Assignment Two Draft with Peer Comments

Fashion in the Workplace 1

Running head: FASHION IN THE WORKPLACE

Spring 2014

Fashion in the Workplace: Assignment Two

Lavernia V. Boyd

University of North Carolina Charlotte

2

*refer to figures 1 and 2 for visual of business casual for men and women

#refer to figures 3 and 4 for visual of business professional for men and women

Background and Introduction

Yes, I am one of those people. I notice what everyone is wearing and quickly formulate

an opinion. Wrong, perhaps but first impressions can mean the difference between a positive or

negative experience. This is the case in everyday life. Think about it for a moment we all

formulate opinions based on dress. For example, you go into a hospital one doctor has on scrubs,

a stethoscope around his neck and a clipboard in hand. The other doctor is wearing headphones

and a football jersey. They both graduated from John Hopkins University. Who do you want to

treat you and why? We both know it is the doctor who looks like a doctor and it is because

perception is everything. Based on his attire he would seem to be the more professional of the

two. This topic is of personal interest because I love fashion but as i dug deeper I realize there is

a disconnection between what people think is workplace appropriate and what really is

workplace appropriate. As well as, the importance it plays in their careers and how people view

you based on dress. On a weekly basis I feel like I’m in two figured worlds, the government

center where I work and UNCC campus where I learn. At work, people for the most part adhere

to the dress code of business casual. On campus it is pretty much come as you like just be

present. There is no standard for dress and I wonder if that is a cause for the struggle with the

transition from college to work. For those already in the workplace struggling I believe it to be

some apathy towards the dress code or to conforming to the system and structure. The mindset of

is if no one is going to enforce it why should I do it? The issue may seem trivial it is after all just

clothes. However, when what you are wearing can impact your income or the opinions of those

you need to see you as competent then it takes on another level of importance. Unfortunately, the

way people perceive things is the way you must navigate your professional life. So employers

and customers perceive people who dress professional are professional, true, not necessarily but

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you have to work within that thinking in order to be successfully. My goal was to explore the

issues of perception with regards dress code in the workplace. I want to pay special attention to

face value judgments, how conforming to your organizations dress code is critical for success

and finally what exactly is business casual or business professional attire.

Literature Review

Term: Business Casual – A dress down version of traditional business dress (i.e. suit and tie).

Business casual for men means no tie or jacket is necessary however, the requirement is neatly

press slacks and shirt with polished shoes, a jacket is favorable. For women it can be a variety of

items dresses, slacks, skirts, blouses and polished shoes.

Business Casual

What is business casual? The biggest fashion problem in the workplace is truly understanding

the concept of “business casual.” For men it can mean anything from a sports coat with or

without a tie to pleated cotton slacks with a collared shirt, short sleeve polo shirt and loafers. For

women pant suits, dresses, suits and coordinated shirt and slack ensembles (“Confusion reigns

in”, 2003). The term of business casual can go even further, being so detailed as color, texture

and patterns of clothing. Pastels large floral prints and bright colors are not viewed as favorably

as neutrals colors such as; beige, taupe and brown (Chaney & Martin, 2007, p22). In the banking

industry and heavy client based companies, “there is a fine line between looking professional,

relating to their clients and keeping employee morale high”, the solution is business casual dress

(Entzminger, 2005). Society sees the need to prepare perspective employees on the appropriate

dress in business. There are various programs that assist low-income job seekers to define

“business casual” dress. Surveying a group of low-income job seekers determined that they knew

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what traditional business dress was (suit and tie) but had problems when confronted with the idea

of business casual (Saiki, 2013). Since business casual is a topic that is confusing among

generational lines a helpful way to convey the standards for business casual and its defined

meaning is to put the dress code in writing, this way employees’ have a guideline to follow

(Entzminger, 2005). In the actual workplace, business casual is important you will find

management level employees dress in that manner. It is an expected behavior both Wanda and

Olaf in the workplace observation were always dressed according to the standards of their

workplace (Boyd, 2014).

