dress code in business essay

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Dress Codes in the Workplace: Effects on Organizational Culture

By angie shinn '12, ali swigart '12, ashley gritters '12 and matt schmailzl '11.

Organizational Behavior

For the piece on dress codes, students were to work as a team to complete a research paper on an organizational behavior topic. I selected this project because of the depth of research, it followed all of the specific guidelines, and it was well-written on a timely topic.

-Jann Freed

The purpose of this paper is to establish the effect of dress codes on organizational culture, employee morale, productivity, and performance. Three categories of dress codes have been established: formal, business casual, and casual. The paper describes the downsides of the three categories of dress, the different organizational climates each policy creates, and the various perceptions of the employee, clients, coworkers, and uppermanagement.

The paper also highlights the dress code trends throughout the past 30 years and explanations of implemented policy changes. There are many stipulations to consider before a company should apply a new dress code. This paper outlines the guidelines for dress code modification, as well as recommendations for the employees. If a new dress code policy is implemented, these guidelines will ease the transition and will minimize negative reactions to organizational change.

Introduction

Over the last 30 years, dress codes throughout corporations in the United States have undergone drastic changes. In the workplace, change has been most prominently seen in the areas of casual, business casual, and formal codes of dress. Research and analysis has confirmed that a corporation’s specified dress code policy has an interrelated effect on employee behavior, performance, and productivity.

“Dress is clearly a significant means of selfidentification and role definition. Personal styles have great psychological implications for both the wearer and the person interacting with the wearer” (Bowman & Hooper, 1991, p. 330). An organization’s dress code affects employees’ perceptions of the quality of their performance (Black & DiNardo, 1994; Peluchette & Karl, 2007). Additionally, an individual’s style of dress influences how colleagues, clients, and uppermanagement perceive them.

Dress code policies are one visual expression of the culture of an organization. Therefore, workplace attire is a key component in establishing the company’s desired organizational culture (Maysonave, 2001; McCarty, 2010; Wood & Benitez, 2003). The extent of formality of a dress code sets the stage for the type of environment the company wishes to create. If teamwork and unity are strong values in the organization, reducing status differences by standardizing the dress code among all employees will reinforce these organizational values. For example, all employees at Toyota Corporation wear polo shirts and khakis as a way of expressing a unified, team-oriented culture. Also, a casual dress code can help communicate a fun and friendly organizational culture. This may result in employees feeling empowered to deliver exceptional customer service which, in turn, strengthens the company’s fundamental value of providing service excellence (Peluchette & Karl, 2007).

Assumptions have been made regarding the relationship between a casual dress code and employee productivity. While initially the correlation was favorable, over time it has become a distraction to employees, as well as a liability for organizations. According to a survey of over one thousand human resource executives, almost half of the companies with a casual dress-down policy reported a significant increase in tardiness, absenteeism, and flirtatious behavior (Egodigwe & Alleyne, 2003). Another survey concluded that casual dress may lead to a casual work ethic (Peluchette & Karl, 2007, p. 349-350). In contrast, employees who dress formally (i.e. a suit and tie), are considered to have high credibility, are taken more seriously, and are more likely to be viewed as uppermanagement material from top executives (Chaney & Lyden, 1999; Wood & Benitez, 2003).

The purpose of this paper is to establish the correlation between dress code in the workplace and employee performance and morale. Three categories of dress codes will be discussed: casual, business casual, and formal, or sometimes referred to as traditional. While a more casual approach may boost employee morale and comfort, it may have a negative effect on performance (Lee, 2005). In addition to reviewing the literature of this topic, interviews with three managers have been included to illustrate how each company’s dress code is perceived to affect the performance and morale of employees.

History of Dress Code in the Workplace

Prior to the 1990s, workplace attire was predominantly formal, consisting of suits for both men and women. “The boundaries between work and after-work fashion were vividly clear: executive attire in the office, casual attire at home” (Lee, 2005, p. 32). This commonality among most office settings began shifting towards a more casual manner of dress. According to Mary Lou Andre, editor of dressing-well.com, “Business casual first entered the marketplace in the early ‘90s, during the last recession when folks were doing a lot of lay-offs. The people left behind had more work to do, less benefits, and fewer people to do [the work]” (Vangen, 2002, p. 12). This trend was aided by the invention of the Dockers brand in 1986, which allowed for a rise in the more affordable business casual manner of dress (Kiddie, 2009; McPherson, 1997; Sloan, 2000).

Soon after the recession began, the introduction of internet business drove business dress codes to become even more “dressdown.” This informal apparel ranged from t-shirts and jeans to polo shirts and khakis. By the mid to late nineties, business casual dress, at least on certain days, had become the norm for many major firms such as American Express, CitiBank, and IBM (Chaney & Lyden, 1999). As of June 1997, 83 % of U.S. companies surveyed had some form of casual dress policy (Boles, 1997). Levi Strauss & Company, creator of the Dockers brand, says, “The casual look was never meant to replace traditional Mondaythrough- Thursday business attire” (McPherson, 1997, p. 135).

From 1996 to 1999, retailers of formal office attire suffered a sharp drop in sales (Joans, 1996; Sloan, 2000). While casual dress was becoming more common, many organizations began to see a need for implementing written policies as employees started to dress as if they were headed to the playground rather than upholding their professional status. Early in the twentyfirst century, frustrated by worker’s inappropriate office attire, some companies hired wardrobe consultants to help employees with the “dos and don’ts” of corporate fashion (Parekh, 2005; Sloan, 2000; Spitznagel, 2010). Businesses mandating a return to formal policy typically believed that people were coming to work dressed too casually. Companies argued that a casual look can promote a laxness and has a negative impact on productivity (McIntyre, 1998; Maysonave, 2001).

Dress codes changed from casual to more formal styles around 2002 as major financial firms were starting to implement dress policies. This trend was reiterated by an increase in the sale of business suits (Kiddie, 2009). Corporations were particularly concerned with employees showing up with radical changes to their wardrobe such as piercings, stained clothing, and not properly groomed, creating a sloppy overall appearance. This resulted in some companies reinstating a suit and tie rule. According to a study from the Society for Human Resource Management, the percentage of casual dress policies dropped from 53 % in 2002 to 38 % in 2006 (Sowa, 2007; Wood & Benitez, 2003). The current trend is to dress for success, but the current styles permit various colors and have a more tailored, modern look. “Natural fibers, multiple buttons, and bolder ties and shirts are new trends, as America gets back to business” (Feingold, 2001, p. 3).

Elaborate changes in dress codes have occurred in the past twenty years, and there are endless combinations of dress code policies among organizations. However, the style of dress code can be placed on a continuum, ranging from casual to formal, and can be categorized into one of three categories: casual, business casual, and formal.

Trends in Casual Dress

Casual dress code policies originated after a short recession in the nineties, which caused many companies to downsize. The internet was introduced, compounding the need for long office hours and combined with a slump in the economy caused companies to adopt a more cost-effective dress policy (Black & DiNardo, 1994; Vangen, 2002). This new way of dressing paved the way for future corporate policy, allowing workers to shy away from the stuffy “old man in a tie” look to a more modern, comfortable look.

Dressing casually for work can increase employee performance and morale (Black & Dinardo, 1994). After a long day, a casually dressed employee can transition from work to home life with ease by sparing the time of undressing out of nice black shoes and pants just to go to out. Some companies argued against formal wear, referring to a 1999 survey that shows: “Companies that embraced casual business attire enjoyed a 40 % increase in productivity” (Kiddie, 2009, p. 352). This is an astounding growth for any company. Unfortunately, the initial upsurge of productivity did not last.

The downsides of casual workplace attire were soon realized. Damaged first impressions may be a result of dressing too casually at work, as unexpected meetings with clients and upper-management often arise. Additionally, a casually dressed employee may be perceived as unprofessional, incompetent, under-qualified, or uncommitted (Maysonave, 2001). Harry Beckwith, author of the book Selling the Invisible, says, “People do not simply form impressions, they become anchored to them. Busy people are apt to make snap judgments and then base all their later decisions on them” (Maysonave, 2001, p. 46).

Casual dress codes enhance an organizational culture of fun and friendliness, and some dot-com giants still use this method. For most companies, however, casual dress is inconsistent with business values and objectives because it communicates less credibility (Chaney & Lyden, 1999). Jill Bremer, an image coach and the owner of Bremer Communications, describes the threat of a “double-edged sword” when dress codes in the workplace become too relaxed. Although employee morale is usually positively affected by casual dress policies, professionalism suffers as a result (Parekh, 2005; Wood & Benitez, 2003). Therefore, a change was needed. The next category of dress code is the “happy medium” between the two extremes of casual and formal.

Trends in Business Casual Dress

The application of a business casual dress code has been seen as a highly valued employee benefit (McIntyre, 1998). “Millions of people are perplexed by the oxymoron ‘business casual’” (Maysonave, 2001, p. 46). Business casual dress includes clothing that is more relaxed and casual, but still projects a professional, business-like image. In today’s business world, business casual is often depicted by khakis or black pants with a collared shirt (“Business Attire,” 2008; Chaney & Lyden, 1999).

Business casual attire has allowed employees freedom from the costs associated with formal business attire, as well as giving them the ability to feel more relaxed while at work. According to Field, (2000), “Monday through Thursday, men have to wear shirts with collars and muted patterns; Fridays, Hawaiian shirts are O.K.” (p. 180). This is just one specific example from a company that follows business casual dress code.

