Post on 21-May-2017
Fashion in the Workplace 1
Running head: FASHION IN THE WORKPLACE
Spring 2014
Fashion in the Workplace: Assignment Two
Lavernia V. Boyd
University of North Carolina Charlotte
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
Background and Introduction
Yes, I am one of those people. I notice what everyone is wearing and quickly formulate
an opinion. Wrong, perhaps but first impressions can mean the difference between a positive or
negative experience. This is the case in everyday life. Think about it for a moment we all
formulate opinions based on dress. For example, you go into a hospital one doctor has on scrubs,
a stethoscope around his neck and a clipboard in hand. The other doctor is wearing headphones
and a football jersey. They both graduated from John Hopkins University. Who do you want to
treat you and why? We both know it is the doctor who looks like a doctor and it is because
perception is everything. Based on his attire he would seem to be the more professional of the
two. This topic is of personal interest because I love fashion but as i dug deeper I realize there is
a disconnection between what people think is workplace appropriate and what really is
workplace appropriate. As well as, the importance it plays in their careers and how people view
you based on dress. On a weekly basis I feel like I’m in two figured worlds, the government
center where I work and UNCC campus where I learn. At work, people for the most part adhere
to the dress code of business casual. On campus it is pretty much come as you like just be
present. There is no standard for dress and I wonder if that is a cause for the struggle with the
transition from college to work. For those already in the workplace struggling I believe it to be
some apathy towards the dress code or to conforming to the system and structure. The mindset of
is if no one is going to enforce it why should I do it? The issue may seem trivial it is after all just
clothes. However, when what you are wearing can impact your income or the opinions of those
you need to see you as competent then it takes on another level of importance. Unfortunately, the
way people perceive things is the way you must navigate your professional life. So employers
and customers perceive people who dress professional are professional, true, not necessarily but
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
you have to work within that thinking in order to be successfully. My goal was to explore the
issues of perception with regards dress code in the workplace. I want to pay special attention to
face value judgments, how conforming to your organizations dress code is critical for success
and finally what exactly is business casual or business professional attire.
Literature Review
Term: Business Casual – A dress down version of traditional business dress (i.e. suit and tie).
Business casual for men means no tie or jacket is necessary however, the requirement is neatly
press slacks and shirt with polished shoes, a jacket is favorable. For women it can be a variety of
items dresses, slacks, skirts, blouses and polished shoes.
Business Casual
What is business casual? The biggest fashion problem in the workplace is truly understanding
the concept of “business casual.” For men it can mean anything from a sports coat with or
without a tie to pleated cotton slacks with a collared shirt, short sleeve polo shirt and loafers. For
women pant suits, dresses, suits and coordinated shirt and slack ensembles (“Confusion reigns
in”, 2003). The term of business casual can go even further, being so detailed as color, texture
and patterns of clothing. Pastels large floral prints and bright colors are not viewed as favorably
as neutrals colors such as; beige, taupe and brown (Chaney & Martin, 2007, p22). In the banking
industry and heavy client based companies, “there is a fine line between looking professional,
relating to their clients and keeping employee morale high”, the solution is business casual dress
(Entzminger, 2005). Society sees the need to prepare perspective employees on the appropriate
dress in business. There are various programs that assist low-income job seekers to define
“business casual” dress. Surveying a group of low-income job seekers determined that they knew
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
what traditional business dress was (suit and tie) but had problems when confronted with the idea
of business casual (Saiki, 2013). Since business casual is a topic that is confusing among
generational lines a helpful way to convey the standards for business casual and its defined
meaning is to put the dress code in writing, this way employees’ have a guideline to follow
(Entzminger, 2005). In the actual workplace, business casual is important you will find
management level employees dress in that manner. It is an expected behavior both Wanda and
Olaf in the workplace observation were always dressed according to the standards of their
workplace (Boyd, 2014).
Changing Times
Why Business Casual? The short answer is that the market place demands that style of dress. It is
recession proof dress. Recently, employers have noticed the trend of employees’ dressing better
to keep their jobs. When observing a conference from one year to the next, the once slouchy
dressed attendees were now dressed up with a suit and tie. “The obsession with creativity at work
is this ludicrous idea that if you were dressing in a more relaxed way you would have better ideas
(Montagne, 2009). Employees know that they are being watched and dress and grooming is
noticed. Dressing professionally is essential not only in getting the job but keeping it as well.
