The reasons vary, and so does the definition of casual. And definitely no spandex. N.J. Corporate America's switch reflects what is taking place outside the office. Boundaries between work and play have eroded. But companies that allow dressing down aren't just doing it as an act of goodwill.
Some companies have no choice but to allow the Dockers look.
Take BDM, which had a huge response to its ad. We're doing everything we can to attract, retain, and motivate our work force. Pa. Company executives are much more approachable in the cafeteria line when they shed the stuffed-shirt look. Still, even at Netscape Communications in Mountain View, Calif., where garb has no boundaries, appearance is crucial for some employees. I have a certain image that I am trying to project.