Over time, business casual attire has become too casual. Vague written policies that only state acceptable attire, excluding specifics about inappropriate clothing, and employees continuously testing the dress codes’ boundaries contribute to this too-casual trend. This requires the company to reinforce or alter their written dress code. When modifications are made, it may be necessary for corporations to have fashion shows, give handouts with images of the “dos and don’ts” of business casual, or hire consultants to conduct employee seminars about the new policy (Lee, 2005; Maysonave, 2001).

Another drawback of business casual dress is the lack of authority the image portrays. As a result of this perception, individuals may have a harder time progressing up the corporate ladder (Chaney & Lyden, 1999; Black & DiNardo, 1994). Perceptions of the individual by clients may also be negatively affected, as a lack of authority is usually related to a diminished sense of trustworthiness.

Employees must realize that it’s impossible to make a neutral statement. As human beings, we are always communicating on the nonverbal level, even when we are speaking. Apparel choices are a huge part of that communication. Clothing impacts an individual’s image, either positively or negatively. When inappropriate apparel choices are consistently made, a negative impact extends to the entire corporation by giving the impression the company is lax or unprofessional. In today’s digital world, first impressions and ongoing impressions—the visual aspects—have never been more critical. (Maysonave, 2001, p. 46)

This being said, corporations must recognize the importance of advising employees of appropriate business casual attire for their specific organization. According to a survey of 616 business students, the preferred business casual dress attire for women consisted of “khaki pants with a coordinating blazer, followed by navy dress slacks with a gray jacket…most appropriate for men were a navy sports coat with gray dress slacks or casual slacks with a polo shirt” (Chaney & Lyden, 1999, p. 15).

Knowing the day’s schedule of events allows an employee to dress to serve the client. Lydia Lee, a Certified Public Accountant, says she likes to dress down for her clients, which makes the meeting more personal (Morton, 2007). It can be beneficial to promote the personal relationship by coordinating styles with the client’s, based on their degree of formality. Thus, business casual dress is most effective in personal situations as it creates more approachability and relaxation, unlike formal attire which is typically thought of as a more rigid and authoritative style of dress (McCarty, 2007; “Business Casual,” 2006).

Although there are many benefits of business casual, these policies can be open to a wide range of interpretation due to unspecified guidelines and broad descriptions (Lee, 2005). There is also an economic trend that exists. The need for competitive advantage in a business is essential in today’s cut-throat business world. Hence, some companies have adopted a traditional code of dress in order to clear up confusion and gain a leg up on the competition (McIntyre, 1998; Maysonave, 2001; Peluchette & Karl, 2007).

Trends in Business Formal Dress

Formal attire in a business environment includes suits and ties for men, while women require business suits with pants or a long skirt and a jacket. The conventional colors of professional dress are usually navy and black. This style of dress in the office environment was the norm until the dot-com boom of the nineties, when many companies opted for a more casual dress code. During the chaos of the internet craze, many firms could not compete and went out of business. In order to regain their positions in the market, the remaining companies began shifting towards a more formal dress code (Peluchette & Karl, 2007). Facloni (1996) says, “If dressing down has an effect on productivity, it is only negative. If you look sharp, you are more likely to act sharp.” (p. 13). Staff writer at National Society of Professional Engineers, Eva Kaplan-Leiserson (2000), concurs, “The way you look directly affects the way you think, feel, and act… When you dress down, you sit down – the couch potato trend. Manners break down, you begin to feel down, and you’re not as effective” (p. 39).

Dressing more formally and professionally exudes a message of authority, credibility, confidence, and a success-oriented attitude (McCarty, 2007). Where a more casual dress may be enforced to promote closer relationships among employees, formal dress is used to enhance status, respect, and efficiency (Lee, 2005; Peluchette & Karl, 2007).

The way one dresses in the workplace affects how they perceive themselves, and also how they are perceived by others. According to Peluchette and Karl (2007), “people adopting a formal attire in the work place believed that they could influence others’ views, achieve greater power and influence, and attain work- related outcomes, such as advancement or compensation increases” (p. 348). Because of economic conditions and other insecurities, many workers have begun to believe that polishing their image will help keep them employed (Stankevich 2002; Wood & Benitez, 2003). This is quite a different belief than the economic downturn during the dot-com era in the nineties, when casual dress was thought to be a competitive advantage.

During the hiring process, the interviewee’s formality of dress is a key factor. Formal dress in an interview conveys professionalism, confidence, and a success-driven attitude (Fetto, 2002). Applicants who are appropriately dressed at interviews are taken more seriously and create a lasting first impression, which is critical in order to gain an upper hand on the other applicants. In one survey, “Seventy percent of executives said they perceive employees dressed in suits to be more senior level, while 60 % said those in suits are taken more seriously” (“Business Casual,” 2006, p. 16).

“Many studies have been done that show a definite correlation between how we dress and how we act. When we’re dressed in appropriate business attire, we tend to act in appropriate business fashion. When we’re not, we don’t,” (Lee, 2005, p. 36). Advocates of formal dress codes believe that casual dressers not only leave their professionalism open to question, but may also jeopardize the professional reputation of the company for which they work for. Target Corporation recognized this threat and revised its dress code from business casual to jacket and tie in November of 2004. Target hoped it would inspire other corporations and companies to follow suit, so to speak. In regards to poorlydressed employees, the CEO of Global Success Strategies, Inc., said “they’re great at their jobs; however, they don’t have any idea how to present themselves professionally with their clothing, their body language, and their etiquette” (Lee, 2005, p. 33).

Guidelines and Case Studies

Casual dress codes were supposed to make the work environment more comfortable and less restrictive. Instead, many people experienced dress-down confusion (Field, 2000). Introduction of more strict written policies has been prominently instituted by managers in small companies to Fortune 500 corporate offices. Maysonave (2001), points out that, “executives are frustrated by the negative impact sloppy clothing is having on their corporate culture” (p. 46). It is uncommon to have attire perceived as unworthy for work, but more than 11 % of administrative professionals have witnessed a coworker being sent home from work to change clothes (“Business Attire,” 2008). Organizations have used dress codes to promote organizational values, norms, beliefs, and culture by directly influencing employee attitudes through their dress (Peluchette & Karl, 2007). Perception, either self or observed, becomes the reality of the corporation.

In order to collect current information, a questionnaire that was emailed to three local companies to see what real-life dress policies are implemented in their workplace. The industries of the respondents were manufacturing, financial planning, banking, and heavy equipment sales. The people were Tim Meier, Vice President of Marketing at Collins Community Credit Union of Cedar Rapids; Randall Schmailzl, a financial planner at New York Life of Des Moines; and Laurie Haynes, Inventory Control Manager at Precision Pulley and Idler of Pella.

Laurie Haynes has always been affected by a dress policy at work. In the nineteen years she has been at the company, the most recent change to the dress code involved a committee. The committee had a presentation which included pictures to help spell out the dos and don’ts, and punishment was also discussed for each occurrence. In order to modify dress policy, involving wardrobe committees was a common theme in all the industries.

The financial planning and banking industries had formal attire in the office, but outside the office appointments are subject to the opinion of the employee. The heavy equipment sales company was the only industry without a formal written policy to dictate attire at work. Rick Boat, the manager of a Vermeer dealership outside of Pella, Iowa said the lack of a policy “is due to the clients served by the heavy equipment retail industry who are typically farmers and local construction businesses.”

Based on this research, two sets of guidelines for implementation of dress policy are provided: one set for the company, and one for the employee. Guidelines for the Company

1. Before implementing a new dress policy note the preferences of employees in order to more accurately predict the impact on employees’ attitudes and behaviors.

2. Ease into changes of the dress code policy. Making a major transition too abruptly could have a negative effect on employee productivity, performance, and budget (Peluchette & Karl, 2007).

3. Have a set of clearly defined guidelines for dos and don’ts about work place attire (Reddick, 2007).

4. Make sure employees are aware of the punishment involved in not adhering to the policy.

5. Be open to feedback from employees, and be able to reasonably explain why policy changes are needed.

6. Make sure every employee affected by the policy is aware of new expectations. The easiest way is through e-mail, a large group meeting, or an updated employee handbook.

7. Lead by example (Hanley, 2009).

Guidelines for the Employee

While many organizations have an established dress code, sometimes the policies are not clear. If an individual is unsure of the dress code expectations, they should start by building on their existing wardrobe. This means purchasing basics that they know are appropriate and that coordinate with what they already have in their wardrobe. It is best to invest in high quality natural fabrics such as 100% wool in colors that are neutral, such as navy, gray, and black (Egodigwe & Alleyne, 2003). The following are some tips for dressing for success:

1. Wear clothes that fit your body type (Kopulos, 2009).

2. Avoid wearing lowcut, see-through, or formfitting shirts (McCarty, 2010; Kopulos, 2009)

3. Cover tattoos and remove all body piercings (Kopulos, 2009).

4. Make sure hair is wellgroomed (Kopulos, 2009).

5. Remember: less is more. This rule applies for makeup, jewelry, perfume, and cologne (McCarty, 2010; Kopulos, 2009).

6. Wear shoes that are closed toed with little to no heel, and of neutral color (McCarty, 2010; Kopulos, 2009).

7. For women, make sure that skirts are no shorter than two inches above the knee (Kopulos, 2009).

Imagine Consultants/Coaching

Trevor Book, “Untitled,” Acrylic on paper, 22” x 30”

There’s an entire generation that grew up in what was a progressively more casual atmosphere and then entered the workforce in the period of time where business casual was really taking over, …very aware of the fact that if they’re expecting employees to upgrade their wardrobe, they need to provide something to soften the blow (Parekh, 2005, p. 28).

