Fashion/Style: Office dress code: A necessity?

So, you are going to the office in that sporty or skimpy attire, because you think it looks sexy and incredibly great on you! Why not consider differentiating from formal and informal wear? Whatever your view may be, it is by all standards significant for every office to have a dress code, not only as a way of promoting its corporate image, but to also make the staff be regarded as serious professionals. Here is a scenario which happens in most offices. Many people, especially the teenagers, often show up in sheer, low-cut, sleeveless blouses with micro-mini skirts and strappy sandals. “Going to the office in casual attire is disrespectful and totally unprofessional. I could care less how hot the weather maybe…but every office should have a dress code for a more corporate image,” says Jean Marie Musonera, an employee of Rwandatel. However, some young workers claim that these dress codes bore to tears and make them so uncomfortable. 23-year-old Andrew Agaba (who refused to reveal his work place), complains that he hates the working days, as he is obliged to wear suits. His dislike of suits, he claims, is that they do not fit him well because of his petite size. “You should see me when I’m dressed in a suit, I look like a scarecrow,” he moans. There is another concern besides one’s size, height or even appearance that can make one hate a particular dress code. For example if the company or institution prefers its workers to wear a uniform and so happens that its material is of poor equality and the design is outdated...many might be inclined to boycott wearing it. However, some offices do not restrict their staff to a dress code, which gives them a chance to dress according to their mood of the day. Jackson Murangira is a journalist with Umurabyo, a local vernacular newspaper. He says, “Office dress codes differ according to specialization. For example, media institutions can’t have a similar dress code with the health institutions.” Allen Rusaro, a secretary in a certain ministry, insists that it’s important to dress decently and professionally at work. “Anything that hugs the body too tightly is not right for the office,” Rusaro says. “Girls and women should avoid wearing clothes that make them look like a stuffed sausage,” she cautions. She also urges men to drop extremely tight pants that seize them between their thighs. A dress code should speak out what is and what is not appropriate for that company or institution. But it should be specific: For example, if you want to oblige workers to wear suits and neckties, you should specify how long they should be, and if you are banning causal wear, let it be included in the rules and regulations. Sandrine Uwingabire, a shop assistant, emphasises that being presentable is crucial, but it does not necessarily mean being a slave to the regulations. You may have to wear a suit, but you can choose the colour and designs that workout perfectly for you. It is also wise to have a collection of stylish outfits in the wardrobe and trendy shoes in the shoe-rack. And if you are going to wear your black suit dress, match it with a trendy white handbag and pair of heels. However, if you think it’s not a good idea for you to walk in heels and don’t want to learn, look for a dress that will look good with flat shoes. Contact: lindaonly2005@yahoo.com