You’ve finally landed the work-at-home job of your dreams! But before you swap your three-piece suits and button-down shirts for pajama pants and casual tees, make sure you come up with a game plan for your work-from-home wardrobe.
While it’s true that working from home gives you more apparel options (you can, after all, decide that today is PJ day!), working at home means you are still on the job. And sometimes what you wear or even the simple act of getting dressed can do wonders for your work-from-home productivity.
Consider following these six wardrobe tips so you know what to wear when working from home to help you shift into work mode and perform at your best.
Working from home has become more common than ever. With remote work on the rise, many companies are implementing dress codes for their at-home employees. A clear and thoughtful work from home dress code policy provides guidelines while allowing for flexibility and comfort.
In this comprehensive guide we’ll cover everything you need to know to create an effective dress code for remote employees including
Why Have a Work from Home Dress Code?
While employees may enjoy the comfort of working in pajamas or loungewear, this can present challenges:
- It can undermine professionalism during video conferences and meetings
- Employees may be less motivated and productive
- The company brand and culture can become diluted
A work from home dress code helps maintain professionalism and unity. It lets employees know there are still standards to uphold while working remotely.
Key Factors to Consider
When creating a dress code for remote employees keep these factors in mind
Company Culture
Consider your existing office dress code and company culture. Avoid drastic shifts in expectations. Ease into more casual options to help employees adjust.
Employee Roles
Set expectations based on the employee’s level of client interaction More client-facing roles may require more professional attire.
Regional Norms
Account for regional style differences and weather conditions that affect what is considered “business casual.”
Flexibility
Provide clear guidelines while leaving room for personal expression. Allow employees to be comfortable but professional.
Dress Code Policy Guidelines
Specify expectations for common remote work scenarios:
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Video conferences: At minimum, a neat, collared shirt or blouse. Sweatshirts and revealing clothing are not appropriate.
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Phone calls with clients: Business casual attire expected from waist up.
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Internal video meetings: Casual clothing is fine, but avoid revealing or sloppy clothing.
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Off camera: No dress code enforced. Wear whatever makes you comfortable!
Examples of Acceptable Attire
Provide visual examples of what’s acceptable for common dress code tiers:
Business Professional
- Suit, blazer, or dress
- Collared button-down shirt
- Nice slacks or skirt
Business Casual
- Dress shirt or blouse
- Sweater or cardigan
- Khaki or dark pants
Casual
- Company t-shirt or polo
- Jeans or casual pants
- Plain t-shirt or sweater
Seasonal Considerations
Advise employees on adapting attire for:
- Winter: Swap heavy sweaters for collared shirts on video
- Summer: Lightweight, breathable fabrics still look professional
- Spring/Fall: Transition with cardigans and neutral layers
Exceptions and Accommodations
- Allow reasonable religious accommodations, unless they create an undue hardship
- Provide accommodations for disabilities/medical needs
- Ensure dress code enforcement does not discriminate against any group
Measuring Success
Track these metrics to gauge dress code effectiveness:
- Employee satisfaction surveys
- Manager feedback on video meeting attire
- Client comments/complaints about employee presentation
- Policy violation rate
Make revisions as needed based on feedback and noncompliance issues.
Enforcing the Dress Code
Train managers to enforce the policy consistently and respectfully:
- Discreetly address issues 1-on-1 to avoid embarrassment
- Provide concrete examples of violations
- Explain benefits of policy to build buy-in
- Follow progressive discipline principles for repeat issues
Promoting Compliance
Get employees on board with these best practices:
- Explain the why behind dress code expectations
- Highlight benefits like professional development and collaboration
- Share examples of appropriate attire
- Offer flexibility within guidelines
- Encourage input and feedback on policy
A work from home dress code need not be restrictive to be effective. With clear communication and empathy, companies can craft policies that help remote employees look and feel their best. The key is finding the right balance of professionalism, flexibility, and comfort. Approach dress codes collaboratively and consistently to gain employee buy-in. When employees understand the intent behind policies, they become more invested in upholding them.
Comfort Is Key
Another benefit of working remotely is that you have more control over your environment (the temperature in your home office, the lighting, etc.), and you can make your space as comfortable as possible.
The same goes for your wardrobe. If wearing slippers instead of shoes all day makes you feel better, go for it! When you’re more comfortable and happier at work, you’ll likely be more productive, and that’s a win for everyone.
Tips for Your Remote Work Wardrobe
While one of the perks of remote work is that you can sport casual attire all day, try not to stay in your pajamas all day. The occasional PJ day is fine, but you probably shouldn’t make them your default uniform.
Just like showering, you wouldn’t skip getting dressed if you were going into the office. So, continue the routine of getting dressed every day to help your brain get ready for a day of productive work.
And while yoga pants or sweats are perfectly acceptable work-at-home wardrobe choices, consider this: some studies have found that what you wear can affect how well you perform your tasks.
