Does Your Company Need A Dress Code?


The way that your staff dress matters. However, that isn’t to say that a strict dress code is always needed. If you’ve been thinking of implementing a dress code into your company, here are some of the considerations you should make. 

Think Practical

In many careers, there are some clothing choices that simply aren’t practical. It could be a matter of health and safety – for example not having hair up whilst preparing food or wearing hanging jewelry whilst operating machinery. Protective equipment such as hard hats and protective gloves could be essential for keeping your staff safe and preventing lawsuits. In some cases, having a dress code could just help prevent mess and extra cleaning – having overalls as a mechanic or as a painter-decorator can stop clothes being damaged by grease or paint. 

It’s worth also thinking about how active your job is. For medical work, many companies will choose something loose but without sleeves or tassels that could get in the way such as these options from Uniforms and Scrubs. General office work may not require any practical clothing rules as you’re not moving around or having to protect yourself from hazards or deal with messy substances. 

Consider Your client 

Certain clients may expect a certain level of formality. Suits may be required in many business to business professions. That said, if you run a creative company such as a web design company or social media management company, a strict dress code might not give off that sense of creative flair. 

There are lots of different levels of formality and you don’t want to overdress or underdress and put off clients. Within retail and hospitality jobs it can be sometimes be hard to gage – consider whether your service is more towards the economical or luxury end of the spectrum. 

It Could Be A Branding Opportunity 

A uniform could be a chance for extra branding. It could help to build upon the identity of your business or help market your business if you’re used to working on the move in different locations. There are many cheap companies out there such as Logos4Polos that can print branded polo shirts. Work overalls, caps, aprons and even blazers can also be branded. 

However, Your Staff May Not Like A Dress Code 

A dress code can feel restrictive and may take away people’s sense of individuality. There are also controversial issues of sexism and religious customs to take into account. It’s worth always discussing a uniform with your staff first to see what they would be comfortable wearing. You should also let your staff know of the reason you’re implementing a dress code – whether it be for practical reasons, to reinforce professionalism or boost your branding. Introducing a dress code without telling your employees why could mislead them into thinking that it’s a punishment, which could make your staff resentful. Talk it over and your staff may be more accepting of the idea.





I hope you enjoyed this article about determining whether your company needs a dress code. 

Interested in more articles about business fashion?

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Published by Michael J Schiemer
Owner of Bootstrap Business
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