Dress
Code
for the New Millenium
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Over
the past decade or so, the highly entrenched attitudes about
what constitutes appropriate business attire have been turned
on their head. A new generation of workers, more interested
in comfort and individual expression than in trying to fit
into a rigid corporate mold, have worked their way into positions
of leadership and influence. And they have begun to exercise
this influence to dismantle traditional dress policies in
the most conservative institutions in America.
Even IBM, long known for its conservative
and inflexible dress policy finally relented as it became
obvious that its ultra-conservative culture was diminishing
its ability to attract top young talent. In 1995 it quietly
changed its dress policy and began to allow employees to come
to the office dressed in casual business attire.
In recent years, the casual dress movement
has gained significant momentum. A new less formal dress standard
has started to take hold. Of course, not everyone is pleased
by the new trend. Many managers fear that less formal dress
requirements will spill over into other aspects of their organizations
and ultimately lead to sloppiness in work and overall behavior.
However, one thing is certain - the new dress standard is
here to stay. For better or for worse, there is no going back.
As traditional standards come tumbling down,
employees are faced with a new dilemma: what is appropriate
and what is not? Traditional dress policies had well defined
expectations for appropriate attire. Today, those expectations
have become fuzzier and less clear-cut. Some employers are
reacting to this problem by providing specific dress guidelines.
More commonly, however, employers have instituted "casual"
dress policies but stopped short of providing specific details
on what constitutes appropriate casual dress.
This lack of explicit definition opens the
door to liberal interpretations on the part of employees eager
to test the limits of the new policies. As a consequence,
body-hugging spandex tops, micro-miniskirts, sandals, shorts
and t-shirts have all become common elements in the workplace.
This has spawned a whole new wave of casual office fashion,
from Nudie jeans to fun t-shirts. Redefining office fashion
has helped people express themselves more freely through their
wardrobe choices for work.
While comfort and freedom of expression
are certainly important, you should not lose sight of the
fact that workplace perceptions can have a significant influence
on your career. The image that you project to managers, directors
and senior executives will in large measure determine how
promotable they believe you are. Don't assume that because
you don't get a lot of face time with these people that they
do not notice you. They generally make it their business to
know who is coming up through the ranks and who is promotable.
A professional appearance can be an important first step on
the road to the executive suite. Consistently pushing the
limits of good taste and professionalism is more likely to
detract from your ultimate success in your profession - regardless
of how it may make your feel personally.
The following tips are intended to help
you navigate a successful career path while still retaining
a degree of individuality.
Request a Copy
of your Organization's
Dress Policy
As mentioned earlier, not all companies
have a detailed dress policy. That is o.k. If there is a dress
policy in effect, however, you should make sure you clearly
understand it. There is nothing wrong with approaching your
local human resources representative and asking for a copy
of it. If a written policy does not exist, you may request
verbal clarification on the company's dress standards.
Understand your
Organization's Culture
All organizations have their own unique
culture. Not all cultures are easily identifiable at first
glance, but upon careful examination, a cultural snapshot
will emerge. Generally, an organization's culture will be
defined largely by the reigning senior management team. In
some cases it will be defined by a single powerful individual.
By developing an understanding of the culture of your organization,
you will be in a better position to identify acceptable dress
standards. For instance, while shorts may never be an acceptable
apparel item for one organization - they may represent the
norm for another. Understanding and living within the framework
of the prevailing culture will typically maximize your opportunities
for advancement - all other things being equal.
When in Doubt -
Err on the Side of Conservatism
When preparing for an interview, dressing
for a first day on the job or entering into an unknown business
situation, it is usually wise to err on the side of being
more formal, professional and conservative than you think
you need to be - rather than the other way around.
It is far better to be the only person dressed
in a suit and tie than it is to be the only person in shorts
and loafers. The jacket and tie can always be removed. Exchanging
the shorts and loafers can pose a much more difficult challenge.
Cultivate an Image
of Professionalism
Decide what image you want to project and
then work diligently to create that image. Avoid clothing
and appearances that detract from that image. Cultivate the
image every day. Consider the people that you know or work
with. Identify those people who always have a positive and
professional appearance and demeanor - then think about what
it is that gives them that image. Try to emulate the positive
aspects of their dress and behavior.
Take your queues from the Executive Office.
For men, wearing pressed slacks several days per week along
with a crisp button down shirt or even a nice polo shirt will
add an element of professional style to your image. For women,
wearing a nice skirt with a pressed blouse occasionally will
also convey the same no-nonsense professional image. While
times have definitely changed, the clean cut and conservative
look is rarely out of place in a professional organization.
Just because your company has an ultra-casual
dress day on Fridays doesn't give you the license to come
to work looking dumpy. Keep in mind that this day, like every
other day contributes to your overall image.
