The Don't of Office Casual

At Be Better Guys, we’ve danced around this issue for a number of years. We’ve spoken on it indirectly, but I feel like during this time of year it really needs to be said, so here it goes. Just because it’s summertime (rather, approaching the end of summer), doesn’t mean you dress like you’re on vacation everyday. I’ve seen it at my office and on people walking down the street in downtown DC, obviously headed to an office. It’s still work, regardless of the heat.

I work in an office where “appropriate attire” is at best left to a broad interpretation. By anyone’s standards there, I’m overdressed most days. And considering how hot and muggy it gets, I’m not asking anyone to wear a shirt and tie, just look some what professional.

This is to the guy who decided to wear his Hawaiian shirt collection for the whole summer, with his Mephisto sandals. You’re wrong, I don’t care what office you work in. If Jimmy Buffet isn’t playing at 4 in the coffee room, save it for Saturday, or the summer work party.

Ladies, if the buttons are straining on your blouse to the point of bursting, don't wear it to work. Unless, of course, you like every guy in the workplace gawking at your cleavage. Men, this goes doubly for you. No chest hair at the job. (Below, courtesy of Style Is 20/20)

For the ladies with the baby doll tanks and short, snug skirts: if I can find you at the club wearing this, it shouldn’t be in your office wardrobe.

Fellas, being a fan of the home team is a good thing. Wearing the jersey of a favorite player to the office (especially the back-up QB) to the office is never OK. In fact, outside of an actual game or your living room, it's questionable, if not out and out wrong.

Lastly fellas, shorts should never be worn to work. My legs are fine, but if I'm not in the gym or at an office event out doors, no one needs to see them, especially not on a Tuesday. Please don't let me start (again) about flip-flops

Look, in a professional environment, you want to be taken seriously. If you don't own the business or aren't a super senior executive, your appearance will be judged. Which means you're being judged. You can be casual, comfortable, and professional. Just take a moment and think about viable alternative -- polos and dress pants, short sleeved button front shirts without hula girls, etc. Let your work to the talking and remove impediments to showing what you do well. You'll thank me later.