The notion of moving away from “Casual Friday” is also on the table. “Either Friday is a
workday or it isn’t” (Montagne, 2009). While it may not seem possible, in observation one on
Friday when a relaxed style of dress is acceptable, Wanda was still dress in a ‘business casual”
manner (Boyd, 2014). Another reason is the decline of what was called the dot.com era. The
influx of internet start-ups allowed workers to stay at home and not have to dress unless meeting
with perspective clients. With the return to the office the business expectation is “business
casual” (Entzminger, 2005). Companies in the fortune 500 category want to take it a step further
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
56% of them maintain a business attire policy which drops the casual and means suit and tie for
men and suit or dress for woman. Their reasoning executives feel this promotes a better image
and productivity (Gardyn & Fetto, 2002). Research has outlined the business professional dress
which is higher end clothing, and is a lot more restrictive. Business professional dress suggests
that employees stick to certain color suits such as; dark blue and gray keeping in line with a more
classic traditional style (Chaney & Martin, 2007).
Company and Employee Image
Society defines the meaning of appearance through clothing, accessories, grooming and
hairstyles all which communicate a powerful message. Employees are the frontline of what
clients see and based on this a company can have a positive or negative impression in the minds
of their clients. It is also determined that when employees are dressed professional they feel
professional and are more productive. A company lost a client after they made an office visit, the
CEO of the client company mentioned that the final decision came down to the fact that the
competitors’ employees dressed and acted more professional and had a business manner (Chaney
& Martin, 2007). Dress matters, customers feel that when the employee is dressed well the
service will be equal and the reverse is true, when dress inappropriate service would be
substandard. Additionally, researchers have found that people form impressions of another
individual based on the clothing worn by the individual (Yurchisin & Watchraveringkan, 2011).
Human Resource professionals believe that their role is to help companies realize that
organizational culture is impacted by workplace attire and therefore, they should assist in
determining the dress code. Organizations should look to hire individuals that can comfortably
be brought into the company dress code (Peluchette and Karl, 2007). So what do the numbers
say? “Coming across professional is very important” (Entzminger, 2005). According to the
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
“American Industry Dress Code Survey” comprised of senior level executives at companies
which had an annual revenue of over $500 million, this is how the senior executives felt about
employees dress in professional attire such as;
a. Project a better image 70%
b. Are more likely to be noticed 68%
c. Tend to command more respect 60%
d. Feel more confident 49%
e. Appear more organized 46%
f. Are more likely to get promoted 22% (Gardyn & Fetto, 2002)
Overall, companies are looking for individuals that will boost company image.
Conformity
Success and advancement are two words you want in your professional career. In the workplace
for that to happen you must conform. Using the example of TV show Ugly Betty and the main
character Betty Suarez, researchers try to show that “conformity is not a bad word” (Burgess-
Wilkerson, & Thomas, 2009). Many of the students when viewing the episode felt she was
competent and her wardrobe was an extension of Betty’s individuality. Moreover, they felt that
the way she dressed should not affect her chance at promotions or the way management viewed
her but her ability (Burgess-Wilkerson, & Thomas, 2009). Is conformity necessary to succeed?
Researcher Kiddie would dis-agree, back in 1980 he was new to the job market and started his
hunt for his first job. He had two choices IBM and Bell Labs he choose the latter due to the
relaxed dress code. He continues by encouraging his business students to determine if the
business they are considering matched their preferences for business attire. Searching for clues
by browsing the company’s website, reviewing their annual report, anything that would provide
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
a clue as to the dress code and the company’s interpretation of such code (Kiddie, 2009).
Dressing appropriate for work “is still important for workers who want to make a good
impression and advance their careers” (“Confusion reigns in”, 2003). Conforming to the dress
code of your workplace is the expectation. When Matt Lauer cohost of The Today Show was
interviewed on the Larry King Live, Larry asked Matt whether he had changed is attire since
being in his current position Matt stated that he now wears a suit every day because he never
knows when he will be called upon to interview someone of high rank and that a suit gives him
the visual credibility he needs (Chaney & Martin, 2007).
Entering the Conversation
As I researched fashion in the workplace I realized there needs to be a clear cut plan on
how employers not only establish a proper standard but help employees understand the
importance. With all the research and information the standard is confusing. Why is business
appropriate dress so important? Can’t you work in jeans and sneakers and be as productive as
you would wearing a suit? Of course, but the real question is will you be viewed the same way. I
propose a training class that would take attendees through a fashion in the workplace boot-camp.
It will help them clearly distinguish between what is appropriate and why. I see the class having
various breakout sessions and topics such as; dressing for your workplace, perception vs reality
and conformity this would be intended to reach the younger generation, a guest speaker or two
would also be helpful. The guest speakers should include current professionals in the workplace
perhaps a Human Resource representative and a Senior Executive of a notable firm. Those new
to the workforce seem to struggle with workplace appropriate; it could be because of four years
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of jeans and sneakers to class or working in retail jobs that require uniforms. Whatever the
reason for their struggles, a section needs to be dedicated to change the mindset.
