How does your place of employment measure up for a summer dress code?
Summer wardrobe for the professional can be a hassle. Heck, summer wardrobe for ANYONE who has to work can be a hassle. Follow these simple suggestions for a clean and dry look while conducting business on those hot, hazy days.
It may seem like a cliche, but as an employee of any company, you are a representative of that company, and must always act and look that part. Before heading out on your summer wardrobe essentials, first check with your personnel or Human Resources Department, to see if there is a formal company policy for summer dress. Even if there is no formal code, check around to see if there is an unformal dress code - meaning that while there is no official rule, the heads of said company frown on short shorts or sandals.
Many companies are now a bit looser on allowing shorts in an office environment and other areas - but careful on the length! Short shorts are still a no-no pretty much anywhere, as are very short skorts(shorts that look like skirts, or vice versa) for women. Most, however, still nix those cool, comfortable sandals - depending on the company. The reason? Open toes are more prone to injury, and if it happens on the job, well, the company has to pay. Most retailers frown on sandals for this reason, but do allow an open back shoe. Offices often now do allow sandals (um, no flip flops though) - just check around to see if it's okay. Look around your place of employment - is there a chance something could drop on your foot and injure an open toe/foot? If so, your company may frown on sandals. Don't despair though! Invest in a couple of cool pairs of slip ons (loafers for guys)- stay away from man-made plastics as your foot will only heat up even more. Get a couple of bright colours to give yourself a visual lift - you'll feel cooler just looking at your feet.
Short sleeves are usually fine, but do NOT come to that meeting in a muscle T! Wear cottons, and avoid polyester as much as possible (yep, even the poly-cotton blends heat up).
For those working outdoors, you need to protect yourself. Slather on that sunscreen, and try to keep that shirt on. As work boots are essential for this environment, keep cool by using two pair of socks - again, avoid polyester. Wool (heavy work socks) over cotton works really well to keep that sweat away from your feet. Yeah, it sounds weird, but it works!
Baby powder, talcum powder, or just plain corn starch will also help keep your underarms dry - use after your deodorant. Forgot about those potential wet spots, eh?
So, what does your place of employment allow you to wear? Let's hear from our readers - just post your comment on this article or feel free to email me! For now, stay cool!
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Copyright July 7, 2007. Paym Bergson and Suite 101. All rights reserved. Any unauthorized use of this material will constitute an infringement of copyright.