Changing Times

Why Business Casual? The short answer is that the market place demands that style of dress. It is

recession proof dress. Recently, employers have noticed the trend of employees’ dressing better

to keep their jobs. When observing a conference from one year to the next, the once slouchy

dressed attendees were now dressed up with a suit and tie. “The obsession with creativity at work

is this ludicrous idea that if you were dressing in a more relaxed way you would have better ideas

(Montagne, 2009). Employees know that they are being watched and dress and grooming is

noticed. Dressing professionally is essential not only in getting the job but keeping it as well.

The notion of moving away from “Casual Friday” is also on the table. “Either Friday is a

workday or it isn’t” (Montagne, 2009). While it may not seem possible, in observation one on

Friday when a relaxed style of dress is acceptable, Wanda was still dress in a ‘business casual”

manner (Boyd, 2014). Another reason is the decline of what was called the dot.com era. The

influx of internet start-ups allowed workers to stay at home and not have to dress unless meeting

with perspective clients. With the return to the office the business expectation is “business

casual” (Entzminger, 2005). Companies in the fortune 500 category want to take it a step further

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56% of them maintain a business attire policy which drops the casual and means suit and tie for

men and suit or dress for woman. Their reasoning executives feel this promotes a better image

and productivity (Gardyn & Fetto, 2002). Research has outlined the business professional dress

which is higher end clothing, and is a lot more restrictive. Business professional dress suggests

that employees stick to certain color suits such as; dark blue and gray keeping in line with a more

classic traditional style (Chaney & Martin, 2007).

Company and Employee Image

Society defines the meaning of appearance through clothing, accessories, grooming and

hairstyles all which communicate a powerful message. Employees are the frontline of what

clients see and based on this a company can have a positive or negative impression in the minds

of their clients. It is also determined that when employees are dressed professional they feel

professional and are more productive. A company lost a client after they made an office visit, the

CEO of the client company mentioned that the final decision came down to the fact that the

competitors’ employees dressed and acted more professional and had a business manner (Chaney

& Martin, 2007). Dress matters, customers feel that when the employee is dressed well the

service will be equal and the reverse is true, when dress inappropriate service would be

substandard. Additionally, researchers have found that people form impressions of another

individual based on the clothing worn by the individual (Yurchisin & Watchraveringkan, 2011).

Human Resource professionals believe that their role is to help companies realize that

organizational culture is impacted by workplace attire and therefore, they should assist in

determining the dress code. Organizations should look to hire individuals that can comfortably

be brought into the company dress code (Peluchette and Karl, 2007). So what do the numbers

say? “Coming across professional is very important” (Entzminger, 2005). According to the

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“American Industry Dress Code Survey” comprised of senior level executives at companies

which had an annual revenue of over $500 million, this is how the senior executives felt about

employees dress in professional attire such as;

a. Project a better image 70%

b. Are more likely to be noticed 68%

c. Tend to command more respect 60%

d. Feel more confident 49%

e. Appear more organized 46%

f. Are more likely to get promoted 22% (Gardyn & Fetto, 2002)

Overall, companies are looking for individuals that will boost company image.

Conformity

Success and advancement are two words you want in your professional career. In the workplace

for that to happen you must conform. Using the example of TV show Ugly Betty and the main

character Betty Suarez, researchers try to show that “conformity is not a bad word” (Burgess-

Wilkerson, & Thomas, 2009). Many of the students when viewing the episode felt she was

competent and her wardrobe was an extension of Betty’s individuality. Moreover, they felt that

the way she dressed should not affect her chance at promotions or the way management viewed

her but her ability (Burgess-Wilkerson, & Thomas, 2009). Is conformity necessary to succeed?