In 2002, a survey by Mervyn’s department store chain revealed that 90% of office workers did not know the difference between formal business attire, business casual, and casual dress (Spitznagel, 2010). Many organizations are turning to professional coaching and consulting firms while creating their dress code. Though professional seminars can run anywhere between 1000 and 4,000 dollars, corporations are spending money to ensure that they are not losing business because of the attire of their employees. “When competition is tough and business harder to come by, image management can give you the edge when it matters most, and it really can affect your bottom line” (Hanley, 2009, p. 27).

Image coaching helps managers to build cohesive teams and provides a consistency in company branding. According to Sally Hanley (2009), a professional image consultant for more than 15 years, says that image coaching helps to “build trust and reliability in the eyes of clients and colleagues alike” (p. 27). Some employees’ styles of dress become a problem due to poor definition of dress code specifics by the employer (Parekh, 2005). A great example of a dress code that gives examples of acceptable and unacceptable attire for both men and woman can be found in Appendix C on Figures 1 and 2. Another professional image coach, Jill Bremmer, says, “It really helps for them to hear it from somebody from the outside, who can be objective and be the messenger” (Parekh, 2005, p. 28).

The U.S. is an industrial powerhouse and Americans spend billions of dollars on business wardrobes, hairstyling, plastic surgery, and physical training to put them ahead of the competition. From economic progress to economic downturn, styles have changed vividly over the past 30 years. During the rise of America as an economic leader, many changes were taking place to the culture and it affected people’s opinions of what is appropriate business attire. After the introduction of the electronic age, businesses began to recognize the negative effects of a casual dress code. Managers realized that a classy, professional dress policy led to favorable business results. This idea carried over into the current global economy.

Casual dress codes encouraged a relaxed and friendly work environment for employees, but promoted lack of authority and professionalism. These downfalls helped lead to a more modern business casual look that was based on upholding standards of quality in the workplace. A business casual environment provides a happy medium between casual and formal dress codes. Workers show more efficiency and authority at the workplace when they are required to leave their natural, everyday attire.

The pinnacle of problems surrounding the business casual dress code is the definition of “business casual” itself. There is a broad spectrum of ways to interpret business casual, which is why employers using a business casual dress code should incorporate help of image consultants and clearly defining dos and don’ts with the use of visuals. To eliminate the ambiguity of business casual, some employers depend on a well-established formal code of dress. A formal dress policy can flatten an organization’s hierarchy and increase cohesiveness in the workplace. Although formal attire may be perceived as rigid or less friendly, clients generally have more confidence in an employee that is more formally dressed.

While a more casual approach may boost employee morale and comfort, it can have a negative effect on performance. Presenting oneself professionally at the workplace promotes selfconfidence and competence. Formal dress also enhances a positive perception from top managers and business clients. Organizations that show commitment to the personal development of their staff tend to have employees who feel more valued (Hanley, 2009). In order to balance professionalism with employee morale, organizations should consider having periodic casual days as an incentive to increase productivity and performance.

Research concludes that while there is no standard dress code, there is a system where each industry identifies trends to promote optimum efficiency. When creating and implementing a dress code, organizations must consider their mission statement and values, as well as the culture they wish to portray. As a visual expression of these factors, dress code policy carries immense significance for all business organizations.

Lars Larson, “Early morning,” Acrylic on paper, 22” x 30”

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The New Rules of Work Clothes

• Allison Shapira

People’s tolerance for discomfort — and conformity — has changed.

After two years of hastily throwing a business jacket over a T-shirt and sweatpants while letting people into our homes during the Covid-19 pandemic, our tolerance for conformity — and discomfort — has changed. The business dress code is evolving. Have you been rethinking your work attire as you transition back into the office, but you’re worried about what others will think? In this piece, the author offers practical steps to try if you’re considering changing things up. 

I remember my first keynote speech for a major Fortune 50 financial institution. I wanted to make a powerful first impression, so I went to Nordstrom and spent 10% of my speaking fee on Jimmy Choo shoes that would “demonstrate my business success.” I’ve since worn those black stilettos on stages around the world. And while they do indeed make me feel strong and powerful, they also hurt my feet.

• Allison Shapira teaches “The Arts of Communication” at the Harvard Kennedy School and is the Founder/CEO of Global Public Speaking, a training firm that helps emerging and established leaders to speak clearly, concisely, and confidently. She is the author of the new book, Speak with Impact: How to Command the Room and Influence Others (HarperCollins Leadership).

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August 02, 2021

Dress Codes in the Modern Workplace: An Employer's Guide to Avoiding Pitfalls and Liability

Amid the ever-evolving landscape of workplace discrimination laws, savvy employers must regularly review their personnel policies and procedures to ensure compliance with the most recent legal guidance and developments. For many, it may come as a surprise that company dress codes are among the workplace policies that have been the subject of increased litigation and scrutiny by courts and administrative agencies charged with enforcing anti-discrimination laws. Company dress codes and grooming policies could give rise to a wide variety of legal claims, including employee claims alleging gender discrimination or stereotyping, race or national origin discrimination (e.g., "hairstyle discrimination"), or a failure to provide a religious or medical accommodation or exception to a company policy. Here is what you need to know to assess whether your corporate dress code leaves your company vulnerable to the most common employment claims and, if necessary, some best practice tips to revamp your policy.

Dress Codes Generally

As a general matter, employers have a right to impose reasonable restrictions on employee appearance and attire worn in the workplace. Courts have regularly recognized that employers may have a legitimate business interest in their employees presenting a professional appearance at work, particularly when employees are expected to interact with customers or other third parties. Employers may also have a legitimate interest in imposing certain attire restrictions when the attire could present a safety hazard due to the nature of the employee's work. Dress code and appearance policies may land employers in hot water, however, when they exclude or impose an unequal burden on any class of employees, require adherence to gender stereotypes, do not allow for reasonable religious or medical accommodations, or when the policy is enforced only for certain employees.

Gender-Specific Requirements

Historically, courts have interpreted Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 (Title VII) to permit employer policies that impose reasonable variations in dress and appearance requirements for male and female employees, as long as the policy is applied uniformly to all employees and does not impose an unequal burden on one sex over the other. For example, courts have historically upheld policies that impose different hair length restrictions for male and female employees. While such gender-specific requirements may be generally permissible under federal law, at least for the time being, employers with gender-specific policies still risk liability under a Title VII "gender stereotyping" theory, alleging that a company requires employees to conform to traditional gender stereotypes by requiring employees to wear attire traditionally "expected" of the employee's gender (e.g., requiring female employees to wear dresses or skirts instead of pants).

In addition, a number of states and local jurisdictions have enacted laws that impose stricter requirements than Title VII. New York City, for example, expressly prohibits employers from adopting any dress code, grooming, or appearance standards that impose different requirements for workers based on gender . In California, it is unlawful for an employer to refuse to permit an employee to wear pants on account of the sex of the employee. In Washington, DC, employers are prohibited from discriminating against employees on the basis of an employee's appearance, which expressly includes an employee's manner or style of dress and personal grooming.

Gender Identity and Expression

Gender-specific policies can also give rise to claims alleging discrimination on the basis of gender identity or expression. The Supreme Court held last year in Bostock v. Clayton County, Georgia and R.G. & G.R. Harris Funeral Homes Inc. v. EEOC that Title VII's prohibition against discrimination on the basis of "sex" extended to prohibit discrimination on the basis of an employee's sexual orientation and/or gender identity. Similarly, many state and local jurisdictions specifically prohibit discrimination on the basis of an employee's gender identity or expression, and some states expressly require that employers permit an employee to appear or dress consistently with the employee's gender identity or gender expression. Enforcing a gender-specific dress code or appearance policy on a transgender, non-binary, or gender non-conforming employee may therefore run afoul of both Title VII and applicable state or local law.

Hairstyle Discrimination

A growing number of state and local jurisdictions have recently passed laws or issued guidance prohibiting employers from adopting policies that ban or limit hairstyles or grooming practices associated with racial characteristics. For example, both Maryland and Virginia recently expanded the definition of "race" in their state anti-discrimination laws to expressly encompass traits historically associated with race, including hair texture and type, afro hairstyles, and protective hairstyles, which specifically include braids, twists, and locks. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has also taken the position that Title VII prohibits employer policies that do not permit African American employees to wear their hair in a natural hairstyle.

Religious and Medical Accommodations

Title VII prohibits discrimination on the basis of an employee's religion and requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations to employees whose sincerely held religious beliefs conflict with a work requirement, unless doing so would pose an undue hardship on the company. The EEOC has issued guidance advising that employers must make exceptions to their company dress code and grooming policies for employees who seek to wear religious clothing or articles (e.g., Muslim hijab), who observe a religious prohibition against wearing certain garments (e.g., an Orthodox Jewish woman's practice of not wearing pants), or who adhere to certain religious grooming practices (e.g., a Sikh man's practice of not cutting his hair and beard). The Americans with Disabilities Act further requires employers to make reasonable accommodations for qualified employees with a disability, unless doing so would impose an undue burden on the employer's business. This includes making exceptions for employees whose disability makes it difficult to comply with the company dress code or grooming policy. For example, an employer with a grooming policy that generally prohibits employees from wearing facial hair may need to make an exception for an employee with a medical condition that makes it difficult to shave (e.g., pseudofolliculitis barbae).

