather than khakis and a golf shirt.
Why are some companies successful when a casual dress code is implemented, and some are not?
Author Unknown (2000). Casual Wear in the Office: Dressing for Success or Dressing for
Stress?. Knowledge @ Wharton. Retrieved from
Stress?. Knowledge @ Wharton. Retrieved from
http://knowledge.wharton.upenn.edu/article.cfm?articleid=194
Employee Morale Improved with Casual Dress Code
Many people used to think that if you had a professional job, you had to dress professionally. With a rise in technological companies over the last twenty years, this is no longer the norm. Technology based companies typically have a less formal dress code than other companies, and with the rapid growth of technology, it is evident that a casual dress code does not hinder corporate success.
Employees perceive this casual dress code as an added benefit! It does not cost a company any money or resources to implement it, and according to this article, will stimulate employee productivity.
I agree that productivity and creativity may increase among employees who are free to wear what they choose. It is much easier to concentrate on work when you are not worried about your suit strangling you!
Parus, B. (2000). Employee Morale Improves With Casual Dress Code, Smart Pros.
Retrieved from http://accounting.smartpros.com/x26280.xml
Employees perceive this casual dress code as an added benefit! It does not cost a company any money or resources to implement it, and according to this article, will stimulate employee productivity.
I agree that productivity and creativity may increase among employees who are free to wear what they choose. It is much easier to concentrate on work when you are not worried about your suit strangling you!
Parus, B. (2000). Employee Morale Improves With Casual Dress Code, Smart Pros.
Retrieved from http://accounting.smartpros.com/x26280.xml
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