I am wondering lately what happened to this concept. For a while, it seemed like this was a very important topic. There were books and articles and I think even multiple episodes on “Oprah” that were wholly devoted to the subject.

During this time, everyone had to be schooled on not only how to dress for success but also on how to dress to impress. The unwritten code of business attire was that whatever you wore would make an undying, unforgettable statement about who you were and where your career path was headed. Your clothing choices were going to go on your professional “permanent record.”

Now, it would seem that dress for success or any kind of dress code, for that matter, has gone the way of the VCR.

Just to see if this concept had truly died, I did a Google search and was pleasantly surprised to find that there are still dress-code standards and that many websites have up-to-date information and advice for dressing in the workplace.

Don’t misunderstand; I totally support the concept of casual Friday and the idea of a more relaxed workplace. In addition to being a huge boon to Dockers, I think that having a day and an atmosphere where we can all loosen up a bit and dress more comfortably is a good idea. I am certainly not looking for men’s suits and ties or (heaven forbid) pantyhose to make a comeback, but I would like to repurpose four reminders from About.com on dressing for success for the 2010s and beyond:

1. Clothing that works well for the beach, yard work, dance clubs, exercise sessions and sports contests is still not acceptable for the workplace.
2. Clothing that reveals too much cleavage – your back, your chest, your stomach or your underwear – is not appropriate.
3. Clothing should be pressed and never wrinkled. Torn, dirty or frayed clothing is unacceptable. (Irons are on sale quite frequently at Best Buy and make a good investment.)
4. Hair should be clean and well-maintained. The gel/slick look and/or the double-wrapping ponytail with ends sticking out in all directions are for the beach or the dance club and are not the best for looking professional.

Whew, I feel better now; I think Oprah would be proud.

Filed under: Public Relations, This and That

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