When did dress down day become dress down week?

In this day and age we hear a lot about the problems we face as a culture, in that it is said society has become rude and less upholding of standards. Many people also say customer service has deteriorated.

It may seem like a stretch of the imagination, but I believe this may well be linked to the disappearance of the classy, tailored suit. Dressing to impress commands respect and displays professionalism, it is assertive.

More and more workplaces allow their staff to wear whatever they please, and in doing so may also be allowing their workplaces to become overly relaxed. However, it should also be noted that freedom of expression is of huge importance to a great many people and the freedom to wear what they please makes most people feel at ease and relaxed.

I’d suggest there is a happy medium – bring back class, bring back style – but bring it back in a modern way – there is no reason why we cannot be ourselves but in a smart, sophisticated way.

Tied to tradition?

In today’s increasingly flexible society, this question evokes a debate not simply about attire, but arguably about the importance of presentation in the workplace.  As far back as the 13th century, the cufflink has been used both for decoration and practicality, although recently there is a trend towards using buttons as an alternative for fastening cuffs.  Equally, formal shirts date back centuries, and are now seen as synonymous with success and affluence.
However, many would argue that in today’s world, such official apparel is not as needed as it was in days gone by. This is mainly due to the huge growth in communications over the past century.  In 1900, practically every meeting was conducted face to face, and so first impressions were vital.  Nowadays however, video conferencing, or telephone calls are very much the status quo.  Therefore, as a result of reduced personal contact, the opinions formed when first communicating are very much based on eloquence and professionalism, rather than presentation.
Equally, there are those who would argue a smart dress code helps to promote an organised and professionally conducted workplace. Equally, it may help to reduce potential distractions whilst working. Indeed, every City firm in London insists on a suit, cufflinks and tie combination; not solely through tradition, but also as a mark of expertise.  Overall, it would seem that whilst cufflinks and shirts are not seen as important as they once were, they nonetheless set a benchmark for efficient, professional work.

Men in Suits!

Women’s office wear has become much more informal. Jersey fabrics and prints are very acceptable nowadays. So if there has been a shift in general opinion of what is acceptable for women, does that mean the boundaries have changed for men too?

The short answer to this is no I am afraid! I do not believe however that this is a double standard. The issue is that whereas for women there are many smart alternatives, the same is not true for men. Anything other than a shirt and tie just looks scruffy. If your role relies on first impressions then by not conforming to this you are doing yourself a disservice. I am also a great believer in the saying ‘Dress for the job you want, not the job you have’. As I think scruffy dressers may be overlooked subconsciously for promotion even if they are equally right for the role. Another factor to consider for the men is that a suit, shirt, cufflinks and tie is very attractive to the ladies!

(photo by Mister Rad)

Shirts and Cufflinks

Are shirts and cufflinks a must in the office.  Well it does all depend on the type of office and the dress code.

Some offices have a smart/casual approach to dress, so it would only be appropriate to wear shirts and cufflinks in this case if you were hosting a meeting for some business clients from outside the company.

However if your office has a smart dress code -  perhaps because it is open to the public and wants to create a good impression for the company, then there is nothing to beat shirts and cufflinks.  Smart cufflinks show you have good taste.  But in an office situation, do make sure your cufflinks are tasteful – naked lady ones might not appeal to some of your clients!  Keep those for more informal/non-business occasions.

Cufflinks did go out of fashion for a time, but they are back now with a vengeance.  So shop around and find the smartest ones you can and dazzle everyone with them!

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.