It's A Casual World

by Jessica Flora

Dress codes in the business world have drastically changed. Previously it was not uncommon to see suits and ties on a normal workday. Now companies are allowing employees to dress casually on certain occasions or even daily.

Creating a dress code that meets business needs as well as employee preferences is challenging for companies. It is important to consult with employees while still upholding your company values. Employees are taking dress codes into consideration when searching for jobs or evaluating satisfaction with their current company.

The Survey Says

According to AAIM Employers’ Association’s 2015-2016 Policies and Benefits Survey of 150 St. Louis and Central Illinois businesses, 100% of employers allow a set number of days per week for casual dress. Two days per week was the average number of days casual dress was allowed.

Issues to Consider

Be clear and consistent. Clearly communicate your dress code policy. Leave no room for interpretation. Then enforce the dress code consistently across your organization. This starts with training frontline supervisors on how to handle individuals who violate the dress code.

Consider reasonable accommodations. The dress code you develop may affect an individual with a disability or go against an employee’s religious beliefs. Situations should be reviewed on a case-by-case basis. Accommodating these situations will help prevent discrimination claims.

Jessica Flora, PHR (solutions.team@aaimea.org) is on the Research and Solutions Team for AAIM Employers’ Association, which helps Missouri and Illinois companies manage their people and processes.