Readers Respond: Should Organizations Have Dress Codes?

Should organizations have dress codes? That's a contentious question these days. On the one hand, employees appreciate knowing what their organization considers appropriate work attire. On the other, employees believe that they are adults and capable of dressing appropriately for work without dress codes. Employers institute dress codes, usually, because employee attire is a significant problem for customers, coworkers, or the company's professional image.

Well

My daughter goes to the middle school and they have a strict dress code which I get in, all but it's too strict. She can't have any strap showing what so ever and has to have her pants cover her knees. This is PUBLIC school and in a non-ghetto area. I understand there should be a dress code but I think a guideline is more helpful to get these kids to realize who they really are.

—Guest No Way

Absolutely No!

A dress does not define you, you define your dress. Wearing professional dress does not make you a professional. Your qualities and capabilities made you what you are right now, not your dress. Such kind of silly rules not only force you to dress in a stereotypical way but also make you an unanimated object. You live your whole life wearing same kind of clothes and die without relishing the importance of change and colours.

—Guest chris

A dress code is a start, but...

I'm in the HR department of a casual office/call center. We have a dress code that was developed about 10 years ago and it is still about 95% relevant today...new fashion trends aren't included, so we deal with those on a case-by-case basis. Though we do have a dress code, which employees sign upon receipt, we still have people who push the limits every day and their managers seem oblivious. A policy not enforced is simply a joke. If you are going to take the time to develop a dress code (or any policy) be sure that you are willing to stand behind it and make your managers enforce it. Our policy was developed by upper management, and it seems that they have no desire to ask their managers to enforce it (or several other policies). HR can only go so far, and I'm not willing to spend half my day as the fashion police.

—Guest TDLR

Yes-No

When a dress code is put in place it should be for everyone in the office regardless of department or title. Now if a company hires "youngsters" they need to instill the dress code from the get go, not later down the line. For instance - the company I work for decided to put a dress code in place where high heels can't be higher than 3", wedges must have a strap on the back of the shoe, all shoes must cover 50% of the foot. When did DRESS capris be long enough to reach the ankle? Dresses must be no shorter than 3" above the knee and if they are, you must have leggings that also must go to the ankle. Mind you we work in a call center and have no contact with the outside world. Every so often, you will find a manager who decides to break out with a ruler and start measuring the inches on a particular item. My thing is, if a company is going to have to go to that extent with a ruler, then go on a "witch-hunt" everyday, til everyone gets the idea on what the dress code is. Rather waiting to pick and choose who is not up to par.

—Liz.0325

Absolutely Yes

yes, I do think it is mandatory for any corporate Organisation to have a meaningful and polite dress code. The dress code should be very simple. And done in a proper way without causing any sexual intimidation and harrassment in the Office. The dressing must be corporate and meaningful in preaching the Organisational mission's Gospel.

—Guest Anjorin Oladapo

Dress codes

I think that there does have to be a guideline. Not having a policy in place opens you up to increased instances of sexual harassment, offensive imagery/language on clothing complaints and a general look of disarray to the staff. If you do not work with the public you can certainly have a more casual dress code however a business should put its best foot forward and having your employees dressing in a similar fashion (though not exactly the same) gives an outward appearance of organization. Having everyone look professional, however, is only part of the battle. I agree that professional attitudes and sincerity are also necessary. In addition, I am not advocating all ladies wear pumps and a business suit however a banning such items as tee shirts, jeans, sneakers and low cut tops/short dresses and skirts can only improve your office appearance and morale

—Guest Jennie

Yes to Dress Codes

They should because when you're serving/representing your company, you must have a dress code so the clients are fully aware of who really is rendering assistance without being suspicious. By so doing, you not only give your organisation a good name but also earn trust from customers.

—Guest Luzert

Yes

If not, a lot of people would look unprofessional. Like the stated reasons, it is strongly encouraged to dress appropriately, whether or not there's an official dress code at the work place. To follow these guidelines should be common sense!

—Guest jkl

Dress Code

Yes! There should be a dress code. Freedom looks good and appropriate when it has boundries. So, proper and adequate dress code expectations earn dignity and pride for the company.

—Guest Atif

Dress codes are a must but...

One of the problems that many organizations face regarding attire is the dreaded 'Casual Friday' request. Once implemented there are always individuals that cross the albeit grayed line. After discussing it in a meeting we determined that the problem was twofold first there are no defined rules and second the name is counterproductive to a work environment. Once we identified the issues we decided to fix it and then we had a writer put it in to a great article entitled, 'The Rules of Accoutrement'. Please check it out here http://www.dagleyinsuranceblog.com/2010/07/rules-accoutrement/ to see the new name for 'Casual Friday'

—Guest Dagley

Yes Dress Codes

IN MY VIEW THERE SHOULD BE A DRESS CODE. Employers should have a dress code BECAUSE today's youngsters want to have freedom, but most of them do not know how to manage themselves, particularly about their way of dressing. Tops and skirts so short... Putting in a dress code makes the entire environment pleasant and conducive for easier work done and a healthy life.

—Guest SHEETAL

Safety, Honor and Trust

Yes I do think it's necessary; these three words give the character of who you are, or how you want to be and be seen. Dress to impress but don't overdo it, there are limits. And sexy is not the way to do it. Be and think positively. One day you will be where you want to be, just do it the right way.

—Guest Amy K.

No More Stress at School

Dress codes should be abolished because of the fact that it will not only stress out parents but students as well. Dress clothes can be a pain when having all of school's normal responsibilities on top. These include social stress, exams, homework and any sports or clubs they have to worry about. Schools with dress codes don't let their students express themselves. Sure they are there to learn, but it would be easier without the worry about what they need to wear.

—Guest Trentdiaz

Definitely...it takes the guess work out

Dress Codes are a must in my book. Not because you want to dictate, but to help your staff. Guides can reduce stress, positively impact morale, reduce gossip, and increase performance. Especially for new workers - a guide gives them support and understanding. For supervisors, it provides a resource for coaching. Keep it simple, direct, and have a little bit of humor when communicating the guide to the staff.

—Guest C Hicks

Absolutely!

Today's youngsters wants to have freedom, but most of them do not know how to manage themselves particularly about their way of dressing. Tops and skirts so short, it is embarrasing for others to look at. Some guys wear jeans so low that underwear and beyond is exposed. Organisations can give freedom of dress; at the same time there should be some dress code, so that the company image is maintained.

—Guest Jaison Abraham