Style Spotlight: How to Make a Dress Code You & Employees Will Love

What to wear & why

The last few years have seen massive changes in how people dress for work. If you’re in charge of your business’s dress code, there’s never been a better time to rethink what makes for “appropriate” workwear. With all the clothing options available today, there are plenty of ways to be comfortable while looking professional. With a few simple best practices, you can help your staff dress for both style and success.

The state of workplace fashion

The growth of remote and hybrid work has had a huge impact on the way people dress professionally. You might assume that a return to the physical workplace would also bring a return to pre-pandemic expectations for attire, but a Gallup poll found that actually isn’t the case; the way Americans dress for work is “significantly more casual today” than it was before COVID-19.

These differences often come down to generations. Many Gen Z workers’ first jobs after college were remote. They never had the chance to learn unspoken standards for workplace dress. Then, when employees get pushback from leaders or HR departments about these kinds of unstated expectations, it feels extremely alienating.

On the other hand, some workplace leaders are embracing casual dress. This could be an encouraging sign for employees who want to dress more expressively. On the other hand, it could confuse employees who come dressed in a tie only to see their coworkers rocking sweatpants.

The solution is communication. Modern workers expect dress codes to come from a place of practicality. If you’re in charge of your workplace’s dress code and you see an employee who doesn’t fit the bill, start with a conversation about where they’re coming from. You may end up inspired rather than frustrated—and your employee may leave feeling empowered to blend their personal style with your clear expectations.

Learn more about essential clothes for the job in our guide, Workwear 101: Top 18 Industry Trends.

5 tips on dressing for success

Different types of work call for different kinds of clothes. While a nurse may be on the lookout for the most comfortable scrubs for long shifts at the hospital, a farm worker may search for thermal workwear that keeps them warm and protected throughout winter projects.

Workwear also needs to be appropriate for the job you’re doing. A construction worker might want steel-toed boots to stay safe, while a sales representative could wear a formal suit or an elegant skirt to look professional.

Thankfully, some wisdom is universal when it comes to finding the best workplace styles (and reflecting those styles in your dress code). These five tips will help you explore all your options no matter where you work.

1. Consult your professional network

One of the best ways to know how people in your field are dressing is to ask them. Check in with people you know at your own company or in similar businesses. Since everyone can bring their own unique perspective to the topic, this makes a great icebreaker for networking events and other more informal work occasions.

2. Take some social media inspiration

Social media can be an endless source of fashion inspiration. Apparel brands, fashion influencers and members of the general public alike are all eager to share their latest “’fits.” Still, it’s important to apply a reality check to any of the looks you see going viral—just because spa workers in Miami are rocking shorts to work doesn’t mean it’s a good fit for your office in Milwaukee. If you use social media inspiration to keep up with workwear trends, without chasing after each one, you’ll find a happy medium.

3. Buy clothes that can do double duty

It used to be that people had one set of clothes for work and another entire wardrobe for their off-hours, but the pandemic changed that. Buying clothes that work whether you’re on the clock or not is a budget-friendly way to expand your look possibilities. Some examples are a pair of sneakers that are comfy enough to walk around the block yet dressy enough for the conference room or a smart fleece that fits in at the office or the cafe.

4. Dress up, then branch out

Here’s one piece of advice that never goes out of style: start formal, then dress down as you get more comfortable with the situation. This can go for both individual employees and overall dress codes. It’s all about putting your best foot forward and then adjusting expectations as necessary. Start with business casual—dress shirts, slacks, skirts, blouses and dress shoes—and swap out more casual options as you learn what works best for your office.

5. Make it work

Clothes should always help with the job. For people who spend most of their time at desks or meeting rooms, that’s easy—garments just need to be comfortable to move around in and wear in a climate-controlled environment. Meanwhile, people who work in a kitchen need clothes that are easy to wash as well as cut and flame resistant, while people who work with heavy machinery should avoid loose garments that may catch. This is where asking workers for advice can save you a lot of headache. Find out what kinds of clothes they consider must-haves, and use that as your starting point.

Find your workwear fit with Walmart Business

If you’re looking to refresh your business wardrobe, you don’t have to spend a lot of time or money. You’ll find shoes, shirts, skirts, jackets, dresses and more all on Walmart Business. You’ll even unlock free shipping on orders over $35¹ with your free Walmart Business membership.

Looking to get more value for your work fashion, office supplies and beyond? Upgrade to Walmart Business+ and you’ll unlock free delivery from your local store with a $35 minimum² and start earning 2% in Walmart Business Rewards on orders $250 or more.³ Sign up today!

¹ Excludes most Marketplace items, freight and certain location surcharges.

² Restrictions apply. 

³ Rewards can only be used toward future purchases on Walmart Business. Additional terms apply.