Employee Dress Code Policy Template & FAQs

A dress code policy sets expectations and includes guidelines for how employees should dress at work.

This dress code policy template serves as a starting point to create one for your company. Customize and modify it to meet your specific needs.

Purpose of policy

The dress code policy at [company name] aims to define how employees should dress at work and ensure a consistent and professional appearance for employees. As employees represent the company, how we dress shapes the impression of our company and our culture.

Policy scope

This policy applies to [all employees within our company/positions/teams].

Policy guidelines

• Employees are expected to wear [casual, business casual, smart casual, business] attire, unless specific tasks require a different dress code.
• Employees are expected to be well-groomed and wear clean clothing without any visible signs of wear, such as holes or tears.
• Employees should wear clothes suitable for the work environment. Clothes commonly associated with workouts or outdoor activities are not permitted.
• Religious or ethnic grooming styles are respected and not restricted.
• Clothes that are overly revealing, offensive, or inappropriate are not allowed.

Business dress code

The business dress code of our company is [business/business casual/smart casual/casual].

In special cases, we may change the dress code. For instance, we might request employees to dress in semi-formal clothes for a specific event. In such cases, both male and female employees are expected to wear suits, ties, white shirts, and appropriate shoes.

The dress code expectations can also vary based on an employee’s position. Those who frequently interact with clients or prospects should adhere to a business dress code.

Disciplinary consequences

• If an employee doesn’t follow the dress code, managers or supervisors will inform the employee and issue a reprimand.
• Employees who violate the dress code are expected to comply with the dress code immediately, which may involve changing their clothes.
• Repeated violations or serious violations that cause irreparable damage may lead to disciplinary action, ranging from warnings to termination of employment.

Disclaimer: This dress code policy template provides general guidelines and should be used as a reference. It is not a legal document and may not cover all local, state, or federal laws. The author and Camelo do not assume any legal liability resulting from the use of this policy. For compliance with relevant laws, consider seeking advice from legal professionals.

You can also download the dress code policy template here.

FAQs about dress code policy

What should be included in a dress code policy?

• The general dress code and business dress code
• Exceptions for when employees should follow a different dress code
• Disciplinary consequences
• Who employees can reach out to if they have concerns about the dress code

Why is a dress code policy important in the workplace?

A dress code policy establishes a professional and consistent image when interacting with clients and partners, fosters unity among employees, and promotes fairness.

What is considered an appropriate dress code for the workplace?

The appropriate dress code depends on each organization, its culture, and its environment. Not all businesses require formal clothing, but employees are expected to maintain a clean and appropriate appearance.

What is a dress code policy memo?

A dress code policy memo is a document that outlines the dress code guidelines for employees in a company. It can provide information on appropriate attire and expectations for maintaining a professional appearance in the workplace.

What are the four types of dress codes in the workplace?

The four types of dress codes often used in the workplace are casual, business casual, smart casual, business.

What is casual dress code?

Casual dress code refers to a relaxed style. It may include jeans and T-shirts, provided they are clean and in good condition.

What is business casual dress code?

Business casual attire may include collared polo/knit shirts, long-sleeved button-down shirts, khaki or cotton pants or skirts with a hem past the knee, sweaters, and cardigans. Neatly pressed pants and shirts, relaxed shoes but sandals are expected.

What is smart casual dress code?

Smart casual typically involves a pair of slacks or nice jeans with a button-up shirt and leather shoes. This dress code generally excludes T-shirts, shorts, worn jeans, and sandals.

What is business dress code?

Business dress code for men typically includes a shirt, tie, jacket, and dress shoes. For women, it may involve a skirt or pants suit with closed-toe heels. All clothing should be clean and pressed.

Can you get fired for breaking the dress code?

Yes. Depending on each company’s policy, an employee can be fired for violating the dress code.

Can an employer change the dress code?

Yes, employers have the authority to make reasonable changes to the dress code as needed.

What should you not wear to the workplace?

In general, items such as backless tops, revealing skirts or dresses, or yoga pants are considered inappropriate for the workplace. However, specific dress code policies vary among companies.

Are dress codes legal?

Dress codes are legal as long as they do not enforce demeaning or provocative dress requirements. If a company has a dress code, it must be applied fairly to all employees.