Relaxed dress codes also lead to reduced productivity and lax behavior. Image counselor Judith Rasband claims that the general casualization of America has resulted in an overall decline in civility. Manners break down, you begin to feel down, and you re not as effective, she says. Others fear that the authority and credibility of casually attired executives, particularly females and minorities, are undermined. Moreover, casually attired employees turn off customers.
Supporters say regardless of critics, employees love casual dress policies.
As a result, nine out of ten employers have adopted casual dress days for at least part of the workweek. They argue that comfortable clothes and relaxed working environments lift employee morale, increase employee creativity, and improve internal communication. Employees appreciate reduced clothing-related expenses, while employers use casual dress as a recruitment and retention tool. The following suggestions, gleaned from surveys and articles about casual dress trends in the workplace, can help future and current employees avoid casual dress blunders. For job interviews, dress conservatively or call ahead to ask the interviewer or the receptionist what is appropriate.