Researcher Kiddie would dis-agree, back in 1980 he was new to the job market and started his

hunt for his first job. He had two choices IBM and Bell Labs he choose the latter due to the

relaxed dress code. He continues by encouraging his business students to determine if the

business they are considering matched their preferences for business attire. Searching for clues

by browsing the company’s website, reviewing their annual report, anything that would provide

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a clue as to the dress code and the company’s interpretation of such code (Kiddie, 2009).

Dressing appropriate for work “is still important for workers who want to make a good

impression and advance their careers” (“Confusion reigns in”, 2003). Conforming to the dress

code of your workplace is the expectation. When Matt Lauer cohost of The Today Show was

interviewed on the Larry King Live, Larry asked Matt whether he had changed is attire since

being in his current position Matt stated that he now wears a suit every day because he never

knows when he will be called upon to interview someone of high rank and that a suit gives him

the visual credibility he needs (Chaney & Martin, 2007).

Entering the Conversation

As I researched fashion in the workplace I realized there needs to be a clear cut plan on

how employers not only establish a proper standard but help employees understand the

importance. With all the research and information the standard is confusing. Why is business

appropriate dress so important? Can’t you work in jeans and sneakers and be as productive as

you would wearing a suit? Of course, but the real question is will you be viewed the same way. I

propose a training class that would take attendees through a fashion in the workplace boot-camp.

It will help them clearly distinguish between what is appropriate and why. I see the class having

various breakout sessions and topics such as; dressing for your workplace, perception vs reality

and conformity this would be intended to reach the younger generation, a guest speaker or two

would also be helpful. The guest speakers should include current professionals in the workplace

perhaps a Human Resource representative and a Senior Executive of a notable firm. Those new

to the workforce seem to struggle with workplace appropriate; it could be because of four years

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of jeans and sneakers to class or working in retail jobs that require uniforms. Whatever the

reason for their struggles, a section needs to be dedicated to change the mindset.

Dressing for your Workplace

This section would consist of defining what the dress code policy is whether it is business

casual* or business professional#. Outlining in full detail that business casual for men are

pressed slacks, a collared shirt, a belt in good condition and polished shoes. For women it is any

assortment of skirts (not too tight), blouses, dresses, pumps or flats (no stocking required), slacks

and cardigans. On the other hand if the dress code is formal then for men it is suits in traditional

colors (navy, black, grey and brown or beige), ties and polished shoes. For women working

under a business professional policy it means a suit and blouse or pantsuit but either requires you

to wear stockings and pumps NO stilettoes. I would even prepare them further, what if the job

they want does not have a dress code policy in writing. There are two solutions if in doubt err on

the side of conservative or you can mirror the top level executives. To see if they have the

concept of what both styles of dress mean I would introduce my first breakout session at this

point

Breakout Session

In this session I would include various clothing for men and woman. I would then request

some volunteers to make a complete outfit for business casual and business professional discuss

why they think each is appropriate. Which style of dress they prefer and why? At this point I

would incorporate the research work of Kiddie who explained why these trends are essential and

how to determine if the company they are considering matches their preferences for business

attire. He also provide various recommendations to students such as; browse the company’s

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website, find the company’s annual report, as to whether the company has a dress code if they

respond business-casual dig deeper to find out their interpretation of the policy and observe other

employees during the interview process (Kiddie, 2009). Finally, make adjustments to each outfit

as needed and move on to the next topic.

Perception vs Reality

I have heard people say “don’t dress for the job you have dress for the job you want”. I

hate that saying because what does it really mean? If I work in the mailroom and I want to move

into management should I wear a suit to deliver the mail? What that statement really means is

that it is all about perception. The reality is in most companies what you wear especially if

behind the scene does not affect what you do or how you do it however, the perception will be

that you don’t care about your appearance and as an extension your work. If you want to

advance in a company you should be adorned in the dress code policy. That statement holds

more weight if you work with the public. Let’s take a bank teller for example, do you want to

come in the bank and your teller has on a hoodie or a slogan T-shirt? No, but neither effects their

ability to count money or take deposits. Employers and customers perceive professionalism

through dress initially, so in order to have a professional image you must dress in a professional

manner. Think about dress in others areas, when you get dressed up to go out or you have on that

favorite outfit, how does it make you feel? Isn’t there an air of confidence, the same is true of

the workplace. Both males and females have indicated that the appropriateness of their clothing

affected the quality of their performance and their mood in the workplace. (Peluchette & Karl,

2007). This would be a good time for another breakout session with a guest speaker.

