Recent studies have shown that employees are more productive when working from the comfort of their own home, where they are able to sit back, relax and work in whatever attire they please – whether that’s a robe, onesie or boxer shorts. We’re not suggesting that you encourage your employees to wear anything of that nature, but we are suggesting that you think twice about how your office dress code will be perceived. Summer is right around the corner, and that means it’s time send out a casual reminder about the dos and don’ts of office apparel. Before you do, here are some things to consider from LinkNow Media:

Is your dress code outdated?

If you’re a millennial, you likely remember the skirt below fingertip rule, where your skirt had to fall below your fingertips when standing with your arms at your side. Or, you may recall the three-finger rule, where the straps of your tank top had to be thicker than the width of three fingers. If you have ever been called out for wearing clothing that violated these dress codes, then you know how humiliating it feels. While rules like these are put in place to maintain a professional work environment, you need to ask whose professional work environment is being prioritized.

Is your dress code stifling employees?

A productive and efficient office encourages creativity and authenticity – why not extend that encouragement to your dress code? We’ve pointed out the fact that happy employees are more productive, more engaged and more creative, which leads to improved business metrics. When people are wearing clothing that they feel comfortable in, they feel empowered, and that confidence goes a long way in making quick decisions, interacting with other employees and getting work done.

What is the future of office dress codes?

We’ve looked at generation z a few times, and noted that individuality is very important to them. And what better way to stand out from the crowd than through your clothing? If an employee can’t distinguish themselves from the rest of their coworkers, they might feel like just another cog in the system. With the job market becoming increasingly competitive, you need to do whatever you can to attract top talent. That may mean saying goodbye to blazers, pencil skirts and high heels.

Final Thoughts

What do you think about office dress codes? Do they still have a spot in the workplace? If so, to what extent? Let us know in the comments section below.