Dress code has been a hot topic for several years now, not only in fashion but especially in business. While it's not mandatory in our office (we also focus on basics here), we'd love to explore this topic in more detail on the blog. We know that some of you build your wardrobe according to specific rules, specific to your profession or company, so with this article, we'll try to make it a little easier for you. We'll share the answer to the question of what a dress code is and list the different types . We'd also like to show you that a dress code at work doesn't have to be a limitation!
What is a dress code?
To explain the meaning of this concept, we need to go back to the 1950s, specifically to the time when American scientists working at the University of Texas conducted a study on a group of men. A simple experiment proved that clothing significantly influences changes in people's attitudes. Today, the term "dress code" is most simply explained as a specific way of dressing, appropriate for a given occasion. It's important to remember that dress code depends not only on the occasion or type of work , but also on factors such as country, culture, and religion. The most popular example is the office dress code . It's also worth mentioning that in some companies , dress codes are part of their image strategy – which is why bank employees often wear uniforms that match the colors of their company logos. Police officers and firefighters, whom we always associate with distinctive uniforms, are also excellent examples. This comparison perfectly demonstrates that dress codes don't always look the same . Learn about their different types!
Dress code types
- Casual – the most comfortable option, accepting informal options like jeans or sneakers. It's important that the outfit isn't too revealing. Clothes should, of course, be clean and neat.
- Smart casual – we've already written two articles about this style: SMART CASUAL Style: Everything You Need to Know About It! and Smart Casual Style – The Golden Meaning of Elegance and Relaxation . Be sure to read them to learn what characterizes this style.
- Business style – a style characterized by elegant and stylish solutions. For men, the basics are a dark suit and tie, and a light-colored shirt. Women wear dresses or suits, elegant skirts or trousers, paired with a shirt.
- Black tie – a style that refers to evening wear. As you've probably guessed, it includes tuxedos and long ball gowns.
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White tie is an even more formal dress code . However, the difference is very simple. "Black tie" means a black tuxedo, an elegant white tuxedo shirt, and a black bow tie. "White tie," on the other hand, means wearing a tailcoat, a white bow tie, and a white waistcoat.
When do we apply a dress code?
As we mentioned, dress codes are most common in business and company culture, which is why it's crucial to ask about the dress codes when starting a new job. It may turn out that your company culture requires formal attire, but you might be tempted to suggest a more informal, casual style. However, dress codes have a much broader application than just the workplace—specific attire is also required for specific situations and events. On our blog, you'll find, among other things, an article with advice on what to wear to a wedding .
3 Ways to Create a Practical Smart Casual Dress Code
- Whenever possible, try to choose items that will work in many situations , not just the office. A great example is a casual shirt – perfect for work, but also for everyday outfits with jeans or sneakers. Another example is chino trousers, which can be worn with a classic shirt and blazer, or with a polo shirt and sneakers.
- Pay attention to detail – remember that see-through underwear or a T-shirt under a shirt is a fashion faux pas. Be sure to stock up on our MISS MELLOW or MR INVISIBLE , which will provide a stylish complement to your outfit.
- As is well known, the recommended colors in dress code are navy, gray, white, and light blue, but remember that you can also add other colors that are incredibly elegant. Examples include burgundy, deep purple, or bottle green, which are perfect for office wear. A blazer in this shade will give your outfit a unique energy!
We're curious if you have a dress code at the office – let us know in the comments. We're also looking forward to hearing your tips for creating business casual outfits. Perhaps you have your own favorite wardrobe staples? Be sure to follow our weekly posts. We'll definitely be preparing more content for you, packed with fashion tips and tricks, and the topic of dress code will be covered here more than once.
Patricia from ANSIN