Union and Concerted Activity

Certain dress code and appearance standards may also violate employees' rights under the National Labor Relation Act (NLRA). The NLRA protects employees' rights to express their support for or opposition to a union (e.g., to wear union insignia) and to engage in other concerted activities, such as discussing terms and conditions of employment. For example, the National Labor Relations Board has historically ruled that a company dress code prohibiting clothing displaying words or images that are "derogatory to the Company" is overbroad and impermissibly restricts employees' rights under the NLRA. A company dress code that prohibits or restricts employees from wearing union insignia or engaging in other protected activities must be based on a legitimate business need (e.g., safety concerns) and must be narrowly tailored to the special circumstances justifying the rule (e.g., restriction applies only to certain work areas).

Best Practices for Dress Codes in a Modern Workplace

Employers looking to update their company dress code to conform with recent legal trends may consider removing any unnecessary details and restrictions. For instance, the policy should avoid specifying hairstyles that are permitted or prohibited in the workplace. Companies can often achieve their objectives through simple, neutral directives, like a requirement that employees always present "a professional appearance" or a requirement that employees wear "professional business attire" on days that they interact with clients. This gives employees the flexibility to choose their own clothing and present an appearance that conforms with their gender identity and expression, cultural and racial heritage, and religious beliefs. Employers that have a legitimate business reason for specifying types of required or prohibited clothing or standards of appearance should ensure that all such requirements are reasonable and tailored to the needs of the specific position. Any dress, grooming, or appearance policy should generally be gender-neutral and applicable to all employees, except in limited circumstances where the company has some specific, work-related reason for a gender-specific requirement. Employers should also be ready to engage with employees about and make exceptions to their policies when needed to accommodate an employee with a religious practice or medical condition that makes it difficult to comply with the policy.

Legal guidance is likely to evolve over time as courts and administrative agencies apply recently enacted laws and interpret recently decided court decisions bearing on these issues. If you have questions about your company's dress code or any issues discussed in this article, please contact the authors or any other attorney in Venable's Labor and Employment Group .

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A Comprehensive Guide to Business Attire (with Examples)

A comprehensive guide to business attire: examples and tips.

With various dress codes, expectations, and styles, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of what is considered appropriate and professional in different settings. Understanding the difference between business formal, business professional, and business casual attire is crucial for those entering or already immersed in the corporate world. These dress codes vary in formality and are often dictated by the industry or company culture. This guide will break down the different types of business attire, provide examples for each category, and offer tips to help you make the best impression in your professional life.

Understanding Business Attire Categories

Business formal.

Business formal attire is the most formal dress code in a professional setting. It is often required for high-level events or meetings and includes clothing items such as dark suits and ties, skirt suits, or suit dresses. For both men and women, classic, conservative colors like black, navy, or charcoal gray are preferred.

Examples of business formal attire:

• A dark pants suit or skirt suit with a light button-down shirt and formal shoes like Oxfords, loafers, heels, or formal flats.
• A black suit with a white button-down shirt, a tie, and polished dress shoes.
• A long evening gown for formal events (in some cases).

Business Professional

Business professional attire is slightly less formal than business formal and is often required in industries like finance, law, government, and accounting. Men can wear dark-colored suits, dress shirts, ties, and dress shoes, while women can opt for dresses, slacks, skirts, or suits with blazers, paired with heels or flats.

Examples of business professional attire:

• A crisp button-down shirt or blouse with a blazer, dress pants or skirt, and loafers or heels.
• A well-fitted dark-colored suit with a conservative tie and dress shoes.
• A tidy dress with a blazer or a collared blouse and dress pants, accompanied by professional shoes.

Business Casual

Business casual attire strikes a balance between formal and casual dress codes. This category allows for more variety and personal expression and is often the standard dress code in modern work environments. Business casual attire can include khaki pants, printed dresses, jumpers, or polo shirts with the company logo.

Examples of business casual attire:

• Khaki pants with a polo shirt or a button-down shirt, paired with loafers or flats.
• A printed dress or jumper with a cardigan, blazer, or light jacket and comfortable shoes.
• Dressy jeans or slacks with a collared shirt, sweater, or blouse and casual yet polished shoes.

Casual attire is the most relaxed dress code and is typically reserved for informal events or workplaces with a laid-back atmosphere. This category includes clothing items like jeans, casual dresses, t-shirts, and sneakers. It’s essential to maintain a polished and professional appearance even in a casual setting, so avoid overly distressed clothing, athletic wear, or revealing garments.

Examples of casual attire:

• Dark, well-fitted jeans with a casual blouse or button-down shirt and fashionable sneakers or casual shoes.
• A casual dress or skirt with a simple top, paired with sandals or flats.
• A comfortable yet polished t-shirt with chinos or relaxed-fit slacks and casual shoes.

Business Formal Attire

Business formal attire for men typically consists of a two-piece suit in dark, tailored colors like gray, brown, navy, or black. A classic button-down shirt in a muted color is an essential part of men’s business formal attire. The tie should be conservative in design and color. Polished leather dress shoes such as Oxfords or loafers are essential, and leather belts should match the shoe color.

Women’s business formal attire includes a well-tailored skirt suit or pantsuit in dark colors like black, navy, or gray. The suit should be paired with a modest, simple blouse or button-down shirt. Footwear should be conservative, with either heels or formal flats in a neutral color. Hosiery is recommended when wearing a skirt. Jewelry and accessories should be minimal and elegant.

• For men: A navy suit, light blue button-down shirt, and a conservative red tie, paired with black leather Oxfords and a matching belt.
• For women: A black skirt suit with a white blouse, low-to-medium height heel shoes in a neutral color, and delicate, simple jewelry.

Business Professional Attire

Business professional attire for men typically consists of a suit or a blazer with a pair of dress pants. Dark-colored suits in shades like gray, brown, navy, or black are the most suitable choices. A classic button-down shirt, preferably in muted colors, should be worn with the suit or blazer. A matching tie is also essential to complete the look.

Men are advised to wear polished dress shoes, such as Oxfords or loafers, with business professional attire. Socks should be darker shades that complement the suit and not too flashy. The belt should also match the shoes for a cohesive appearance.

For women, business professional attire includes tidy dresses, pencil skirts, or slacks. Dresses and skirts should be knee-length or longer. Pairing a skirt or slacks with a neat button-down shirt or blouse is recommended. A blazer is also essential for a complete business professional look. Women can opt for conservative, well-fitted suits as well.

Shoes for business professional attire would include closed-toe heels, flats, or loafers. Women should opt for hosiery that matches their skin tone or the color of their skirt or pants. Accessories should be minimal, and makeup should be kept to a natural-looking, professional appearance.

• Men: A navy suit with a crisp white button-down shirt, black tie, black Oxford shoes, and black dress socks.
• Women: A charcoal gray skirt suit with a light blue blouse, black pumps, and sheer black pantyhose.

Business Casual Attire

Business casual attire for men typically incorporates a balance between professional and comfortable clothing. Men can opt for button-down shirts, polo shirts, or collared shirts, which can be paired with dress slacks or khakis. Dark jeans without holes or tears can also be acceptable in some workplaces. In terms of footwear, loafers, Oxfords, or tie-up shoes are suitable options.

Women’s business casual attire is similar to men’s in terms of balancing professionalism with comfort. Appropriate options for women include blouses, sweaters, and button-down shirts worn with slacks or skirts (knee-length or longer). Dark jeans without holes can also be suitable in some settings. Alternatively, knee-length or maxi dresses may be appropriate. For footwear, women can wear closed-toed shoes like pumps, flats, or boots.

Here are a few examples of business casual attire for both men and women:

• Light blue button-down shirt paired with khaki pants and brown Oxfords.
• White polo shirt with dark dress pants and loafers.
• Black blouse, knee-length skirt, and black pumps.
• Maxi dress with a cardigan and flats.

Casual Attire

Casual attire for men allows for more freedom in choosing clothing items and styles. This can include jeans, chinos, or khaki pants, which can be paired with a variety of shirt styles, such as polo shirts, casual button-down shirts, and t-shirts. Footwear options can range from sneakers to loafers, depending on the occasion and the colors in your outfit. It is important to keep your clothing items clean, pressed, and in good condition.

Women’s casual attire can include a wide range of clothing items and styles, such as skirts, dresses, jeans, leggings, or pants. Tops can range from simple t-shirts to blouses or casual button-down shirts. Shoes can include flats, sandals, sneakers, or low-heeled options, depending on the outfit and the occasion. Accessories, such as jewelry or scarves, can be added to personalize and enhance the overall look.

• Men’s casual outfit : A pair of dark-wash jeans or chinos, a white polo or casual button-down shirt, and a pair of clean sneakers or loafers.
• Women’s casual outfit : A knee-length skirt or dress, a simple blouse or t-shirt, and a pair of comfortable flats or sandals. Or, a pair of jeans or leggings, a casual button-down shirt or tunic, and a pair of low-heeled shoes or sneakers.

Dressing for Different Industries

Finance and legal.

In the finance and legal sectors, business attire typically leans more formal. This is because these industries are often associated with professionalism and a conservative dress code. For both men and women, a dark suit is the standard choice. Men should wear a matching tie, and a light-colored button-down shirt. For women, options include a skirt suit, pantsuit, or a suit dress. Appropriate shoes for both sexes include formal flats, heels, Oxfords, or loafers.

