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The only lawyer I've ever had pretty much wore business casual and helped me out perfectly. Much opposed to the suit and tie types that wanted $10k first, then kill my case and restart from scratch.

I work with students, and they really show up in everything (or worse, out of everything). Yes, clothing matters in a first impression, but fairly quickly after that achievement should take over. I've had very well-dressed students who are utter slackers, and very inappropriately dressed students who are way too smart. And vice verse. In the end, your appearance says little about your work ethics. As long as clothing is not too extreme, and body odor is under control, it's pretty much ok.

Also, nobody is suggesting that everyone should work in sport clothing. What we're discussing is what is appropriate at work considering the changing way people come or want to come to work.

Quite frankly, I often find it dehumanizing how corporations demand their people are dressed. I feel bad for all the women I see change between flip flops and high heels when they walk in and out of their office buildings. I feel bad for men who have to wear full suits in extreme heat or cold.

People claim that it's for the effects you mention, but in reality it's more about conformity and exactly the opposite: It sets stature, regardless of achievement.

Look for instance how in the medical world the length of your coat determines your place in the hierarchy. Or how in car dealerships, mechanics wear overalls, while salesmen wear business casual and the manager wears a suit. Usually though, it's the suits that screw you out of your money, not the mechanics.

by Jasper on Jun 21, 2012 2:16 pm • link • report