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Why Does a Company Need a Dress Code Policy?

Updated: Aug 26, 2019

Today, a formal dress code is required in most companies and offices. However, some workplaces are more permissive and do not comply with certain standards for clothing, but appeal to common sense and respect between the co-workers. It is usually essential to wear office clothing when dealing directly with customers daily.



The implementation of a dress code has many advantages:


  • The clothing of the employees reflects the company culture, the work environment and the business standards. This is the main reason why so many companies of all sizes continue to apply a formal dress code.

  • A dress code creates a positive impression for you and your clients. You will be seen as a representative of your company, your brand and even your industry. Some employees also claim that a formal dress code makes them look "smarter". It's just a mental influence on your productivity.

  • One of the main reasons for a dress code policy is that it promotes professional behavior. Formal clothing can remind employees of more formal settings and work interactions.

  • The purpose of a dress code is to promote equality and team spirit. Employees will feel part of the company culture, and their look will inspire unity. This will lead to many positive consequences, such as supporting colleagues, securing pride and responsibility or a better understanding of corporate values.

  • A standardized dress code deactivates a daily "fashion show" on the hallways. The workplace is geared towards productivity and not towards displaying the latest fashion trends. Employees will focus more on their tasks than on clothing.


What critics say about the company dress code can be summarized as follows:


  • Will the dress code improve my performance?

  • Does a formal look make me smarter?

  • Is a formal dress code required in workplaces where there is no interaction with customers?

  • Formal clothing does not give you the right to express yourself.

  • Why does my co-worker always ignore the dress code policy?

  • Formal clothing requires more expenses.

  • Formal clothing is not always as comfortable.

  • Formal clothing is difficult to clean as normal clothing.


It is up to each company to define the dress code policy approach. In my opinion, there should be a balance between formal and informal that allows employees to express themselves and increase their productivity.

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