Should there be a dress code in colleges or at workplaces?

Let's see what our CEans have to say about this.

Many colleges and corporates have a dress-code policy. Some of the colleges have their own uniform and some of the big corporates ask you to wear business formals on Monday - Tuesday, allow semi-formals on Wednesday - Thursday and casuals on Fridays.

Do you think you attire has anything to do with the way you work? Do you think dress-codes actually reflect the culture of an organization? Do you think its better to have a dress-code at workplaces?

Let the world know your opinion!

I personally do not favor dress codes or uniforms. If it is a public organization than a big no to dress codes. A private organization has the right to inforce any dress codes they wish. I think unless you are dealing directly with the public or clients than what does it matter what you wear. The personal freedom and increased comfort can improve productivity, that's why a lot of cutting edge businesses have no policy at all (like IT).

Man, If I was the boss of a company, I don't want my employees to be too slacking in their dress code. At least maintain some professionalism! I believe its about balance; not too strict as to confine creativity, but not too slacking to make employees lazy.

I suppose I agree the dress code is a reflection of the culture of the institution. Think about the military; one of the ways to instill discipline is to make sure the uniforms are immaculate.

Well, I believe that the dress code doesn't have any effect on the way people work. However, it is an indicator of 'discipline'.

As Kidakaka said, there is a difference between discipline and professionalism. In my opinion, professionalism is related to the way of working and it should not be affected by the way you dress.

I was wondering why Indian IT Giant Infosys asks its employees to follow different dress codes on different days of week ( Friday -> Casuals can be understood )

I knew one of you will bring google up

Oh well, I still think you should have some sorta dress code in a workplace. That doesnt mean a specific colour or style. Just means: wear decently. That decency is the "uniformity" here, but you are no restricted to the colour you wear.

And I think discipline does play a little role, if not a big one. Coming to work on time, not extending the lunch time, going home late to finish work etc. I'm sure its quite common in India to set a meeting at a particular time, but the others come late. Happens often here in Malaysia! I think im going off topic here with the discipline stuff. But I think a certain dress code would help with that.

I mentioned the military to link the aspect of work and dress code. So, the dress code is a MUST for some types of work. Other examples include: air stewardess.

I think im jumbling my points up.. my apologies for that!

Speaking of air hostess, I always thought it was funny that they wear a uniform. Only 150 people around, if they are pushing the drink cart up & down the aisle etc... they're more than likely working. =)

Discipline is vital however I feel that is best inforced via coaching for improved performance/reviews. I know you do to, It just can be hard if you are managing both employees' performance characteristics and other areas (like clothing police) all at the same time.

Ok, I guess its my fault for talking about "uniforms" in the first place Obviously we dont wear uniforms in workplaces (i.e same colour, same style). Thats not what I'm talking about.

When I said:

and

It was to reflect the role and perhaps culture of the organization of the place. I agree its not a sole method of instilling discipline, but.. whatever helps a little, right?

However, I did say it would be nice to maintain some sort of.. er.. formality in the office. Business shirt, tie, business pants, work shoes.. not round neck t-shirts (except maybe the CE-Tee!), shorts and slippers (chappels?). Of course, as an engineer on the field, you'd wear something more rugged.

crazysandy, I think nowadays military uniforms are designed to camouflage onself into the environment. Funny you mentioned about hospitality, though (hint: nurses)

Anyhow, I hope we arent going off topic.. keep the discussion going!

Vivek, how would you connect being professional to the attire?