Dress Code

Although dress codes have relaxed over the years, there are still rules and regulations in place with the idea of maintaining standards. No matter how smart and on trend Lewis Hamilton looks in the Guardian photo, it is said he was denied entry to the Royal Box at Wimbledon as he didn't comply with the strict dress code. 

When it comes to the workplace, employees should be made aware of the dress code and employers should have a policy in place. Some banking staff wear a uniform so that they can be easily identified by customers. Jewellery is usually banned in the workplace for health and safety reasons where machinery is used. 

When preparing a dress code policy, employers should take care not to discriminate on the grounds of sex, race, age, disability, religion or belief. It's about being reasonable. You may dislike tattoos but having a total ban on tattoos and body piercings could be considered unreasonable and outdated, especially if the employee doesn't have face to face contact with the public. It could also be seen as being discriminatory against those who have body art or body piercings for religious or belief reasons, for example, henna tattoos or nose rings.

You could choose to accept visible body art as long as it is not offensive or you may prefer to have body art covered. It depends on the professional image of the business. Either way, it is good to have a flexible approach.

Ever been invited to a formal black tie event where you are expected to wear a bow tie? If you're not keen on bow ties you could always try Marcel Marceau's trick and mime wearing a tie to get in. Please send us a photo if you do.