Relax…it’s good for you.

Shirts and cufflinks in the office? I can see why they are preferred. Smart, impressive, and give off an air of power. If a person is interacting with other powerful businessmen or women, a suit is a must. Can you imagine turning up in jeans and a t-shirt? Who is most likely to broker a deal: someone who looks smart, confident and tidy, or someone dressed casually?

There are different levels, however. It depends on the office. If you are somebody who simply sits working on a computer and/or answering the phone all day, and have no interaction with any prospective clients, why shouldn’t you be comfortable while you work? Instead of sitting in an uncomfortable suit, complaining about how hot it is outside, why not be able to wear the above mentioned jeans and t-shirt?

It would certainly make the employee feel more comfortable and thus, increase productivity. I see no reason why you have to get dressed up in order to be able to use a computer.

Thus, I would conclude that rather than use the term “office” generally, it should depend on what type of office and what kind of work is being done. If you’re trying to impress someone, I would go for the shirt and cufflinks look. If you’re just sitting in front of a computer all day, there appears to be no reason to get suited and booted – unless you want to of course.