Dressing for your Workplace
This section would consist of defining what the dress code policy is whether it is business
casual* or business professional#. Outlining in full detail that business casual for men are
pressed slacks, a collared shirt, a belt in good condition and polished shoes. For women it is any
assortment of skirts (not too tight), blouses, dresses, pumps or flats (no stocking required), slacks
and cardigans. On the other hand if the dress code is formal then for men it is suits in traditional
colors (navy, black, grey and brown or beige), ties and polished shoes. For women working
under a business professional policy it means a suit and blouse or pantsuit but either requires you
to wear stockings and pumps NO stilettoes. I would even prepare them further, what if the job
they want does not have a dress code policy in writing. There are two solutions if in doubt err on
the side of conservative or you can mirror the top level executives. To see if they have the
concept of what both styles of dress mean I would introduce my first breakout session at this
point
Breakout Session
In this session I would include various clothing for men and woman. I would then request
some volunteers to make a complete outfit for business casual and business professional discuss
why they think each is appropriate. Which style of dress they prefer and why? At this point I
would incorporate the research work of Kiddie who explained why these trends are essential and
how to determine if the company they are considering matches their preferences for business
attire. He also provide various recommendations to students such as; browse the company’s
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
website, find the company’s annual report, as to whether the company has a dress code if they
respond business-casual dig deeper to find out their interpretation of the policy and observe other
employees during the interview process (Kiddie, 2009). Finally, make adjustments to each outfit
as needed and move on to the next topic.
Perception vs Reality
I have heard people say “don’t dress for the job you have dress for the job you want”. I
hate that saying because what does it really mean? If I work in the mailroom and I want to move
into management should I wear a suit to deliver the mail? What that statement really means is
that it is all about perception. The reality is in most companies what you wear especially if
behind the scene does not affect what you do or how you do it however, the perception will be
that you don’t care about your appearance and as an extension your work. If you want to
advance in a company you should be adorned in the dress code policy. That statement holds
more weight if you work with the public. Let’s take a bank teller for example, do you want to
come in the bank and your teller has on a hoodie or a slogan T-shirt? No, but neither effects their
ability to count money or take deposits. Employers and customers perceive professionalism
through dress initially, so in order to have a professional image you must dress in a professional
manner. Think about dress in others areas, when you get dressed up to go out or you have on that
favorite outfit, how does it make you feel? Isn’t there an air of confidence, the same is true of
the workplace. Both males and females have indicated that the appropriateness of their clothing
affected the quality of their performance and their mood in the workplace. (Peluchette & Karl,
2007). This would be a good time for another breakout session with a guest speaker.
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
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Guest Speaker –Senior Executive of a Notable Firm
The speaker will discuss what their impressions are of inappropriate dressed employees.
How this can negatively affect their career and chances for advancement. When it comes time for
someone to represent their company what are some of the factors that would disqualify an
employee from being selected. They could also discuss which dress code is required at their
place of business and why that decision was made.
Perception vs Reality Part II
Next, from the comments of our guest speaker this lets employees know they are being
watched and whether a dress code policy is written or not it goes to show there is an expectation.
Research was done regarding hand-washing that will drive home the point about perception and
reality. Bear with me I know it may seem like a stretch but there is a point to be made. The
research was conducted in two phases, one was a written survey and the second phase was actual
observation and signage. When the students took the written survey woman 99% and men 93%
stated they washed their hands. However, when they observed the hand-washing behavior of
students 73% of women and 58% actually washed their hands with soap however, when a sign
was put in a prominent place the number of men who washed their hands increased (Nichols,
2014). So my point is this the reality is everyone does not wash their hands but the perception is
that we know we should, because otherwise you are viewed in a negative light (i.e. nasty or
unclean). The reality is you don’t have to dress according to dress code to work the perception is
that you do in order to advance.
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
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Conformity
I want to be an individual. My clothes make a statement about my personality. This is America
right? How many agree with these statements? They are all true but when it comes to the
workplace you are not an individual in the collective sense you are an employee and lumped into
a group with your co-workers. Employers expect you to follow the standards for all employees.
Conforming to the dress code of your workplace is the expectation. When Matt Lauer co-host of
The Today Show was interviewed on the Larry King Live, Larry asked Matt whether he had
changed his attire since being in his current position Matt stated that he now wears a suit every
day because he never knows when he will be called upon to interview someone of high rank and
that a suit gives him the visual credibility he needs (Chaney & Martin, 2007).
I love the example of TV character Betty Suarez one she appeals to the younger
generation because she is the poster child of non-conformity. Her character shows how not
conforming affects ones chances of promotion or being taken seriously. Students as part of
research were asked to watch an episode of Ugly Betty and then a lively discussion began on
conforming to workplace appropriate dress. Some of the comments included “Although she
would be more successful, her dress should have nothing to do with her ability,” (Burgess-
Wilkerson, & Thomas, 2009). While I have previously established that dress and ability are
separate, conforming demonstrates you are willing to play within the rules. Everyone likes when
you play within the rules especially management. To show your willingness to conform starts
right from the onset. This is why dressing appropriately for an interview speaks volumes. It says
to your potential employer I know what is expected and I’m willing to play within the rules. At
this point I would add the final breakout session our next guest speaker a Human Resource
professional.
