Several months later I was transferred to Northern California, having left either a legacy or a trail depending upon who one spoke to. Upon reflection, most dress codes are a mindset. Other than safety and health issues, they have little to do with a rational view of the world, a business' customers, or the fact that change does take place. That said, for the more staid organizations, there are limits which must be set. One nose ring is one too many.
Organizational status is directly proportional to flooring.
As most of you have noticed, the lower echelons in most corporations have linoleum. The next level has institutional carpeting, kind of what you'll find in airports. On the next level you may find the same carpeting with padding. At the vice president level, the carpet has a oneinch nap. Senior vice presidents get carpeting so thick that it is unnecessary to wear shoes.