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Guest Speaker –Senior Executive of a Notable Firm

The speaker will discuss what their impressions are of inappropriate dressed employees.

How this can negatively affect their career and chances for advancement. When it comes time for

someone to represent their company what are some of the factors that would disqualify an

employee from being selected. They could also discuss which dress code is required at their

place of business and why that decision was made.

Perception vs Reality Part II

Next, from the comments of our guest speaker this lets employees know they are being

watched and whether a dress code policy is written or not it goes to show there is an expectation.

Research was done regarding hand-washing that will drive home the point about perception and

reality. Bear with me I know it may seem like a stretch but there is a point to be made. The

research was conducted in two phases, one was a written survey and the second phase was actual

observation and signage. When the students took the written survey woman 99% and men 93%

stated they washed their hands. However, when they observed the hand-washing behavior of

students 73% of women and 58% actually washed their hands with soap however, when a sign

was put in a prominent place the number of men who washed their hands increased (Nichols,

2014). So my point is this the reality is everyone does not wash their hands but the perception is

that we know we should, because otherwise you are viewed in a negative light (i.e. nasty or

unclean). The reality is you don’t have to dress according to dress code to work the perception is

that you do in order to advance.

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Conformity

I want to be an individual. My clothes make a statement about my personality. This is America

right? How many agree with these statements? They are all true but when it comes to the

workplace you are not an individual in the collective sense you are an employee and lumped into

a group with your co-workers. Employers expect you to follow the standards for all employees.

Conforming to the dress code of your workplace is the expectation. When Matt Lauer co-host of

The Today Show was interviewed on the Larry King Live, Larry asked Matt whether he had

changed his attire since being in his current position Matt stated that he now wears a suit every

day because he never knows when he will be called upon to interview someone of high rank and

that a suit gives him the visual credibility he needs (Chaney & Martin, 2007).

I love the example of TV character Betty Suarez one she appeals to the younger

generation because she is the poster child of non-conformity. Her character shows how not

conforming affects ones chances of promotion or being taken seriously. Students as part of

research were asked to watch an episode of Ugly Betty and then a lively discussion began on

conforming to workplace appropriate dress. Some of the comments included “Although she

would be more successful, her dress should have nothing to do with her ability,” (Burgess-

Wilkerson, & Thomas, 2009). While I have previously established that dress and ability are

separate, conforming demonstrates you are willing to play within the rules. Everyone likes when

you play within the rules especially management. To show your willingness to conform starts

right from the onset. This is why dressing appropriately for an interview speaks volumes. It says

to your potential employer I know what is expected and I’m willing to play within the rules. At

this point I would add the final breakout session our next guest speaker a Human Resource

professional.

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Guest Speaker –Human Resource Professional

Talking points for the HR professional would be based off of the following questions:

1. How much does dress factors in on the interview process?

2. Two identical candidates from an experience standpoint what determines the

selection?

3. What is their role in helping their organization develop the dress code policy

4. What are some of the repercussions of not following the dress code?

Why Should You Care?

Well let’s consider what happens if you don’t care. If you show up for an interview

dressed unprofessional what are the chances of getting a job offer? In today’s market with the

level of competition and as we slowly move out of the recession good jobs are at a premium.