• Men: Dark suit, white button-down shirt, and matching tie
• Women: Black skirt suit with a light-colored blouse
• Women: Dark pantsuit with a button-down shirt

The technology industry is known for having a more relaxed dress code compared to finance and legal sectors. Business casual attire is often the norm here. However, it is still crucial to maintain a professional appearance, especially if you are meeting clients or attending a formal event. Men can wear slacks or khaki pants paired with a collared shirt. Women can opt for slacks or a knee-length skirt with a blouse, a mid-length professional dress, or a polo shirt.

• Men: Khaki pants, collared shirt with or without a tie
• Women: Mid-length professional dress and a sweater or blazer
• Women: Slacks, blouse, and a cardigan

Creative industries, such as advertising or design, often allow for more flexibility and self-expression in terms of dress code. Business casual attire is common, but you can usually incorporate more colors, patterns, and unique pieces into your outfit. However, maintaining a professional look is essential, even in a more casual environment. Men can try pairing colored or patterned slacks with a casual button-down shirt or sweater, while women can experiment with bold prints, skirts, and unique accessories.

• Men: Patterned slacks, button-down shirt, and a sweater
• Women: Bold print dress with a blazer or cardigan
• Women: Colorful skirt, blouse, and statement accessories

Occasion-Based Tips

When dressing for an interview, it is crucial to make a positive first impression by wearing appropriate attire. Business professional attire is typically recommended for interviews, ensuring a polished appearance. Examples of appropriate interview attire include:

• Dark-colored business suit
• Solid light-colored or white button-down shirt with sleeves
• Conservative colored tie

It is also essential to wear clean, polished dress shoes and ensure that your hair, nails, and facial hair are clean and neatly groomed.

Meetings and Presentations

For meetings and presentations, business professional or business casual attire may be suitable, depending on your role and the company’s dress code. When in doubt, opt for a more formal look to convey professionalism. Some examples of attire for meetings and presentations include:

• Dress shirt or blouse with a blazer
• Dress slacks or skirt
• Heels, loafers, or flats

Incorporate light or muted tones in clothing and avoid colors and patterns that are too bold. Stripes are a safe choice for patterns, if necessary.

Networking Events

Networking events can range from informal meetups to more formal gatherings. As a rule of thumb, choose business casual attire to balance professionalism and approachability. Examples of business casual attire for networking events include:

• Button-down shirts or polo shirts
• Sweaters or collared shirts
• Dress slacks, khaki pants, or dark denim jeans without holes or tears

Shoes should be appropriate for the event, such as loafers, Oxfords, or tie-up shoes. Always remember to dress for the company culture and adjust your attire accordingly, keeping in mind that your appearance represents your professionalism in these settings.

Seasonal Considerations

Seasonal factors can influence the choice of fabrics, colors, and style of clothing:

During the summer months, professionals should prioritize lightweight fabrics that help with breathability and allow for better air circulation. Opt for materials such as cotton, linen, or lightweight wool blends to avoid excessive perspiration and maintain a professional appearance.

Colors can also help maintain a summer business wardrobe. Lighter, muted tones can be versatile and professional. Look for options like light gray, beige, and light blue for suits, slacks, and skirts.

Some summer business attire examples include:

• A light-colored, lightweight suit with a white button-down shirt and a subtle patterned tie.
• A beige linen dress with a lightweight blazer and dress sandals.
• A light gray, tailored skirt and short-sleeved blouse paired with peep-toe heels.

In the colder months, it’s crucial to stay warm while maintaining a professional appearance. Choose heavier fabrics such as wool, cashmere, or tweed for suits, jackets, and skirts. Layering can be essential to keep warm; wear thermal or silk undergarments to retain heat without adding bulk to the outfit.

Winter business colors tend to be darker and more conservative. Opt for navy, charcoal, or deep burgundy as they convey professionalism and confidence.

Some winter business attire examples include:

• A charcoal wool suit with a crisp white dress shirt, a dark-colored tie, and black Oxford shoes.
• A navy sweater dress with tights, ankle boots, and a structured blazer.
• A tweed skirt paired with a cashmere turtleneck sweater and leather knee-high boots.

Maintaining Your Wardrobe

Investing in timeless pieces.

When selecting business attire, it’s essential to invest in timeless pieces that can be easily mixed and matched to create various outfits. Classic clothing items, such as a well-fitted blazer, tailored trousers, or a pencil skirt, are worth investing in, as they will never go out of style. Also, consider investing in high-quality materials like wool, silk, and cotton, which are not only more durable but also exude professionalism.

Examples of timeless pieces include:

• Dark-colored suit (navy, black, or charcoal)
• Crisp, white button-down shirt
• Tailored dress pants or a pencil skirt

Caring for Your Clothes

Proper care and maintenance of your business attire are crucial for ensuring your garments remain in excellent condition and continue to project a professional appearance. Regularly laundering and pressing your clothes will help remove any stains and wrinkles, maintaining a crisp, clean look. When cleaning your garments, be sure to follow the specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid damage.

Shoe care is also vital, so make sure to polish and clean your dress shoes as needed. Investing in quality shoe trees can help keep the shape of your shoes and prolong their lifespan.

To keep your clothes organized and easy to access, develop a system for organizing your wardrobe. This could include separate sections for different types of garments, hanging similar items together, or arranging clothes by color.

Some tips for caring for your clothes include:

• Always read and follow care label instructions
• Use quality pressing irons and gentle detergents
• Store your clothes properly, using padded hangers to avoid creasing

Invest time in maintaining your wardrobe, and you’ll always be prepared to put your best foot forward in the professional world.

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IELTS Essay: Employee Dress Code

by Dave | Real Past Tests | 7 Comments

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of whether or not companies should focus on making sure employees follow a dress code from the real IELTS exam.

Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my exclusive IELTS Ebooks – you can even sign up for private live lessons with me!

Some people think employers should not care about the way their employees dress, but the quality at work.

To what extent you agree or disagree?

Many are of the belief that corporations should prioritize quality work over appropriate workplace attire. In my opinion, there are limits to this sentiment; however, it is largely justified as other areas are more crucial to success.

Those in favor of a strict dress code argue that it fosters professionalism. Appearance is important not only for clients and customers but also workers themselves. An employee who dresses well for work is similar to an actor preparing for a performance. The appearance of professionalism is likely engender the same level of diligence to their work. This becomes part of a cycle as customers notice the attention to detail and workers become aware they are essentially performing. The best illustration of this is professions that require uniforms, such as doctors and police officers, and thus fully embody their public role.

However, the quality of the work itself is paramount. In recent years, corporations have relaxed dress codes in recognition of this fact. For example, many technology companies in Silicon Valley including Facebook and Google are famous for a more casual approach to attire. This policy begins with the CEOs and executives who eschew traditional suits for jeans, normal shirts, and comfortable shoes. This signals that the success of a company depends more on the output of their work. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot code or contribute meaningfully to a high-achieving team is in fact a hindrance to success. The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement.

In conclusion, the minor benefits of dress codes for professionalism are outweighed by the recognition of the importance of real work. Companies should therefore strive to uphold values with tangible impact.

1. Many are of the belief that corporations should prioritize quality work over appropriate workplace attire. 2. In my opinion, there are limits to this sentiment; however, it is largely justified as other areas are more crucial to success.

• Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
• Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here .

1. Those in favor of a strict dress code argue that it fosters professionalism. 2. Appearance is important not only for clients and customers but also workers themselves. 3. An employee who dresses well for work is similar to an actor preparing for a performance. 4. The appearance of professionalism is likely engender the same level of diligence to their work. 5. This becomes part of a cycle as customers notice the attention to detail and workers become aware they are essentially performing. 6. The best illustration of this is professions that require uniforms, such as doctors and police officers, and thus fully embody their public role.

• Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
• Explain your main idea.
• Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
• Keep developing it fully.
• Extend with some long sentences as well.
• Finish this main idea.

1. However, the quality of the work itself is paramount. 2. In recent years, corporations have relaxed dress codes in recognition of this fact. 3. For example, many technology companies in Silicon Valley including Facebook and Google are famous for a more casual approach to attire. 4. This policy begins with the CEOs and executives who eschew traditional suits for jeans, normal shirts, and comfortable shoes. 5. This signals that the success of a company depends more on the output of their work. 6. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot code or contribute meaningfully to a high-achieving team is in fact a hindrance to success. 7. The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement.

• Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
• Explain your new main idea.
• Include specific details and examples.
• Continue developing it…
• as fully as possible!
• Continue the hypothetical example.
• Focus back on the topic.

1. In conclusion, the minor benefits of dress codes for professionalism are outweighed by the recognition of the importance of real work. 2. Companies should therefore strive to uphold values with tangible impact.

• Summarise your main ideas.
• Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here .

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

Many are of the belief that corporations should prioritize quality work over appropriate workplace attire . In my opinion, there are limits to this sentiment ; however , it is largely justified as other areas are more crucial to success .

Those in favor of a strict dress code argue that it fosters professionalism . Appearance is important not only for clients and customers but also workers themselves. An employee who dresses well for work is similar to an actor preparing for a performance . The appearance of professionalism is likely engender the same level of diligence to their work. This becomes part of a cycle as customers notice the attention to detail and workers become aware they are essentially performing . The best illustration of this is professions that require uniforms , such as doctors and police officers, and thus fully embody their public role .

