Casual Fridays: How Casual Clothing Invaded The Business World

There is a need for the presence of well-tailored suits and empowering high heels in the business world. Businessmen and their associates need to command respect when attending to clients and as professionalism is best signified by crisp fabrics, pinstriped suits, and A-line skirts, 'business attire' has become a requirement in most offices worldwide. Stiff and formal; boring and uncomfortable; these are only some of the complaints of workers about having to dress a certain way everyday. They also explain, that the way they perform at work is influenced by how they dress, and if they are uncomfortable then these restrictions will be reflected in the work they deliver.

In the late 1950s, certain companies introduced 'Casual Fridays' that gave permission to workers and executives to come to work in jeans, shirts, hoodies, and even sneakers. The goal then was to boost the morale of the workers, and although it did not pick up until the late 1970s, the route of evolution that 'Casual Fridays' took has taken it to a whole new level. Nowadays, you will find people in the workplace sporting jerseys and micro mini skirts. Ladies can be seen wearing cut-off pants and worn-out jeans. Somehow it seems, people have forgotten that they are at work and this has prompted the need to redefine the boundaries of casual clothing when inside workplace.

What is the acceptable casual wear for work? What are the boundaries of comfort in terms of office wear? With how things have turned out, it seems only fitting that some ground rules be defined. So, how should one dress when coming to work during 'Casual Fridays?' The following are some guidelines that you can follow:

1.First of all you have to remember that you are what you wear and most importantly, how you present yourself at work will be how people will gauge the type and quality of work you can do. You should always keep in mind that clients will judge you first by the way you look, before they even speak to you, so make sure to make a good first impression.

2.Mix professionalism with comfort. Never forget where you are at all times and so do not dress for work as if you have just left the bed. You cannot compromise professionalism for comfort and vice versa, so be careful not to disrespect the company by coming in to work on a Friday, looking like you belong back in bed.

3.Sportswear is for sports activities and beachwear is for the beach. There is a time and a place to wear all your other outfits, so it would be a good idea to keep them out of the office.

4.As there is always the possibility for a business call or a meeting, never put yourself in an uncomfortable position. Be prepared for the possible need to be a bit dressy. Accessorise to enhance your look and do not play too much with colours. Keep them simple, while still keeping comfort in mind, and it would also help if you had a jacket or a cardigan handy, in case the need arises.