In the business world, strict dress codes have always been enforced to provide a guideline for workers on the appropriate and professional workplace attire. With the increase in casual and creative business environments, dress codes have been shifting and are becoming more and more relaxed. While that works for certain industries, dress codes, even for casual attire, are still very much a thing. Past generations of workers and employees have been dressing according to their profession and business industry codes and for good reason. Read on to gain more insight into why dress codes are important in the workplace.

What Is A Dress Code?

A dress code is a set of guidelines on attire that are outlined for all employees to follow accordingly. Depending on the industry, the dress code can greatly differ. However, whether it is a uniform, formal, business casual or casual attire, there still needs to be a code in place that reflects the essence of the business’ industry. A dress code includes the dos and don’ts of what to wear while at work and work functions. It indicates the specific type of clothing whether formal or smart casual or even casual. It also includes a list of prohibited clothing, such as graphic t-shirts, mini-skirts, shorts, and such. Each company and industry has its own policies, but at the end of the day, they all have them in some form or another. Here is why a dress code is important. 

Establishes An Impression 

It is a known fact that your appearance forms part of the impression that coworkers and clients will have of you and the business you represent. The standard rule is that you should dress as if you will be meeting with a client at any time on any given day. People create their first, or on-going, opinion of you based on visuals more so than anything else. Your attire and how you choose to dress while conducting your business will make people treat you accordingly. If you are unsure of how to dress in a way that expresses your personality while still staying within your company’s dress code, then check out these collections for inspiration. You will find that there are many staple pieces that you can rely on in any outfit. As a rule of thumb, follow the saying that says, dress for success. This should work in most business settings.  

Reflects Business Values

The dress code that employees and workers abide by is automatically an extension of the business’s values. Again, based on the industry, the dress code will vary. Engineering and the law firms will most likely enforce stricter dress codes that involve suits, while a marketing or tech company will allow more laid-back and casual attire. Clients are able to gauge what type of professional or industry they are working with just based on their attire. Generally, many company owners take punctuality, keeping up with timelines, and professional attire to make up a conducive and productive business environment.

Creates Workspace Cohesion 

All companies strive to create a unified and cohesive workplace. This creates a harmonious environment and levels the playing field across all employees. Similar to industries that require a uniform, it helps employees feel that they are part of a familiar group and makes them more focused on work rather than on appearances. This eliminates the awkwardness that comes with people wearing whatever they want, where one is dressed in formal attire while someone else is completely underdressed in shorts. While individuals have a right to express themselves through their clothing, they have to respect that their companies have the same right to enforce how they want their business to be represented to clients. A dress code helps employees and employers ensure that everyone is promoting the company’s values, focusing on productivity, and generally eliminating any feelings of inequality based on attire and appearance.

Dress codes are sometimes seen as outdated policies and for many people, they feel that they are merely a way to make employees conform to a standard that is constricting to their personalities and freedom of expression. However, dress codes are ultimately a reflection of your workplace’s values, goals, and modus operandi. These guidelines are important as they help promote an equal and cohesive work environment between all employees. And to you as an individual, it helps set a positive impression with clients and co-workers alike. This is why companies still implement a dress code as in the business world, it is a reflection of you and your company in the marketplace.