Next month – on Friday, October 3 – thousands of organizations will participate in one of the largest cause marketing efforts of all time. Since 1996, Lee National Denim Day has raised close to $100 million for the fight against breast cancer.
The fundraiser is simple. For a $5 donation, employees get to wear denim to work. Some companies give employees the chance to donate money. Others will make the donation on behalf of their employees. The funds that are raised help the American Cancer Society find new ways to detect, prevent, and cure breast cancer.
The American Cancer Society’s efforts have contributed to a 34% drop in breast cancer deaths. But more work is absolutely necessary. One in eight women will develop breast cancer during her lifetime.
Last year, I shared with you some ideas for bringing denim day into your organization. This year, I wanted to do something a bit different. I don’t consider myself a fashionista but I do follow fashion trends. This fall appears to be all about denim.
I know sometimes we can be apprehensive to wear denim to the office because it might be perceived as less professional. Even when it’s for a worthwhile cause. So I wanted to share some great tips from Lee jeans about wearing denim to work.
Denim doesn’t have to always be pants. Not interested in wearing jean pants? Then don’t! Denim comes in all sorts of clothing. A denim shirt with dress slacks. I know lots of guys who would add a tie to the look. Or a denim jacket over a dress.
Dark denim is a classic. Save the distressed denim for the weekend. Dark colored denim gives a sophisticated look.
Shoes matter. Sneakers are not the only shoes that go with denim. Heels, sandals, dress shoes, etc. Your shoes can make the difference between professional and a little too casual.
Finish your look. Just because you’re wearing denim doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look put together. Add a classic navy blazer or a dressy cardigan. Don’t forget accessories like scarves and belts. Style your look, just like any other office day.
These tips apply to both ladies and gentlemen. It is possible to support a great cause, look professional, and have some fun at the same time. In fact, to prove the point, Lee jeans sent me some denim and has offered to send one lucky reader some too. Just in time for Denim Day. All you need to do is leave a comment on what kind of denim you’d like to wear. (I’ll select a name at random on September 3rd and post the winner in the comments.)
[Tweet “Lee National #DenimDay is Coming Soon – October 3”]
I hope you will join thousands of other organizations by registering your company to participate in Lee National Denim Day on Friday, October 3, 2014. Take casual to a whole new level for a great cause.
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Virginia says
Great article…I struggle with making jeans look professional at times and this was helpful! I love the dark jeans with embellishments on the back pockets.
Carolyn Sokol says
Love this article. I would wear something like this!
http://www.peocompare.com/product_pdfs/Denim%20Days.JPG
I absolutely cannot work if I am feeling uncomfortable, it makes me irritable and unable to focus. I am a big fan of dress down days!
Jamie Quinlin says
Our office is lucky to wear jeans daily, everyone is comfortable and more productive.
I love denim skinny capris!
Beth G. says
Great article that I will share with my team. I work for a conservative company. I love dark jeans in a trouser pant cut… comfy and professional…
Natalie says
Great article! I didn’t know about Lee National Denim Day and now I’m excited to share it. We’re a casual dress company so I love wearing jeans into the office while still looking professional.
Sharlyn Lauby says
Thanks for the comments! The winner is Carolyn Sokol.
Carolyn, send me an email at cheers [at] hrbartender dot com and I’ll connect you with the folks at Lee Jeans. Cheers!
Carolyn Sokol says
Yippee! I won! A BIG thank you to Lee Jeans and Sharlyn!