by BizSession
| Fridays - To Dress-Down, or not to Dress-Down? |
Jan. 16, 2006 |
As you well know, it has become the habit of many companies to participate in "Dress-Down" or "Casual" Fridays. In fact, it is estimated that nearly three quarters of all offices in North America participate in these policies. Though most people do enjoy the opportunity for business casual, a much more comfortable attire, there are often certain questions which come to mind when Friday morning comes around and it's time to pick out one's clothes.
The most important of these questions is, of course, what to wear. Though many businesses do participate in dress-down Fridays, the number that layout dress codes for what is appropriate on these days is much lower. Furthermore, the definition of casual business attire seems to vary from person to person, making it difficult to create a uniform idea of what is acceptable. This is because casual dress is dependent upon so many different variables, such as gender, type of business, geographic location, and the job's required daily tasks.
All the same, when it comes to dress-down days, as long as you use your common sense, then there shouldn't be a problem. Aim to wear clothes that are neat, clean, and that match, as opposed to those that are revealing, sloppy or wrinkled, dirty or stained, as well as those with offensive or tasteless messages printed on them. Try to continue to look professional, even if you are not wearing your more formal work clothing.
There have been a number of very pleasant benefits to wearing casual business clothing at least one day per week, as well as a few problems as well.
As far as the benefits are concerned, there is a notable improvement in employee morale when employees are allowed to dress in a business casual style. Productivity tends to increase, as does communication among team members and their managers.
However, when employees are permitted to wear casual clothing, issues about dress code propriety become much more present. Furthermore, due to the nature of casual clothing - with its great diversity, and thus its lack of uniformity, as well as its divergence from the traditional conformity of business dress - causes some people to feel less presentable when they are in professional situations. They may not be taken as seriously, and may not be viewed as being as effective as they would when they are dressed more conventionally.
As long as dress-down days in offices are limited to Fridays, any disadvantages faced by casual clothing seems to be overcome by the great advantages. It seems that it is only among companies that have allowed "Casual Fridays" to occur every day that the disadvantages outweigh the advantages of the enjoyment of dress-down Fridays.
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