Our Zintro experts love to talk fashion – and fashion in the workplace is changing. We turned to our experts to learn about new trends and to find out if casual Fridays are a thing of the past.
Prof J, a consultant on historical textiles and historical fashion says emphatically that casual Friday is most definitely not out of fashion. “While dress codes still exist, they vary from industry to industry and location to location. Some workplaces are always in casual Friday mode, while others never experience it. Google with its focus on creativity dresses more like casual Friday everyday whereas a law office may never experience it,” he says. Prof J points out that some companies do not like casual Friday dressing and do not allow deviation from a regular dress code because the style can bring in questionable attire. “Flip flops are out, no matter how dressy they are. Designer jeans, especially the distressed look, are out. Low cut anything is out. Shorts, baseball caps, t-shirts with a message, are out. Sweats and gym clothes, out too,” he explains. Casual business attire is still appropriate, says Prof J. “Depending on where you work, casual Friday may mean a switch from pencil skirts and heels to slacks and flats, dark or black pants with a neutral shirt, office appropriate shoes, and accessories topped with a classic blazer or cardigan sweater,” he explains. “It can mean slacks and polo shirts or button down shirts without ties for men. Jeans may or may not be allowed. Unfortunately, not all employees understand the concept of casual Friday. It’s a step down from traditional work wear, but it does not mean weekend wear. It’s a good idea to watch what fellow employees are wearing and follow suit, especially in a new job.”
Joan Mansbauch, a fashion and marketing expert, says that since the 1990s, so called business attire has taken on a softer, less staid profile. “The younger generation has contributed to more casual dressing in the workplace, on all days, not just Friday. For example, advertising and public relations agencies, in most cases, allow jeans throughout the work week,” she says. “For those companies that require business attire for four days, casual Friday is looked upon with anticipation and can evoke a positive attitude among employees. As long as casual dressing maintains good taste and stays business appropriate without pushing the envelope, it should be here to stay.”
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