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Every company needs a business dress code — but what does that really mean today? With more than 70% of employees wearing business casual or casual clothes to work, the traditional suit-and-tie is the exception, not the rule.
The challenge? Vague terms like “business casual” can confuse new hires and create inconsistent standards. That’s why your handbook should define each dress code clearly, with both dos and don’ts. While workplace styles have evolved, employees are still expected to present themselves in a professional manner that reflects the standards of the organization.
To cut through the guesswork, this guide explains the four most common business dress codes, what’s appropriate (and what isn’t), and how to write clear policies that keep everyone on the same page.
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Most companies organize expectations into four categories: business formal, business professional, business casual and casual dress codes. Each communicates something about your workplace culture, and choosing the right one should align with your business’ authentic identity.
The problem? Labels alone don’t provide enough guidance. “Business casual,” for example, can mean slacks and button-downs in one office but jeans and polos in another. Without clear definitions, employees — particularly newer hires — may not understand what is considered appropriate in your specific workplace.
That’s why your employee handbook should define each business dress code clearly — with examples of what’s acceptable and what isn’t. Doing so prevents misunderstandings, ensures consistency and reinforces the culture you want to project.
Let’s take a closer look at the four most common business dress codes and what they really mean today.
Each dress code category carries different expectations, ranging from highly formal environments to more relaxed workplaces. Below is a breakdown of the four most common business dress codes, starting with the most formal.
Elegant, conservative, polished, and very professional.
One step down from business formal. Also called Smart Business Attire or Smart Business Casual.
Often a source of confusion. While conservative suits can be left at home, this typically does not mean jeans and a T-shirt.
When writing your dress code policy, sometimes it is easier to say what is not allowed, which is exactly what J.P. Morgan Chase & Co. did. You can view their dress code here.
Generally, business casual is not jeans, T-shirts, overly tight or revealing clothing, athletic wear, beach-type clothing, flip flops, hoodies, hats, crop tops, visible undergarments and torn clothing.
Employers are getting creative in order to attract talent in today’s competitive labor market and a casual dress code is one of the perks employees want.
For today’s relaxed, casual and informal work environment.
In a business casual environment, jeans are often only acceptable on approved “jeans day,” but in workplaces with casual dress codes, jeans are often worn every day, and by both men and women. Shirts aren’t required to have collars and can be anything in good taste.
But even if your business embraces the popular casual dress code, it is still beneficial to have a dress code policy. Even with a dress code policy, your employees’ comfort and creativity can still be your chief concern.
While casual dress codes allow for significantly more flexibility, employees are still expected to present themselves in a clean, appropriate and professional manner.
Clothing Meant for Leisure or Exercise:
Attire suitable for the beach, yard work, nightclubs, or workouts is not appropriate in the workplace.
Torn, Dirty or Wrinkled Clothing:
Clothing should always be clean and well-kept — no torn, dirty, or excessively wrinkled items.
Offensive or Distracting Graphics:
Clothing with offensive words, images, or distracting designs should be prohibited in a professional setting.
Overly Revealing Apparel:
Apparel that exposes too much skin or undergarments is also inappropriate for the workplace.
Dress code policies may also include expectations around cleanliness and professional appearance. When concerns arise, managers should be prepared to address appearance or hygiene issues respectfully and in a way that maintains dignity for everyone involved.
Businesses that enforce an overly strict dress code risk losing out on top talent. Consider this: 79% of Millennials think they should be allowed to wear jeans to work at least sometimes.
Religious accommodations to the dress code policy should be addressed on a case-by-case basis. For example, some religious practices require individuals to wear head coverings or may prohibit them from wearing certain attire.
Efforts to accommodate these requests should be made by the employer as long as the accommodation would not threaten the health, safety, or security of the work environment, or come at an increased cost to the employer or a substantial burden to the other employees.
Not all dress code policies are about appearance. In many industries, safety is the primary concern. Employers may need to set clear rules around long hair, jewelry, facial hair or loose-fitting clothing to reduce workplace hazards.
OSHA provides specific guidance in this area. For example, workers who operate machinery should avoid loose clothing or jewelry that could get caught in moving parts. Long hair should be secured under a cap or otherwise contained, and facial hair may need to be limited to ensure a proper seal when wearing respirators.
Develop your policies with an HR expert. Contact us today for guidance. >>
As a final note, your business’ dress code policy should be clearly detailed in the employee handbook and easy to understand. Managers should also be trained to enforce the policy consistently across the entire team, particularly when addressing workplace dress code violations.
Dress code policies should also be reviewed to ensure they do not create discriminatory standards, including restrictions that may conflict with employment laws, such as the CROWN Act.
If one employee is allowed to bend the rules while another is disciplined, the business may be exposed to discrimination claims.
When it comes to workplace dress codes, understanding the do's and don'ts is crucial for maintaining a professional environment. Axcet HR Solutions, a trusted HR outsourcing company, is here to provide expert guidance on navigating this sensitive topic.
Ensure your dress code policies align with legal requirements and promote a positive work culture. Contact Axcet HR Solutions today to benefit from our comprehensive HR consulting services. Let our experienced consultants assist you in creating effective dress code policies that strike the right balance between professionalism and individual expression.
Don't leave your dress code to chance. Partner with Axcet HR Solutions and gain the knowledge and expertise needed to master workplace dress codes. Contact us today to learn more about how our HR consulting services can help your business thrive.
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