What is an appropriate dress code for the workplace?
This often varies from company to company and depends on your business environment and organizational culture. While many companies do not require their staff to wear formal business attire, employees are expected to look presentable at all times.
Can you get fired for breaking the dress code?
Yes. Breaking a company's dress code can lead to termination.
Can an employer change the dress code?
Yes. The employer typically sets out the dress code, and can, therefore, make reasonable changes as needed.
What are the four types of dress codes for the workplace?
- Business formal.
- Business professional.
- Business casual.
- Casual.
What should you not wear to the office?
Different companies have varying dress codes that allow or ban certain items of clothing. Generally speaking, these items are considered inappropriate:
- Flip flops.
- Non-natural hair colors.
- Facial piercings.
- Backless tops.
- Short skirts or dresses.
- Short shorts.
- Yoga pants.
Why do employers have dress codes?
Dress code policies reinforce a positive and professional image of the company, especially when employees interact with clients, prospects, or business partners on a regular basis. A company's employee handbook will typically contain the rules of the dress code.
Can an employer force you to cover tattoos?
Yes. Some employers require employees to cover visible tattoos when working with customers.
Can employers make you shave?
Yes. If the company's dress code calls for having no facial hair, an employer can request that an employee shaves.
Can you be fired for not wearing a bra?
This depends on the company's dress code and what they deem appropriate attire for the workplace.
Can your employer force you to wear makeup?
Yes. If the company's dress code requires that employees wear make-up, not doing so would be a breach of contract.
Are leggings appropriate for work?
Some companies may allow leggings, and others may not. Generally, leggings are not considered appropriate office attire.
Are jeans okay for business casual dress?
Dark jeans may be acceptable in some cases, but this may depend on the employer. Casual jeans or acid-washed colors are never acceptable.
What are examples of business casual attire?
This may include khaki or cotton pants shorts or skirts with a hem past the knee. Long-sleeved button-down shirts, collared polo/knit shirts, sweaters, and cardigans. Pants and shirts should be neatly pressed. Shoes should be relaxed but nice, no tennis shoes or sandals.
What is casual dress code?
Relaxed, but tasteful. Jeans and T-shirts are acceptable but should be in clean and neat condition, without holes, stains, etc.
What is smart casual dress code?
An example of smart casual would be a pair of slacks or a nice pair of jeans with a button-up shirt and leather shoes. This dress code typically excludes shorts, worn jeans, sandals, and T-shirts.
What is business dress code?
For men, this typically means a shirt, tie, jacket, and dress shoes. For women, a skirt or pants suit with closed-toe heels. All clothing should be clean and pressed.
Are dress codes legal?
Dress codes are legal as long as they do not cause employees to dress in demeaning or provocative ways. If an employer has a dress code, it must be applied fairly to all employees.
What is a dress code policy memo?
Read and download our free dress code policy template above.
