Work dress codes
Want to wear your worn-in jeans and battered Converse to work? While it might make you more comfortable in your workplace, it's likely to make your boss go bananas. Here's how to keep a happy balance without losing your cool.
Many employers' dress codes are now relaxing. If you're lucky, you'll begin working life in a relatively informal office. However, many companies still take clothes extremely seriously, especially in the more formal areas of business, finance and retail.
Rules of thumb
As a general rule, employees who come into contact with customers or business partners should be prepared to stick to these common rules:
Banned:
- T-shirts with brand labels, slogans or obscene images;
- Torn, dirty or crumpled clothing;
- Jogging bottoms or jeans. Denim in general;
- Hats;
- Flip-flops or trainers;
- For women: Strapless or halterneck tops; miniskirts; clothing which reveals too much flesh;
- For men: shorts or polo shirts.
Required:
- Shirt and tie for men;
- Smart, dark or black shoes;
- Trouser or skirt suit with a shirt for women.
'Dress-down Friday'
Many companies have a 'dress down' policy for Fridays. This means employees are allowed to return to a more relaxed and casual style, in preparation for the weekend. You may find that certain rules still apply, though. Few bosses would look too kindly on anyone turning up on Friday in an outrageously tiny miniskirt or a Havana-style shirt and shorts.
This is an easy way for bosses to make their employees think they care, and enjoy work a little bit more. It creates a festive atmosphere every Friday and makes people feel more cheerful. The Emily Post did a survey in the States showing 82% of workers thought it was a good idea.
From student to businessperson
Fresh out of college and daunted by the prospect of sprucing up to your employers' expectations? Here are a few tips on turning your grungy student wardrobe into a smart working wardrobe in preparation for that first day:
- Many of the clothes you already have will probably suffice for your first job. Black trousers can easily be combined with a smart shirt for the office.
- Accept that you'll have to splash out a little on your office wardrobe. There's no need to spend a fortune, but don't go to the cheapest high-street shops around, because cheap suits and jackets stand out a mile, and won't last long. One or two jackets, some good shoes and few smart shirts will do at first; you can buy more as you need them.
- If in doubt, accessorise. A bright scarf, tie and businesslike bag will do everything for an outfit. Office clothes don't have to be boring - just smart - and nobody will mind if you go all-out on accessories.
- Office dress codes are not just about clothes, but about personal care as well. You may need to trim those shaggy 'traveller' locks off, and have a wash every now and again.