However, the quality of the work itself is paramount . In recent years , corporations have relaxed dress codes in recognition of this fact. For example, many technology companies in Silicon Valley including Facebook and Google are famous for a more casual approach to attire. This policy begins with the CEOs and executives who eschew traditional suits for jeans, normal shirts, and comfortable shoes . This signals that the success of a company depends more on the output of their work. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot code or contribute meaningfully to a high-achieving team is in fact a hindrance to success. The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement .

In conclusion, the minor benefits of dress codes for professionalism are outweighed by the recognition of the importance of real work. Companies should therefore strive to uphold values with tangible impact .

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

are of the belief think

corporations companies

prioritize quality work value more how good the work is

appropriate workplace attire professional clothes for work

limits boundaries

sentiment feeling

however but

largely justified mostly give reason for

more crucial to success more important to achievement

in favor of preferring

strict dress code very limited options to wear to work

argue point out

fosters professionalism creates better work

appearance look on the outside

clients customers

customers clients

dresses well wears professional clothes

similar the same

actor preparing person in a show getting ready

performance starring in a show

engender create

same level of diligence similar amount of professionalism

cycle back and forth circle

notice realize

attention to detail diligence

aware know about

essentially performing basically showing off

best illustration clearest example

require uniforms need clothes

fully embody completely in the role of

public role job in front of others

quality of the work itself how good it is

paramount more important

in recent years the last several years

relaxed calm

recognition knowing about

Silicon Valley place where technology companies are in California

famous for well-known for

casual approach relaxed way

CEOs chief executive officers

executives highly ranking bosses

eschew avoid instead of

traditional suits fancy clothes for work

comfortable shoes sneakers

signals shows

depends more has more to do with

output what is produced

code what must be followed

contribute meaningfully give significance

high-achieving team group that does well normally

in fact actually

hindrance holds back

focus pay attention to

inner qualities characteristics

reflective of mirrors

broader social shift changes within the public

places less value care less about

factors extrinsic to true achievement parts not related to success

minor benefits marginal advantages

outweighed stronger than

strive try hard for

uphold values maintain good principles

tangible impact real effect

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search :

ɑːr ɒv ðə bɪˈliːf   ˌkɔːpəˈreɪʃənz   praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz ˈkwɒlɪti wɜːk   əˈprəʊprɪɪt ˈwɜːkˌpleɪs əˈtaɪə ˈlɪmɪts   ˈsɛntɪmənt haʊˈɛvə ˈlɑːʤli ˈʤʌstɪfaɪd   mɔː ˈkruːʃəl tuː səkˈsɛs ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv   strɪkt drɛs kəʊd   ˈɑːgjuː   ˈfɒstəz prəˈfɛʃnəlɪzm əˈpɪərəns   ˈklaɪənts   ˈkʌstəməz   ˈdrɛsɪz wɛl   ˈsɪmɪlə   ˈæktə prɪˈpeərɪŋ   pəˈfɔːməns ɪnˈʤɛndə   seɪm ˈlɛvl ɒv ˈdɪlɪʤəns   pɑːt   ˈsaɪkl   ˈnəʊtɪs   əˈtɛnʃ(ə)n tuː ˈdiːteɪl   əˈweə   ɪˈsɛnʃəli pəˈfɔːmɪŋ bɛst ˌɪləsˈtreɪʃən   rɪˈkwaɪə ˈjuːnɪfɔːmz ˈfʊli ɪmˈbɒdi   ˈpʌblɪk rəʊl ˈkwɒlɪti ɒv ðə wɜːk ɪtˈsɛlf   ˈpærəmaʊnt ɪn ˈriːsnt jɪəz rɪˈlækst   ˌrɛkəgˈnɪʃən   ˈsɪlɪkən ˈvæli   ˈfeɪməs fɔː   ˈkæʒjʊəl əˈprəʊʧ   siː-iː-əʊz   ɪgˈzɛkjʊtɪvz   ɪsˈʧuː   trəˈdɪʃənl sjuːts   ˈkʌmf(ə)təbl ʃuːz ˈsɪgnlz   dɪˈpɛndz mɔː   ˈaʊtpʊt   kəʊd   kənˈtrɪbju(ː)t ˈmiːnɪŋfʊli   haɪ-əˈʧiːvɪŋ tiːm   ɪn fækt   ˈhɪndrəns   ˈfəʊkəs   ˈɪnə ˈkwɒlɪtiz   rɪˈflɛktɪv ɒv   ˈbrɔːdə ˈsəʊʃəl ʃɪft   ˈpleɪsɪz lɛs ˈvæljuː   ˈfæktəz ɛksˈtrɪnsɪk tuː truː əˈʧiːvmənt ˈmaɪnə ˈbɛnɪfɪts   aʊtˈweɪd   straɪv   ʌpˈhəʊld ˈvæljuːz   ˈtænʤəbl ˈɪmpækt

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

Many a___________________f that c______________s should p_______________________k over a____________________________e . In my opinion, there are l______s to this s_____________t ; h___________r , it is l________________d as other areas are m________________________s .

Those i_____________f a s_________________e a________e that it f_______________________m . A______________e is important not only for c________s and c____________s but also workers themselves. An employee who d____________l for work is s___________r to an a______________g for a p__________________e . The appearance of professionalism is likely e__________r the s__________________________e to their work. This becomes p_____t of a c_______e as customers n________e the a____________________l and workers become a_____e they are e_________________________g . The b___________________n of this is professions that r__________________s , such as doctors and police officers, and thus f_________________y their p_______________e .

However, the q____________________________f is p______________t . I_________________s , corporations have r_________d dress codes in r_____________n of this fact. For example, many technology companies in S_________________y including Facebook and Google are f______________r a more c________________h to attire. This policy begins with the C_____s and e_______________s who e__________w t________________s for jeans, normal shirts, and c_______________________s . This s________s that the success of a company d____________e on the o_______t of their work. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot c____e or c________________________y to a h____________________m is i________t a h____________e to success. The f________s on i____________________s and capabilities is r__________________f an b____________r s______________________t that p_____________________________e on f______________________________________t .

In conclusion, the m________________s of dress codes for professionalism are o____________d by the recognition of the importance of real work. Companies should therefore s_________e to u________________s with t__________________t .

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities :

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0zjRGRYEhk

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice :

https://www.wired.com/1998/04/wearables/

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam :

• Do you like to wear jeans?
• How often do you wear jeans?
• Did you used to wear jeans when you were younger?
• What did you like about jeans?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

The number of people who are interested in and wearing fashionable clothes is increasing.

Is this a positive or negative development?

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Fashion (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

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‘ The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement’.

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Dress Codes – Top 3 Pros and Cons

Pro/Con Arguments | Discussion Questions | Take Action | Sources | More Debates

While the most frequent debate about dress codes may be centered around K-12 schools, dress codes impact just about everyone’s daily life. From the “no shirt, no shoes, no service” signs (which exploded in popularity in the 1960s and 70s in reaction to the rise of hippies) to COVID-19 pandemic mask mandates, employer restrictions on tattoos and hairstyles, and clothing regulations on airlines, dress codes are more prevalent than we might think. [ 1 ] [ 2 ] [ 3 ] [ 4 ] [ 5 ]

While it’s difficult to pinpoint the first dress code–humans started wearing clothes around 170,000 years ago–nearly every culture and country throughout history, formally or informally, have had strictures on what to wear and not to wear. These dress codes are common “cultural signifiers,” reflecting social beliefs and cultural values, most often of the social class dominating the culture.  Such codes have been prevalent in Islamic countries since the founding of the religion in the seventh century, and they continue to cause controversy today—are they appropriate regulations for maintaining piety, community, and public decency, or are they demeaning and oppressive, especially for Islamic women? [ 6 ] [ 7 ] [ 8 ] [ 9 ] [ 10 ]

In the West, people were arrested and imprisoned as early as ​​1565 in England for violating dress codes. The man in question, a servant named Richard Walweyn, was arrested for wearing “a very monsterous and outraygeous great payre of hose” (or trunk hose ) and was imprisoned until he could show he owned other hose “of a decent & lawfull facyon.” Other dress codes of the time reserved expensive garments made of silk, fur, and velvet for nobility only, reinforcing how dress codes have been implemented for purposes of social distinction. Informal dress codes—such as high-fashion clothes with logos and the unofficial “ Midtown Uniform ” worn by men working in finance–underscore how often dress codes have been used to mark and maintain visual distinctions between classes and occupations.  Other dress codes have been enacted overtly to police morality, as with the bans on bobbed hair and flapper dresses of the 1920s. Still other dress codes are intended to spur an atmosphere of inclusiveness and professionalism or specifically to maintain safety in the workplace. [ 6 ] [ 7 ] [ 8 ] [ 11 ] [ 12 ]

Should Dress Codes Be Implemented and Enforced?

