The Demise of the Tie and Other Business Attire Musings

I recently attended the CILEX (Chartered Institute of Legal Executives) Annual Conference.

Tucked away in the booking info was the dress code for the event - "business/smart dress'". This raised three issues for me;

1. Why?

2. How do you define, "business/smart dress"?

3. Who are you to tell me what to wear!

I've always pushed back when it comes to being told what to wear if it's just for the sake of it. That's why I'll never be invited to the Captain's table on a cruise. I'm on holiday, for God's sake!

Anyway, I rocked up at the Conference in a nice grey to blue suit, collared pink (not salmon) shirt and mid-tones tie. Black, highly polished shoes on my feet. Even though I say it myself, I looked pretty tidy. The other delegates? They either didn't see the dress code or used a definition that I'm not familiar with.

Are compulsory dress codes a load of bull?

In recent years, I've witnessed a significant shift in workplace fashion. The classic suit and tie, once mandatory for someone like myself working in the legal profession, are being replaced by more 'relaxed' attire in many environments. The pandemic accelerated this evolution, with remote work becoming the norm and comfort taking precedence over conventionality. But that was five years ago. What's going on?

The Shift in Business Attire Norms

The move away from formal business attire has largely been driven by changing workplace dynamics and cultural shifts. Many companies have adopted a more casual dress code, acknowledging that productivity is not dictated by what someone wears. A survey by the staffing firm Robert Half found that 66% of executives believe casual attire has a positive impact on morale. This change is evident in tech companies like Google and Facebook, where employees often wear jeans and t-shirts instead of suits.

"Tuck your shirt in, Barwick!"

Moreover, remote work has reinforced this transformation. Employees working from home have prioritised comfort in their clothing choices, and the necessity of dressing up has diminished. Virtual meetings can easily be conducted in casual wear, leading many to wonder: do ties still hold any importance in business?

The Impact of Context on Attire Choices

Beyond the casualisation of dress codes, context, of course, plays a crucial role in determining appropriate business attire. Certain industries have always embraced a more relaxed style, such as the creative fields and startups, where self-expression is encouraged. Even in traditional sectors like finance and my area, the legal profession, there are instances when formal outfits may not be warranted. Clients today often appreciate authenticity over polished appearances, allowing professionals to express their personalities through clothing.

There I am, in the pink shirt, head in hands!

The Zelensky Controversy: Dress Code Expectations

Many of you will remember a notable example of business attire scrutiny occurred when Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky visited the United States. His decision to wear a casual olive green sweatshirt and cargo pants was met with criticism. Many commentators argued that he should have donned a suit to represent Ukraine more formally. Critics claimed that his attire was inappropriate for the occasion, as it signified a lack of respect for the formalities of diplomacy. Others, like myself, commented that Mr Zelenksy probably had bigger issues to worry about than suits and egos.

This incident highlights the ongoing debate over appropriate dress in professional settings. While some insist on adhering to tradition, others advocate for a more contemporary approach. Zelensky's choice sparked discussions about whether it's the message or the manner of delivery that matters most in diplomacy.

The Evolution of Workplace Fashion: A Balancing Act

The decline of the tie and suit does not mean that professionalism is diminishing. Instead, it reflects a new understanding of workplace culture that values comfort, authenticity, and personal expression. For example, companies like Zappos embrace a casual dress code that aligns with their focus on company culture and employee happiness. Their motto emphasises that employees should "dress like it’s a Saturday,” encouraging an atmosphere of relaxed professionalism.

That would mean me turning up in smelly running kit and muddy trainers.

As professionals navigate this new landscape, they can adopt a balanced approach. Consider the nature of meetings or events. In situations where formal attire is optional, such as creative brainstorming sessions or casual client meetings, dressing comfortably is perfectly acceptable. However, for critical presentations or high-stakes meetings, a well-fitted suit or a polished outfit may still convey the desired level of professionalism.

Final Thoughts on the Future of Business Attire

The future of business attire lies in flexibility and personalisation. Consumers can, and should, embrace various styles that align with both their comfort and professionalism. The focus should remain on how attire conveys professionalism rather than the specific garments worn.

Any thoughts? Drop a comment.