Office Memo: Please Adhere To Dress Code In The Office

I cannot help but notice that the office dress-code has changed drastically. I am not sure whether it is good or bad but I believe professionals ought to dress the part. How can anybody take you seriously when you are dressed in a pair of denims coupled with a body- hugging tee?

How & When did Casual Office Dressing Take Root?
It all started with Casual Fridays. In an attempt to cut some slack, several offices introduced the concept of Casual Fridays where employees showed up in blue jeans. Soon that progressed to wearing running shoes with suits so we could go for a quick walk around the block during our lunch breaks. Before long, people started wearing sweats on Fridays and showing up on Monday mornings with disheveled hair and a hangover. What has happened to our sense of professionalism?

The summer months just make the problem worse. People use the warm weather as an excuse to show too much skin. It is not unusual to see professionals in sleeveless tops, short skirts and even flip flops. What ever happened to wearing dress shirts and ties even when it was ninety degrees outside? Apparently, we dont have to dress for the job when it gets a little hot outside.

Despite the fact that most workplaces are air conditioned, people continue to go to work dressed like they are leaving for a vacation at the beach. The new generation is changing to rules in the workforce and they have blurred the lines between appropriate office dress and casual weekend wardrobes. While some skimpy outfits are great for special occasions (like anniversary dinners!), they are never okay to wear to work. Apparently, a few people missed that memo.

Ultimately, the blame for the new professional dress code lies with everyone involved. Employers should require appropriate clothes from their employees at all times. This should not be negotiable and there should be no exceptions. At the same time, employees should come to work dressed for the job. They shouldnt have to be reminded to dress like a professional. If they want to become a successful person in the business world, they should take enough time to put on a nice suit and a tie.

Here are a few guidelines for business professionals who want to reclaim appropriate dress codes within the workplace.

Employer Guidelines:
If you have never had an actual written dress code, it is time to create one.

If you have an existing dress code, enforce it.

Set a good example by dressing with as much professionalism as possible.

Take disciplinary action immediately when someone breaks the dress code.

Dont just give reminders and warnings, but send employees home to change their clothes if they show up from work dressed inappropriately.

If you have a repeat offender, fire them. This may be unpleasant for a moment, but it will get attention from other employees who might also try to push the dress code limits.

Employee Guidelines:
When you begin a new job, ask for a copy of the company dress code.

If you are not sure if an outfit is appropriate, dont wear it. Err on the side of caution.

If you want to gain respect from company superiors, dress professionally at all times, even on Casual Fridays and other special occasions. Never come to work looking disheveled.

Dress for the job you want. If you are an intern striving to become an executive, stop wearing polo shirts and start wearing a suit and neck tie every day. Your superiors will notice the change.

Never show too much skin in the office. Even if your outfit does not break the dress code, if you are showing too much skin, it isnt professional.

Every workplace has different dress code expectations but you should always dress within the limits of professionalism. Reflect your companys image through your choice of clothing to make sure you give a good impression to your employer and fellow employees. Above all, remember that you are representing a company that pays your salary. Show some respect and dress appropriately for the job.

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