Pro 1 Dress codes enforce decorum and a serious, professional atmosphere conducive to success. Research shows that the quality of work improves when performed by individuals who dress up. One study found that participants who wore formal business attire (such as suits) scored higher on cognitive tests, with specific increases in abstract thinking. [ 13 ] [ 14 ] Another study compared negotiations completed by a group who dressed up and another group who dressed casually. The dressed-up group closed more profitable deals. [ 13 ] [ 14 ] Study participants who wore a white lab coat or who were told a white coat was a doctor’s coat made 50% fewer mistakes on high-concentration tasks than people who did not wear a lab coat or who were told the white coat was an artists’ smock. [ 13 ] [ 14 ] High school athletes at St. Louis Park High School in Minnesota agreed that their teams’ dress code days (which include dressing up on game days) positively contributed to team unity. Brendan Donahue, a hockey player, said participating in dress code days better prepared him for games. He stated, “The dress codes add a further feeling of connection, teamwork and bond by wearing the same thing. It acts as a uniform much like our jerseys. Our dress code of dressing up adds a feeling of professionalism to our team and sport.” [ 15 ] Read More

Pro 2 Uniformly mandated dress codes promote safety. From school chemistry labs to manufacturing jobs, some dress code requirements are obviously about safety. Many places require protective glasses, steel-toed boots, fire-resistant jackets, hard hats, or reflective vests, for example. [ 16 ] [ 17 ] [ 18 ] [ 19 ] Other items of clothing may be restricted for less obvious safety reasons. Leggings, for example, are frequently made from synthetic, flammable materials that could react with spilled chemicals and catch fire. Similarly, skin-baring clothing may also be banned around chemicals to prevent burns. [ 19 ] Religious headscarves have been banned in some settings, such as prisons, because wearers could be strangled by the garments in an altercation. [ 16 ] [ 20 ] [ 21 ] Still other dress codes, such as no full-face masks (like Halloween masks) allowed in movie theaters, are intended to help prevent shootings and other violence. [ 22 ] Other clothing restrictions at schools and public places may seem arbitrary but are used to protect against gang activity. Colors, brands, and logos may be gang-affiliated in certain locations. As Lincoln Public Schools in Nebraska explained, “Clothing and accessories associated with gangs and hate groups have the potential to disrupt the learning environment by bringing symbols that represent fear and intimidation of others into classrooms. The identification and prohibition of this clothing help decrease the impact of gangs and hate groups in school. These rules also protect students who are unaware they are wearing clothes with a gang or hate group affiliation.” [ 23 ] Read More

Pro 3 Dress codes promote inclusiveness and a comfortable, cooperative environment while eliminating individualistic attire that can distract from common goals. As Bonneville Academy, a STEM school in Stansbury Park, Utah, explained, “The primary objective of a school dress code is to build constant equality among all the students. When all the students wear the same style of dress, then there will be the same kind of atmosphere across the school campus. This pattern encourages the student to concentrate more on their academic and co-curricular activities… then all the learning becomes more interesting and relevant… Students who are used to dress[ing] properly will be well equipped to evolve into the actual world, especially when they enter into the ever-competitive job market.” [ 24 ] Susan M. Heathfield, a management and organization development consultant, stated, “Employees appreciate guidance about appropriate business attire for your workplace—especially when you specify a rationale for the dress code that your team has selected.” Simply knowing whether suits are required or jeans are appropriate removes guesswork for employees, which leads to a more comfortable work environment. Similarly, dress codes can make a disparate group of people feel like a team—no one is left out or judged differently solely on the basis of the way they dress. [ 25 ] [ 26 ] [ 28 ] Dress codes can also make workplace hierarchies friendlier and more work-conducive. A manager who dresses in suits with ties may intimidate employees who wear branded polo shirts and khakis, preventing effective communication. [ 28 ] Further, dress codes mean employees and customers or clients won’t be distracted by individualistic clothing. For example, a customer of Nebraska State Bank & Trust Co. complained to the bank’s president about a branch employee’s outfit of mismatched tunic and leggings, fringed boots, and large earrings. A customer complaint can not only alienate the customer but also distract employees from their tasks and potentially embarrass or shame the employee whose outfit sparked the complaint. [ 29 ] Read More

Con 1 Dress codes reinforce racist standards of beauty and dress. As the National Women’s Law Center summarized, “Black girls face unique dress and hair code burdens. For example, some schools ban styles associated with Black girls and women, like hair wraps. Black girls also face adults’ stereotyped perceptions that they are more sexually provocative because of their race, and thus more deserving of punishment for a low-cut shirt or short skirt.” [ 30 ] Assistant Superintendent and Principal of Evanston Township High School, Marcus Campbell spoke about changing an outdated dress code: “if certain females were not a certain body type, if they had more curves or they had certain features that were developed, they were dress coded over another young lady who may not have the same features but were wearing the exact same items. Our young women of color were dress coded more than our white girls were. So we found it to be racist, we found it to be sexist, we found it to be antiquated. It was not body positive, and there was just trouble all around with our dress code, and we knew we needed to make a change.” [ 31 ] Banning traditionally Black hairstyles goes back at least to tignon laws passed after emancipation, which required Black women to cover their hair with scarves (tignons) so as to not compete with white women. But these rules continue today as Black girls and women aren’t always allowed to wear their hair in braids, locs, or other styles suitable to Black hair texture at school or work. [ 7 ] [ 32 ] Black male students are often “dress coded” at schools for hoodies, low-rise or baggy pants, and do-rags. Black boys were also more likely to be disciplined (suspended, for example) for a dress code violation than non-Black students. [ 33 ] As Dialectic, a company that counsels workplaces, concluded, “Traditional dress codes work to police certain kinds of bodies. They ensure that employees follow the practices of the dominant culture. Under the guise of professionalism, dress codes tend to punish marginalized groups of employees for refusing to conform.” [ 34 ] Read More

Con 2 Uniformly mandated dress codes are seldom uniformly mandated, often discriminating against women and marginalized groups. The average dress code, whether for a school, workplace, public transportation, or other location, includes more rules for how girls and women should dress than how boys and men should dress. [ 35 ] [ 36 ] Girls in school are frequently “dress-coded” for “too short” shorts and skirts, “too thin” tank top straps, leggings, and other clothing that might be a “distraction to boys.” [ 36 ] Fourth-grade teacher ​​Marci Kutzer said these rules send a clear message to girls: “A boy’s education can be compromised by your gender. Please do what you can to neutralize it.” [ 36 ] The problems follow women into the workplace. A leaked training presentation from Ernst & Young coached women to “look healthy and fit” with a “good haircut, manicured nails, well-cut attire that complements your body type,” but not to wear too-short skirts because “sexuality scrambles the mind.” [ 37 ] Dress codes also frequently exclude people outside of the gender binary and/or force them to adhere to the codes for their sex assigned at birth. [ 35 ] [ 38 ] Journalist Li Zhou explained, “Transgender students have been sent home for wearing clothing different than what’s expected of their legal sex, while others have been excluded from yearbooks. Male students, using traditionally female accessories that fell within the bounds of standard dress code rules, and vice versa, have been nonetheless disciplined for their fashion choices.” Similarly, the Ernst & Young training excluded non-binary and gender non-conforming people. [ 35 ] [ 37 ] Read More

Con 3 Dress codes bolster religious and cultural intolerance. Only in 2019 did US Congress change the 1837 rule that banned headwear of any sort, including religious headwear such as kippahs, hijabs, and turbans. [ 39 ] While the United States protects religious expression and cannot ban religious wear as France has banned burqas and hijabs, American dress codes frequently use acceptability standards to less explicitly ban religious garb. [ 9 ] [ 40 ] [ 41 ] A 5-year-old Native American Texas boy was sent home for a dress code violation because he wore his hair in a long braid according to tribal religious code, which states hair must not be cut except when in mourning. And a Georgia State Representative tried (and failed) to add hijabs, niqabs, and burqas to an existing anti-masking law originally aimed at the Klu Klux Klan (KKK). [ 42 ] [ 43 ] Until sued by Tvli Birdshead, then a high school senior and a member of five Native American tribes, the Latta School District in Oklahoma refused to allow Native American regalia on graduation day, which for Birdshead meant a Chickasaw Nation honor cord, a beaded cap, and a sacred eagle feather. Native American Rights Fund has long battled to protect the cultural and religious rights of Native Americans against discriminatory school dress codes. [ 44 ] [ 45 ] Read More

Discussion Questions

1. Consider the official dress codes in your daily life. How are dress codes implemented in your school, workplace, and/or religious institutions? Do you find these appropriate? Restrictive? Explain your answer(s).

2. Consider the unofficial dress codes in your life. What do your friends think is acceptable for various occasions? What do you wear when visiting a place of worship or to grandma’s house for a special dinner? How do you dress differently when hanging around with friends than when going on a date? Do you find these formal and informal codes appropriate or restrictive? Explain your answer(s).

3. If you have to choose one, would you prefer a uniform policy for school and work, just a dress code, or neither? Explain your answer.

Take Action

1. Consider the pros of dress codes with Bonneville Academy.

2. Analyze students’ rights about school dress codes with the ACLU .

3. Examine the history of rules and laws about clothing and the contemporary repercussions with law professor Richard Thompson Ford.

4. Consider how you felt about the issue before reading this article. After reading the pros and cons on this topic, has your thinking changed? If so, how? List two to three ways. If your thoughts have not changed, list two to three ways your better understanding of the “other side of the issue” now helps you better argue your position.

5. Push for the position and policies you support by writing US national senators and representatives .

More Social Debate Topics

1. Should Students Have to Wear School Uniforms? – Proponents say uniforms may increase student safety. Opponents say uniforms restrict expression.

2. Is Cancel Culture (or “Callout Culture”) Good for Society? – Proponents say cancel culture allows people to seek accountability. Opponents say it amounts to online bullying.

3. Are Social Media Sites Good for Our Society? – Proponents say social media spreads information faster than any other media. Opponents say it enables the spread of unreliable information.