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women
Guest Speaker –Human Resource Professional
Talking points for the HR professional would be based off of the following questions:
1. How much does dress factors in on the interview process?
2. Two identical candidates from an experience standpoint what determines the
selection?
3. What is their role in helping their organization develop the dress code policy
4. What are some of the repercussions of not following the dress code?
Why Should You Care?
Well let’s consider what happens if you don’t care. If you show up for an interview
dressed unprofessional what are the chances of getting a job offer? In today’s market with the
level of competition and as we slowly move out of the recession good jobs are at a premium.
You need something to get your foot in the door and being well dressed is a start. Don’t miss
understand you need to have some skills to back the visual presentation but first impressions are
everything. Take it a step further you get the job anyway, there is a promotion available at your
place of employment. Who do you think they will look to promote? If you and another employee
have a similar skill set what will cause your name to get mentioned over another, yes it is dress
and grooming. So dressing appropriate for work has a direct impact on your earning potential
within your company. Conformity, sounds like such a bad word in our society. Everyone wants
to be recognized as an individual, however in the workplace you conform to dress and stand out
as an individual through your talents. Recently, employers have noticed the trend of employees’
dressing better to keep their jobs. When observing a conference from one year to the next, the
once slouchy dressed attendees were now dressed up with a suit and tie. (Montagne, 2009). This
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
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means your competition realizes the importance of professional dress or business casual at work.
To get to the next level and be ready for opportunity conformity is necessary. Consider all the
research we reviewed, employers are;
1. Expecting employees to be in compliance with the dress code policy.
2. They believe that you are more productive when dressed professional.
3. Conscience that their customers feel you are more capable when dress professional.
4. Aware that you are a direct reflection of the organization and represent them.
So you have to ask yourself how important is success in the workplace to me? Once you answer
that question you will make sure you are taking the necessary steps to be workplace appropriate.
Overall, I found that business casual and professional dress is highly important to major
companies. Most companies have a dress code whether it is in writing or an unspoken there is an
expectation of proper dress in the workplace. They expect people to come through the door
knowing that and if you don’t they will move on to the next candidate. Conforming is necessary
to make advancement and there is a true definition for business casual which looks different for
the genders. My hope is that this training session enlightens the workforce as to what fashion in
the workplace should look like and how it plays a significant role in their future career goals.
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*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women
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Figure No.1 Business Casual for Men
Figure No. 2 Business Casual for Women
Figure No. 3 Business Professional for Women
Figure No. 4. Business Professional for Men
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References
Boyd, L., (2014) Assignment One, Fashion in the Workplace, English 1102
Burgess – Wilkerson, B., & Thomas, J. (2009). Lessons from ugly betty: business attire as a
conformity strategy. Business Communication Quarterly, 72(3), 365-368.
Chaney, L., & Martin, J. (2007). Business dress and grooming. In The Essential Guide to
Business Etiquette (pp. 13-24). Westport, CT: Praeger.
Confusion reigns in workplace fashion. (2003, May). USA Today Magazine, 131(2696), 6.
Entzminger, A. (2005). Briefing: dress down or up? banking dress codes continue to
evolve. ABA Banking Journal, 97(10), 7.
Gardyn, R., & Fetto, J. (2002) Dress code American Demographics, 24(5), 13.
Kiddie, T. (2009). Recent trends in business casual attire and their effects on student job
seekers Business Communication Quarterly, 72(3), 350-354.
doi:10.1177/1080569909340681.
Montagne, R. (Narrator). (2009, June 24). Workers dressing better to hold on to jobs [Radio
broadcast episode]. In M. Sikka (Producer), Morning Edition. Washington DC: National
Public Radio.
Nichols, A. (2014) Actual vs. Reported Behavior Increasing Handwashing in Public
Restrooms. Swiss Journal of Psychology, 73(1), 41-46 doi:10.1024/1421-0185/a000119
Peluchette, J., & Karl, K. (2007). The impact of workplace attire on employee
self-perceptions. Human Resources Development Quarterly, 18(3), 345-357. doi:
10.1002/hrdg.1208
Saiki, D. (2013). Identification of workplace dress by low-income job seekers. Journal of
Employment Counseling, 50(2), 50-57. doi:10.1002/j.2161-1920.2013.00024.x
Yan, R., Yurchisin, J., & Watchravesringkan, K. (2011). Does formality matter? effects of
employee clothing formality on consumers' service quality expectations and store image
perceptions. International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 39(5), 346-362.
doi: 101109/09590551111130775
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