Dressing For Success

Today's workplace dress codes are more varied than ever, but as the lines blur, we're left wondering: Is dressing down impacting how we show up - and how confident we feel at work?

- Cheryl Lai-Lim

In Season 5, Episode 26 of The Office, Toby Flenderson, the HR representative, delivers a memorable line: "What you got to understand is, when you come into work, you give up certain rights." He was specifically referring to the right to dress as you please. While meant humorously, this quote hits upon a deeper truth - the expectations around workplace attire.

Historically, employees conformed to strict dress codes as a sign of professionalism. In recent years, the rise of flexible work arrangements, hybrid working, and the popularisation of "Casual Fridays" have significantly relaxed these codes. Adding to this shift, the Silicon Valley start-up culture has championed even more casual attire, further transforming our approach to workplace dress codes.

However, as our work attire becomes more casual, it's worth asking: Has this shift undermined the perceived value of our professionalism? Are we losing sight of how our presentation impacts our standing in the workplace?

THE PRESSURE TO "LOOK THE PART"

Her World's 2024 What Women Want survey revealed an interesting paradox: While 54 per cent of respondents say that their workplaces embrace casual dress codes, 56 per cent also feel judged based on their appearance at work.

This dichotomy underscores an important issue while the norm may be shifting towards more relaxed attire, the pressure to "look the part" remains significant.

Women, in particular, often face heightened scrutiny regarding their appearance. "Society tends to impose more rigid standards on how women should present themselves," notes image stylist and colour analyst Lee Jung Eun. "Women are often expected to look polished, well-groomed, and adhere to specific dress codes that can be more restrictive than those for men."