ProCon/Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. 325 N. LaSalle Street, Suite 200 Chicago, Illinois 60654 USA

Natalie Leppard Managing Editor [email protected]

© 2023 Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc. All rights reserved

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99 Dress Code Essay Topics & Examples

Welcome to our list of topic ideas! Here, you will find dress code research questions, titles for dress code essays, and bonus samples. Explore the importance of school uniform, arguments for and against it, and much more with our dress code argumentative essay topics!

🔝 Top 10 Dress Code Titles for Essays

🏆 best dress code topic ideas & essay examples, ⭐ good research topics about dress code, 👍 simple & easy dress code essay titles, ❓ dress code research questions, ✅ most interesting titles for dress code essays.

• How to Dress for Special Events
• Dress Codes and Gender Equality
• Dress Codes in Religious Institutions
• Uniforms in the Hospitality Industry
• Workplace Diversity through Traditional Attire
• Trends in Entertainment Industry Dress Codes
• Individual Expression in Workplace Dress Code
• Impact of School Dress Codes on Student Behavior
• Brand Representation through Sports Dress Codes
• Where Is the Line between Formal and Casual Attire?
• Dubai’s Food, Dress Code and Culture Religion is an important in aspect in Dubai because it influences the lifestyle of the people and forms the foundation of their culture.
• School Dress Codes and Self-Expression Being urged to wear only approved clothes, students are deprived of an opportunity to understand the differences between social groups and the unique problems of their social class.
• A Support for Dress Code Policy Dress codes issues in America have been serious to an extent that students have historically taken school administration to courts because of infringing on individual free expression contained in the 1st and 14th amendments.
• Dress Code and Modesty in the Society In modern cultures, dressing controls and conveys a special message to the society. Dress code and modesty in the society should conform to the moral rules regardless of a person’s religion or culture.
• Workplace Dress Code Rules and Their Failure As it has been mentioned before, it seems to me that a company must offer a certain dress code or, at least, certain boundaries in terms of clothes, for its employees.
• A Dress Code Policy as a Discriminatory Practice A dress code is an organizational policy of a school, university, company, or community organization that prescribes prohibitions and rules for the wearing of clothing.
• Organizational Manual for Dress Code: Attire and Grooming The figure below illustrates the contents of this manual: The organization will create an environment to help the workers and other stakeholders optimize their productivity. However, the employees will still be expected to groom in […]
• Legal Issue: A Working Dress Code The manager, in turn, replied that heels are part of the dress code that complements the image of the waitresses and attracts customers.
• Altman Corporation’s Dress Code Policy Memorandum In line with the recent dress code policies developed by the communication manager, the following previews and revisions have been made for the effective implementation of the policies.
• Altman Corporation Dress Code Policy They are civilian ware and not professional. Underwear should not be visible above the waistline of the clothing.
• Consultant to an Organization: Dress Codes The reason for changing a dress code policy is to ensure that employees dress appropriately to the work place. However, not all employees respond positively to a change in the dress code.
• Dress Code and Social Norm Violations In my opinion, this norm is not appropriate in the modern world due to several reasons: first, people are free to make decisions and consider their interests; second, fashion is a current issue that cannot […]
• Medical Assisting Vocational School: Dress Code First and most obvious, the establishment of the standards in accordance with which the dress code will be altered will have to be considered.
• Dress Code Implementation Into the NBA
• Religious Beliefs and Dress Code Policies in the Workplace
• The Dress Code and Its Effect on the Safety of Students at School
• Arab Women Freedom and the Dress Code
• Restrictions in Business Casual Dress Code for Managers
• Effectiveness of Student Dress Code in American Schools
• Casual Dress Code vs. Business Casual Dress Code
• Increased School Safety and the Dress Code Policy
• School Uniform: Improving the Dress Code
• Dress Code Dilemma: School Education Clothing
• Feminism and the School Dress Code for Girls
• Body Piercing, Tattooing, and the Public School Dress Code
• Discriminatory Dress Codes in Male-Dominated Industries
• Applying the Dress Code Policy
• Business Casual Dress Code: Formal or Informal
• Dress Code Violation and Discrimination
• Jesuit Dress Code and Hair Restrictions
• Business Casual Dress Code of the Workplace
• Uniform and Dress Code Policies: To Provide a Safe and Orderly Environment
• The Debate Around the Dress Code in Schools
• How Dress Code Takes Meaning and Life Out of Clothes
• Islamic Dress Code and Its Restrictions
• Dress Code for Expats Who Visit Qatar
• Understanding Company Dress Code: Appropriate Work Attire
• Arguments for Reversing the Dress Code for High School
• School Dress Code and Limit Students Freedom of Express
• Nursing Uniforms: Why There Should Be a Mandatory Dress Code for Nurses
• Establishing Employee Dress Code: Suit up or Ship Out
• Dress Code and Uniforms Code: What Is the Difference in Restrictions?
• What Not to Wear: Avoiding Dress Code Discrimination
• Dress Code for Public Schools: Pros and Cons
• Enforcing the Dress Code Policy for Nurses
• Arguments for and Against School Dress Codes
• Dress Code Arguments for High School
• Anti Dress Code Arguments for Public Schools
• Wearing Dress Code for Female Workplace
• Dress Code Policies for Public Schools: Teachers and Students
• Sexual Harassment, Dress Code, and Attendance Policy
• Business Dress Code and Image of the Company
• School Uniforms, Dress Codes, and Free Expression
• Should School Dress Code Be Enforced?
• Why Should Dress Code Not Be Enforced?
• What Does the Dress Code Be?
• How Dress Code Takes Meaning and Life Out of Clothes?
• Does Dress Code Prevent Certain Events?
• Does Your Dress Code Address Flip Flop?
• What Are Some Examples of Dress Codes?
• What Is Called the Dress Code?
• What Are the Four Types of Dress Codes?
• What Are the Three Levels of Dress Codes?
• Is It Against the Dress Code to Not Wear a Bra?
• Why Is a Dress Code Necessary?
• What Is a Nice Casual Dress Code?
• What Are the Dress Codes for Work?
• What Is the Formal, Casual Dress Code?
• What Is a Formal Dress Code for Ladies?
• What Is the Most Formal Dress Code?
• What Is the Fanciest Dress Code?
• All Schools Should Have a Student Dress Code?
• How Arab Women’s Freedom Enforced the Dress Code?
• What Is the Difference Between a Casual Dress Code and Business Casual Dress Code?
• What Is Dress Code for Expats Who Visit Qatar?
• Which Is Dress Code for Teachers in Public Schools?
• What Are the Pros and Cons of the Dress Code?
• What Is the Connection Between Dress Code Violation and Discrimination?
• Why Should There Be a Mandatory Dress Code for Nurses?
• The Role of Dress Code in Impression Management
• Do School Uniforms Restrict Students’ Self-Expression?
• How Dress Code Correlates with Gender Identity
• The Link Between Dress Code and Consumerism
• Ways to Avoid Cultural Appropriation in Dress Code
• Body Shaming and Size Inclusivity in Dress Codes
• Dress Code Policies and Their Effect on Employee Morale and Productivity
• How Workplace Fashion Reflects and Shapes Societal Perceptions
• From Traditional Attire to Contemporary Fashion: The Evolution of Dress Codes
• Ways to Balance Discipline and Personal Expression at School
• Personal Ethics Titles
• Cultural Identity Research Topics
• Deontology Questions
• Pedagogy Topics
• Sexism Essay Ideas
• Wellness Essay Topics
• Cross-Cultural Management Research Topics
• Safety Essay Ideas
• Chicago (A-D)
• Chicago (N-B)

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IvyPanda . "99 Dress Code Essay Topics & Examples." October 26, 2023. https://ivypanda.com/essays/topic/dress-code-essay-topics/.

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Home / Essay Samples / Business / HR Management / Dress Code

Dress Code Essay Examples

The case for school uniforms.

The debate over school uniforms has been ongoing for years, with proponents and opponents presenting their arguments on whether uniforms should be a requirement in educational institutions. In this essay, we will make a persuasive case for the implementation of school uniforms by examining the...

The Battle Over School Dress Codes: a Never-ending Debate

Throughout the years, school dress codes have been a contentious topic among students, parents, and educators. The debate over what students should and shouldn't be allowed to wear in schools has sparked numerous discussions and controversies. This essay aims to explore the different aspects of...

The Dress Code Debate in the Workplace

Workplace attire has been a subject of debate for years, sparking discussions about professionalism, comfort, and personal expression. This argumentative essay delves into the various facets of dress code in the workplace. While some argue that dress codes are essential for maintaining a professional environment,...

The Dress Code Debate in Educational Institutions

The issue of dress codes in educational institutions has been a topic of debate for many years. While proponents argue that dress codes promote discipline, create a conducive learning environment, and teach students about professionalism, opponents claim that they infringe on students' freedom of expression,...

It’s My Body, not Yours: Dress Code Issues

The school’s sexist dress code has an impact on young women today, it sets a burden at such a young age in which affects the way they think and how they feel about their body. Men, however, are not disciplined at all and they do...

Clothing Standards: Benefits of Dress Code in School

Clothing standard is a set of rules to make it simple for any people to wear to work or school. It can likewise assist associations with being certain workers are introducing themselves well in gatherings and communications. Clothing standard is something other than wearing a...

The Significance of the Dress Code at the Workplace

There is an incentive of how generally we dress on different occasions. How you dress at work portrays how you will be perceived and how well your company is organized. It, not all cloth we wear to the workplace. Some rules and regulations guide the...

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