You need something to get your foot in the door and being well dressed is a start. Don’t miss

understand you need to have some skills to back the visual presentation but first impressions are

everything. Take it a step further you get the job anyway, there is a promotion available at your

place of employment. Who do you think they will look to promote? If you and another employee

have a similar skill set what will cause your name to get mentioned over another, yes it is dress

and grooming. So dressing appropriate for work has a direct impact on your earning potential

within your company. Conformity, sounds like such a bad word in our society. Everyone wants

to be recognized as an individual, however in the workplace you conform to dress and stand out

as an individual through your talents. Recently, employers have noticed the trend of employees’

dressing better to keep their jobs. When observing a conference from one year to the next, the

once slouchy dressed attendees were now dressed up with a suit and tie. (Montagne, 2009). This

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means your competition realizes the importance of professional dress or business casual at work.

To get to the next level and be ready for opportunity conformity is necessary. Consider all the

research we reviewed, employers are;

1. Expecting employees to be in compliance with the dress code policy.

2. They believe that you are more productive when dressed professional.

3. Conscience that their customers feel you are more capable when dress professional.

4. Aware that you are a direct reflection of the organization and represent them.

So you have to ask yourself how important is success in the workplace to me? Once you answer

that question you will make sure you are taking the necessary steps to be workplace appropriate.

Overall, I found that business casual and professional dress is highly important to major

companies. Most companies have a dress code whether it is in writing or an unspoken there is an

expectation of proper dress in the workplace. They expect people to come through the door

knowing that and if you don’t they will move on to the next candidate. Conforming is necessary

to make advancement and there is a true definition for business casual which looks different for

the genders. My hope is that this training session enlightens the workforce as to what fashion in

the workplace should look like and how it plays a significant role in their future career goals.

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Figure No.1 Business Casual for Men

Figure No. 2 Business Casual for Women

Figure No. 3 Business Professional for Women

Figure No. 4. Business Professional for Men

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References

Boyd, L., (2014) Assignment One, Fashion in the Workplace, English 1102

Burgess – Wilkerson, B., & Thomas, J. (2009). Lessons from ugly betty: business attire as a

conformity strategy. Business Communication Quarterly, 72(3), 365-368.

Chaney, L., & Martin, J. (2007). Business dress and grooming. In The Essential Guide to

Business Etiquette (pp. 13-24). Westport, CT: Praeger.

Confusion reigns in workplace fashion. (2003, May). USA Today Magazine, 131(2696), 6.

Entzminger, A. (2005). Briefing: dress down or up? banking dress codes continue to

evolve. ABA Banking Journal, 97(10), 7.

Gardyn, R., & Fetto, J. (2002) Dress code American Demographics, 24(5), 13.

Kiddie, T. (2009). Recent trends in business casual attire and their effects on student job

seekers Business Communication Quarterly, 72(3), 350-354.

doi:10.1177/1080569909340681.

Montagne, R. (Narrator). (2009, June 24). Workers dressing better to hold on to jobs [Radio

broadcast episode]. In M. Sikka (Producer), Morning Edition. Washington DC: National

Public Radio.

Nichols, A. (2014) Actual vs. Reported Behavior Increasing Handwashing in Public

Restrooms. Swiss Journal of Psychology, 73(1), 41-46 doi:10.1024/1421-0185/a000119

Peluchette, J., & Karl, K. (2007). The impact of workplace attire on employee

self-perceptions. Human Resources Development Quarterly, 18(3), 345-357. doi:

10.1002/hrdg.1208

Saiki, D. (2013). Identification of workplace dress by low-income job seekers. Journal of

Employment Counseling, 50(2), 50-57. doi:10.1002/j.2161-1920.2013.00024.x

Yan, R., Yurchisin, J., & Watchravesringkan, K. (2011). Does formality matter? effects of

employee clothing formality on consumers' service quality expectations and store image

perceptions. International Journal of Retail & Distribution Management, 39(5), 346-362.

doi: 101109/09590551111130775

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Documents

Assignment Two Draft with Peer Comments