+44 (0) 1908 774320
   
Roger Eddowes

Essendon Accounts & Tax

Home of the Business Godparent ...

Understanding the Complexities of a Dress Code in the Workplace

Roger Eddowes

CREATED BY ROGER EDDOWES

Published: 03/07/2025 @ 09:00AM

#DressCode #WorkplaceDressCode #ProfessionalImage #InclusivityatWork #EmployeeConcerns

When it comes to a workplace dress code, employers often grapple with the balance between professionalism and comfort, particularly as weather patterns shift towards warmer temperatures. The implications of a rigid dress code not only affect employees' comfort, but also have the potential for legal ramifications if perceived as discriminatory ...

Dress code in the workplace, Suits and ties, Heels and blazers, Do Polo shirts reign?

Dress code in the workplace, Suits and ties, Heels and blazers, Do Polo shirts reign?

Given the more relaxed standards that have emerged in various industries, employers must carefully consider the expectations they set regarding workplace attire. A strict dress code - for instance, requiring male employees to wear suits and smart shoes while allowing female employees a broader range of clothing options - can inadvertently lead to perceptions of inequity.

As temperatures rise, male employees may seek to adopt more breathable and comfortable attire, such as shorts and sandals. However, if these options are deemed 'not smart' by the employer, an apparent disparity arises that could be construed as indirectly discriminatory.

Understanding the nuances of direct versus
indirect discrimination is crucial!

If a company's policy has disparate effects on different genders, employees may find grounds for a discrimination claim. The critical question revolves around whether a similar level of smartness can be achieved by both men and women within the established dress code.

As highlighted in the case of Department of Work and Pensions v Thomson, employers must ensure that their dress code allows for flexibility and an equitable standard of dress across genders.

In light of these considerations, it becomes imperative for employers to engage in open dialogue with their staff regarding the workplace dress code. Exploring alternative options for male employees that align with the concept of 'smart' attire could lead to sustainable practices.

This process not only helps maintain morale, but also empowers employees by recognising their needs and perspectives. Employers may find that options such as tailored chinos or polo shirts paired with formal shoes permit men to achieve a professional appearance while remaining comfortable in warmer weather.

The overall structure of a dress code policy should
encapsulate the ethos of the organisation!

It should clearly articulate expectations for employee appearance, both within the office and while representing the organisation externally. A well-thought-out policy enhances the business image and fosters a sense of belonging among employees.

To prevent future misunderstandings, regular reviews of the dress code in light of employee feedback and changing trends are essential. Such an approach not only reinforces a culture of inclusivity, but also showcases the employer's commitment to employee well-being.

The Dress Code In The Workplace serves as both a reflection of a company's professionalism and its capacity for inclusive practices. By addressing potential imbalances and adapting to the evolving needs of the workforce, employers can create an environment where all employees feel valued and comfortable.

Engaging employees in this dialogue not only mitigates risk, but ultimately strengthens the corporate culture.

Until next time ...


ROGER EDDOWES
Join our mailing list! Click here and be one of the first to know when we publish a new blog post!


Would you like to know more?

If anything I've written in my blog post resonates with you and you'd like to discover more of my thoughts about your office dress code and how you can make it fair and equitable, then do call me on 01908 774320 and let's see how I can help you.

Don't forget to stay updated with our daily social media posts on Facebook.

Share the blog love ...

Share this to FacebookBuffer
Share this to FacebookFacebook
Share this to TwitterTwitter
Share this to Linkedin (popup window)Linkedin
Share this to Pinterest (popup window)Pinterest
Share this to WhatsApp (popup window)WhatsApp

#DressCode #WorkplaceDressCode #ProfessionalImage #InclusivityatWork #EmployeeConcerns

About Roger Eddowes ...

Roger Eddowes 

Roger trained at Edward Thomas Peirson & Sons in Market Harborough before working at Hartwell & Co, followed by Chancery, as a partner. He started Essendon Accounts and Tax with Helen Beaumont in 2014 as a general practitioner with a hands-on approach.

Roger loves getting his hands dirty, working with emerging, small-to-medium and family businesses to ensure they receive the best possible accountancy advice. Roger utilises an extensive network of business contacts to leverage the best guidance and practical solutions.

More blog posts for you to enjoy ...

Click here to view this blog post


How the HMRC R&D tax relief tool can streamline claims

Curious about the HMRC R&D tax relief tool? Here's how it clarifies eligibility, reduces risk, and supports better claims. It's a pragmatic boost for research and development ......

Click here to view this blog post


Unlocking sustainable economic growth through smarter, steadier government

Here's a clear path to sustainable economic growth: stable rules, simpler taxes, and targeted investment. It shows how government policy can unlock business growth. It's optimistic, practical, and focused on outcomes ......

Click here to view this blog post


Do you need to file a self-assessment tax return this year?

Wondering if you need to file a self-assessment tax return for 2024/25? Here's what's changed, who must file, and when to act. Stay ahead, avoid penalties, and keep things simple ......

Click here to view this blog post


Why the Autumn Budget 2025 will be the Chancellor's hardest test yet

The Autumn Budget 2025 will need to balance tight fiscal rules with an already weakened economy. Can we expect a clearer tax strategy? Business rates reform? Will there be cautious support for investment? I think it's going t...

Click here to view this blog post


Royal Mint Monopoly 50p Coin Marks 90 Years of Family Rivalry

Curious about the Royal Mint Monopoly 50p coin? Here's the story behind the design, the price, and a hidden golden twist. It's a neat nod to a Monopoly milestone ......

Click here to view this blog post


What HMRC using AI on social media really means for you

Here's the lowdown on HMRC using AI to review social media in criminal tax probes. It's about more intelligent fraud detection with human oversight, not bots running wild. Taxpayers should receive clearer guidance and fewer e...

Click here to view this blog post


HICBC: New process for paying the High Income Child Benefit Charge

The High Income Child Benefit Charge can now be paid via PAYE. No more self assessment just for HICBC, if eligible. Here's how the rules, thresholds and practical steps work ......

Click here to view this blog post


Understanding Tax On Pensions Without The Jargon

Here's a clear guide to tax on pensions, from allowances to lump sums and tax codes. It also covers savings, dividends, and side income. No fuss, just the essentials ......

Other bloggers you may like ...

Click here to view this blog post


Why your business needs a cyber resilience plan for 2026

Posted by Andrew Parker on https://blog.wolvertonsolutions.com

Cyber resilience matters! So here's why you really should have an updated cyber resilience plan in 2026. We explain how to prepare, respond, and recov ...

Click here to view this blog post


Europe plans to ditch US tech giants for open-source resilience

Posted by Pritesh Ganatra on https://blog.btsuk.net

Europe plans to ditch US tech giants and shift to open source for resilient, sovereign infrastructure. It's about trust, control and data privacy, not ...

Click here to view this blog post


Clarity isn't corporate fluff: Align teams without losing speed

Posted by Steph Birch on https://blog.birchstrategicservices.com

Clarity isn't corporate fluff; it's the accelerant for fast-moving SMEs. Set a crisp 18‑month direction, define roles, and make one‑to‑ones count. Exp ...

Click here to view this blog post


Blogging: Why You're Not Doing It And How sBlogIt! Can Do It For You Instead

Posted by Steffi Lewis on https://www.sblogit.com

Blogging is a missed opportunity for many small business owners. You may worry you lack the time or expertise to do it effectively. With sBlogIt!, the ...

Click here to discover sBlogIt! The done-for-you blogging service