Shoes should be kept clean, polished and
tied. Wearing scuffed shoes caked with dried mud or dirt shows
a lack of attention to detail. If the soles of your shoes
are wearing out - resole or replace them. It is often cheaper
to buy a new pair of shoes than to have shoes resoled - especially
if you watch for sales.
A nice belt for men and modest but attractive
accessories for women will complete your look. Don't skimp
here. Well thought out accessories can often add just the
right touch to a polished appearance. And men - make sure
your belt goes well with your shoes. If you struggle with
color and pattern coordination there are books available to
help you.
When it comes to jewelry - men should avoid
it - or be very modest. Layers of gold chains are not likely
to impress anyone. An open shirt - showing off a heavy gold
medallion may be hip in some circles - but is not appropriate
fare for corporate America. Women should use jewelry modestly
also. The same goes for makeup. A nice set of earrings and
an attractive necklace can improve an ensemble. Gaudy jewelry
and excessive makeup will generally detract from an otherwise
professional appearance.
Socks should match the outfit and not contrast
drastically with shoes and clothing. White gym socks are generally
not a good choice - unless you're wearing tennis shoes. Nice
hosiery can make a difference for women and men alike.
The Sad Truth about Conformity
If you have one of those personalities where
you just want to be you and that means being different and
unique - that's fine. But remember that continually setting
yourself apart from the crowd can sometimes work against you.
Ask yourself what message you are intentionally trying to
send.
Conformity is not always terrific, but being
way out there can create the perception that you are not a
team player, that you lack loyalty, or that you simply aren't
willing to put forth the effort to fit in to the organization.
Be careful.
If you have exceptional technical talent,
you may be able to get away with some "in your face" behavior.
However, remember that job security and promotability are
two different things in most companies. You may be technically
talented and secure in your current position, but if you do
not exhibit the characteristics that are considered important
for leading others then you may be passed over for promotions.
Fitness for a particular position does not equate to promotability.
Also, don't forget about the influence that
your peers can ultimately have on your career. Resentments
and hostilities resulting from presumptuous dress and behavior
can lead to disastrous consequences.
Dare to be Different
(once in a while)
If you follow the rules most of the time
- reward yourself by wearing something unique or going in
for an interesting hairstyle once in a while. Doing it occasionally
will add to your image and show that you possess creativity.
It can be a memorable and positive experience. Doing it consistently,
however, can be distracting and demonstrate defiance.
Every once in a while, it is nice to dress
up - really dress up. By wearing a nice formal business ensemble
periodically, you can set yourself apart in a very positive
way. Dressing up for important meetings is always a good idea.
Keep in mind, however, that this is also something that can
be overdone. Overdressing every day can lead to the perception
that you are uptight or that you are struggling to overcome
a poor self-image.
Good personal hygiene, manicured nails and
a simple, well-maintained hairstyle are critical but often
overlooked elements of a professional appearance. Avoid sloppiness.
One of the most frequent complaints among managers is that
many employees confuse "casual" with "sloppy". By taking a
little extra time and effort to press your clothing you will
add measurably to your overall appearance. A clean unrumpled
look will serve you well throughout your career.
Extreme hair styles are generally better
avoided in the workplace. Funky colors and styles may attract
attention, but not the right kind of attention.
There is no need to go overboard on cost.
Wear basic clothing that is neat, clean, and pressed and then
show a little attention to detail. The good news is that basic
clothing has become more affordable than ever. A full wardrobe
is not cheap, however. Trying to keep up with all the latest
styles is neither necessary nor justifiable. It is far better
to buy clothes that are time tested and then take care of
them. Mix and match to make your existing wardrobe go further.
Where possible, buy your clothes at the
end of the season. If you do this consistently you will end
up paying 25-60% less on average for your wardrobe. Buying
sweaters on clearance between April and June is a great way
to find a bargain. Likewise, stocking up on summer-wear in
August and September will save a lot of money. Keep your eyes
open for clearance sales. Go shopping once in a while without
buying anything. As you come to understand general prices
for quality clothing, you will be better able to recognize
good prices when you see them.
Fill your wardrobe with a solid collection
of basic, versatile clothing - taken from discount stores
and clearance racks. If you feel so inclined, buy a few more
expensive high impact items that will add a little extra flair
to your wardrobe. Avoid spending a lot of money on jewelry
- it can consume an inordinate share of your wardrobe budget
it you allow it to.
These tips are meant to serve as general
guidelines. By paying attention to your organization's culture
and demonstrating a basic level of good taste you will avoid
doing things that will detract from your professional image.
And don't be so conservative that you stop having fun. A professional
outfit without a smile will leave your career short changed!
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