Comments on: Change the Dress Code

By: Sharlyn Lauby

Sharlyn Lauby — Sat, 02 Apr 2011 22:05:37 +0000

I love that the discussion about dress code continues. With reports that the cost of clothing is expected to increase in 2011, companies need to consider opting for a practical approach employees can afford.

By: Weetchy

Weetchy — Fri, 01 Apr 2011 23:55:52 +0000

I am in full agreement to the article. In our offices, we have some laid back managers and some dress code Nazi’s. We never see any outside clients’ because all of our visitors are co-workers from other offices or family members. Why should it matter if I wear nice dress Capri’s, a tasteful top, and sandals? We have a manager in particular who requires all pants to be creased, starched, and cannot have pockets on the back. You can only wear closed toe shoes which do not make any noise when you walk and ladies tops cannot dip lower than your collar bone. We work for a large, multinational oil and gas company, not a convent. I’m not saying that it is ok to let your cleavage hangout for all to see, but in style fashions that are nice and professional should be allowed. I also understand the need for a clean professional appearance but do dress codes really need to be so strict that the only options we have are a black shroud and head dress?

By: Donna

Donna — Tue, 15 Mar 2011 20:55:15 +0000

I couldn’t agree more with the need to really take a look at dress code, i.e., what is acceptable and unacceptable in the workplace? In most office environments, I would agree that some of the rules need to be tossed. Actually, among the office personnel in the hospital in which I work, I believe the rules have been tossed, which overall is positive. I do have to mention that I am still wondering when it became okay for professional women to wear low cut blouses, which would look great after 5pm at Happy Hour, but seem a bit less than professional in my estimation? As a nurse, I am less affected by dress code than other professionals, however, what is seen in the hospital environment is a far cry from what was taught in nursing school (and I have only been a nurse for 6 years, so I’m not talking ancient history…). As nursing students we were taught that simple jewelry, clear finger-nail polish (if any), and strict adherence to the facility uniform policy was a must. In my workplace, it’s not unusual to see nurses with loud, colorful finger-nail polish on their latex nails (an infection control nightmare), large dangling earrings, tight, short, clingy tops, exposing tatoos, etc. I understand the need for personal expression, but feel like departure from the dress code, in the health care environment results in appearances that are less than professional. I’m just saying…

By: iris n.

iris n. — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 21:20:46 +0000

Ah, restrictive dress codes Vs freedom to wear what we wish! I wanted to add a different perspective to this thread. In Japan, a dress code is very strictly enforced within the workpalce. They are all expected to purchase and keep their uniform in good condition. They are expected to look good, and that even includes their makeup. Although my aunt is a Japanese citizen, even she was getting annoyed because she was “advised” by her superior to take better care of herself and to put on some makeup when she comes in to work. This does not mean, however, that she dressed sloppily to work. She always dressed in her uniform, nicely pressed, with heels and pantyhose. But, they also wanted her to wear some light makeup.

Now, consider physicians and their dress code. Many studies have been published, that show that patients respect physicians who are dressed appropriately, in a suit and white coat. A physician’s skill has nothing to do with the way he/she dresses. Some of the most skilled of the physicians may choose to dress “relaxed” because he/she feels that he/she does not have to prove themselves by the way they dress… but would we really trust a physician who comes to see us dressed in jeans and t-shirt?

The third point I wanted to mention was that there are many individuals who dress “inappropriately” not because they want to, but its because they do not know what is appropriate or not. There are so many different types of cuts/slits/shapes in clothes, that one little mistake, and the slit could be too high or the shape could be too clingy or any other mistake. Everyone wants to show their individuality and work their fashion, but sometimes the appropriate clothes (with the style you want) is just not available! Personally, if I had my way, I would request that my employees wear a fashionable uniform (with various styles/patterns/combinations) that they can choose from.That way, they can exercise their individuality, while also putting some form of control over their attire.

By: Sharlyn Lauby

Sharlyn Lauby — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 17:32:15 +0000

I agree that global climate change and economics are starting to factor into dress code. I’ve been thinking for awhile about writing another post on work attire. You’ve given me the incentive to do it. Thanks!

By: kris

kris — Wed, 09 Jun 2010 16:50:31 +0000

Perhaps it’s time to reconsider dress codes, especially in light of global warming and economics. If suits were not requires, office thermostats could be set a few degrees warmer in summer, thus saving firms big $ and contributing less to CO2 emissions. You also make a good point regarding cleaning costs–it’s more than $20 to get a suit cleaned, and silk blouses cost more to dry clean than their purchase price. The main reason, though, to reconsider dress codes is productivity. If people are hired for their knowledge work and ability to solve problems, why on earth does this require them to wear makeup, pantyhose, heels and tight, uncomfortable suits? It’s instructive to see the scientists interviewed on NatGeo or PBS–they wear jeans, t-shirts, sandals and no makeup. Production work should emphasize safety and comfort. Since when does a suit guarantee trustworthiness?

By: Sharlyn Lauby

Sharlyn Lauby — Thu, 27 May 2010 23:18:57 +0000

I’m with you…jeans! Thanks for the comment Lindsay.