Summer Dress Codes

Author: Chris Cook

With Summer (hopefully) on the way, the issue of appropriate attire in the workplace can become problematic for employers.

More and more offices are introducing dress-down days and “business casual” dress codes in an attempt to create a relaxed atmosphere at work. Hot weather can also lead to conventional office wear becoming too restrictive. This can cause problems and create uncertainty as to what is acceptable office wear.

An easy way to avoid problems is to include details on dress in the company staff handbook. This not only protects employers, allowing them to set guidelines on what will be acceptable or not, but also assists employees who may otherwise find deciding what to wear a challenge.

Employers should be careful to operate any dress policy consistently to minimise the risk of a claim of discrimination being made. It is also important to bear in mind any employees who may hold religious beliefs which dictate certain items of dress and ensure that any policy does not place such employees at a disadvantage.