Written by
Raja Abbas
Reviewed by
Table of Contents
What Are Dress Code Policies?
A dress code policy is a guideline established by a business to define and outline the acceptable clothing and grooming standards for their employees. Dress code policies are malleable and vary across different industries to reflect the image and expectations of the business. Dress codes define the overall standards and of what is acceptable to wear during working hours. This article will explore key components of dress code policies to consider when developing a code, alongside other aspects to consider such as legal requirements and exemptions.
Key Components of A Dress Code Policy
Purpose & Objectives
Dress code policies should outline the purpose and objectives of their dress code policy. Whilst it is likely businesses will simply state the purpose is to ‘maintain professionalism’, this section enables businesses to express any other purposes for their dress code such as aligning with the business’s style & aesthetic, core values and the desired appearance when engaging with customers.
General Dress Standards
This section of the dress code policy will state the general dress standards expected within the business. This includes the types of clothes accepted and the general attire expected by employees (casual, business casual, business attire) and specific items of clothing that should be worn.
Grooming & Personal Hygiene
Dress code policies are not solely limited to the items of clothing that can be worn. These policies also outline the general grooming and personal hygiene standards expected of employees. The standards include the guidelines expected for cleanliness, hairstyle and facial hair.
Uniforms or Company Attire
For businesses who expect their employees to wear uniforms, a section explaining that uniforms are required should be provided. This section will also include how employees can obtain their uniforms and the potential procedures needed to take if new uniforms are needed.
Occasional or Themed Days
Dress code policies will also address whether the business allows or encourages occasional or themed days. This includes the guidelines for days where the expectations and attires are more relaxed.
Disciplinary Consequences
Dress code policies will also state the disciplinary consequences for employees who do not abide by the dress code. It is likely this section will state employees are expected to realign their clothing with the expectations when the code is violated.
When constructing a dress code policy for your business, it is recommended seeking legal advice or using a template to ensure the policy adheres to legal requirements and is not lacking specificity.
Get a free legal document when you sign up to Lawpath
Sign up for one of our legal plans or get started for free today.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Dress Code Policies
Dress code policies should be made accessible for all employees in a business. With that said, there are important aspects to consider when developing a dress code policy.
Reviews and Updates
It is important to regularly review and update your business’s dress code policy to align with the changing values of society and company culture. Businesses can better their dress code policy through asking employees their satisfaction with the current dress code policy and through research.
Safety and Industry Specific Requirements
It is important to contextualise your business’s dress code through assessing the safety and industry specific requirements. Industries could require specific materials, shoes or safety hazard items. It is vital businesses state whether employees must wear these, and the specific activities which require them.
Legal Requirements, Exemptions & Applicability With Dress Code Policies
In response to the growing diversity in workplaces, it is important your business’s dress code addresses these changing standards.
Employees With Disabilities
Catering to employees who have disabilities is a legal requirement under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (Cth). This obligation extends to the dress code as well. Ensuring your dress code policy is also accessible to those who are disabled a legal requirement.
Diversity & Religious Exemptions
Some employees may be required to break or modify the dress code to align with their religion or racial background. It is important for businesses to not exclude the possibility of employees to work whilst wearing items of clothing associated with their faith.
Standards for Remote Workers/Working From Home
In response to the rise of working from home and remote workers, businesses should consider the dress code expectations for those who are working outside of the office.
Company Culture
A business’s dress code is also a direct reflection of the company culture. It is important for business owners to ensure their dress code aligns with the culture of the company.
Conclusion
In conclusion, dress code policies serve as guidelines for employees and are set by businesses to reflect their company values and expectations desired from their employees. There are various aspects to consider when developing a dress code such as the general dress standards and disciplinary consequences. Furthermore, there are mistakes businesses should avoid making such as failing to consider those with a disability and not updating the code to align with changing values. Dress codes are ultimately a reflection of company culture and in response, the policy should be thoroughly considered.
Get a fixed-fee quote from Australia's largest lawyer marketplace.
