Should Wardrobe Standards in the Workplace Become More Relaxed?

If you asked Gen Zers and Baby Boomers about what’s appropriate in fashion today, they would likely have a difference in opinion. The way people dress for work, church and school has drastically changed over the years. As fashion evolves, workplace wardrobe standards remain a burning question on everyone’s minds.

Wardrobe standards remain traditional rather than trendy in the workplace. Angel Harris, a human resources manager, thinks sticking with those traditional standards is the best way to be seen as professional .

“Over the past five years, I’ve observed a significant shift in how we approach workplace attire,” Harris told 21Ninety. “Business casual attire was the standard, leaving little room for personal expression.”

Style Changes Over the Years

According to Harris, there is a big difference in how people dress at work now compared to 10 years ago when she started working in human resources.

“Dress codes were much more formal, dictating exactly what employees could and couldn’t wear,” Harris said.

She says today, companies are taking a more flexible and inclusive approach to what workers can wear. In fact, a recent survey found that some workplace etiquette rules, like a dress code, are less important today than they were five years ago. Companies with a lenient dress code, among other factors, can help recruit new employees and contribute to more a positive work environment for them.

“Many organizations embrace diversity, individuality and comfort in their office dress codes,” Harris said.

While that is commendable, Harris still thinks there should be a level of professionalism workers should aim for.

“The way you present yourself at work can impact your reputation, relationships, and even your career growth,” Harris said.

What Workplace Wardrobe Should You Avoid?

Recently a woman went viral online after revealing she wore shorts to a job interview . The recruiter she was interviewing with asked her to go home and change. Harris thinks wearing shorts to work is totally off limits no matter what the culture at work.

“In my view, shorts are strictly street fashion,” Harris said. “No matter how you dress them up or style them, they aren’t appropriate for the workplace.”

When picking out something to wear for work, Haris said she avoids anything that shows too much skin. Her list of unacceptable tops for work include spaghetti straps, crop tops, low cut tops and offensive or inappropriate graphic tees. For bottoms, she doesn’t wear shorts, miniskirts or distressed jeans.

“[Avoid] anything which compromises modesty or reveals parts of their anatomy reserved for intimate moments,” Haris said,

Wearing hats is also not acceptable in her book.

What Should You Have In Your Workplace Wardrobe?

Harris says being stylish doesn’t mean you have to be limited in what you wear to work.

“As a fashion-conscious millennial, I believe workplace attire plays a crucial role in the corporate environment,” Harris said.

Her examples of appropriate tops include button down shirts, blouses and sweaters. For bottoms, she says dress pants and capris are ok. Dresses and skirts should be the appropriate length. You can pair these pieces with dress shoes, loafers and sandals. For a more comfortable look, you can try pairing a blazer with denim jeans. Another easy way to dress up, but still feel relaxed is to put on sneakers with business casual workwear.

“It’s important to understand both the explicit and implicit dress codes that exist,” Harris said. “Traditional business attire is always a reliable choice.”

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