A dress code is a set of rules concerning the appropriate outfits for social, professional, or religious occasions. Even though dress code is most common in professional settings, there are other events in which dress code is important. The rules can be clearly specified and written, or they may be more conventional. In the past, dress codes were very strict and were used to distinguish the elites from the working class. Now, we are free to wear what we want, but there are still important conventions to follow, especially in the professional setting.
A company’s dress code is a set of rules about how employees should dress. It is supposed to standardize the appearance of employees and create a specific image of the company. People care about appearance and a well dressed worked creates a better image of a company. Dress codes vary based on the type of business. A more creative company, like an advertising firm, would have a more relaxed dress code than a company where building authority is important, like a bank. Most dress codes cover the following things:
- Personal hygiene
- Outfit type (formal, casual, or somewhere inbetween)
- Personal appearance (hair, makeup, accessories)
- Jewelry
- Tattoos
Wearing uniforms can make dress codes less necessary. Uniforms can also help employees stand out. While some people wear full uniforms, like police officers, others can wear partial uniforms, like an apron.
If there are dress code rules, companies can hold casual days where employees are allowed to wear what they want. In most places, this happens on Fridays. It is important to remind employees that casual day does not mean whatever and outfits should still be appropriate for a work setting.
