Over the past few years, the world of businesswear has seen some changes. The days of formal suits and ties have gradually given way to a new era marked by comfort and individual expression. This shift has been influenced by a combination of factors, including changing workplace cultures, the rise of remote work, and evolving ideas of professionalism.
According to a recent survey by YouGov, only 7% of people in the UK still wear suits or formal business wear to work. This statistic highlights the dramatic change in how we perceive and approach business attire. No longer confined to the boardroom, today’s business attire is more likely to be seen on Zoom calls, where the emphasis has shifted from formality to functionality.
The influence of remote work
The COVID-19 pandemic was a key moment in driving the transition towards more casual business wear. With millions of employees suddenly working from home, the traditional office dress code quickly became obsolete. Instead of wearing suits and heels, professionals found themselves in comfortable, yet presentable, clothing suitable for a virtual workspace.
The shift to remote work highlighted the need for attire that balances comfort and professionalism. As a result, many companies relaxed their dress codes on return to the office, allowing employees to wear more casual outfits that still convey a sense of professionalism.
Redefining professionalism
The move to remote work also prompted a reevaluation of what it means to be “professional.” Previously, professionalism was often equated with formal attire. However, the rise of video conferencing platforms like Zoom has shown that professionalism is more about attitude, communication, and performance than about what one wears.
This shift has empowered individuals to express their personal style while maintaining a professional demeanor. As a result, business attire has become more diverse, inclusive, and reflective of individual personalities.
Embracing business casual
The trend towards business casual attire started long before the pandemic, but it has gained significant momentum in recent years. Business casual, which typically includes items like chinos, polo shirts, and blouses, offers a middle ground between formal business wear and casual clothing.
This style of dress allows employees to feel comfortable while still looking polished and professional. It is particularly well-suited to modern work environments that value flexibility and adaptability. Business casual attire can be easily adjusted to suit different occasions, making it a versatile choice.
The role of branded casual wear
As companies continue to adapt to changing dress codes, many are turning to branded casual wear as a way to maintain a cohesive and professional image. Branded clothing, such as hoodies, custom t-shirts, and even caps, can help to reinforce company culture and identity.
Branded clothing from businesses such as Clothes2order helps create a unified look that can be especially beneficial for remote teams. When employees wear clothing with the company logo or colours, it reinforces their connection to their workplace, even when they are working from different locations.
Balancing casual and professional
One of the challenges of incorporating casual wear into business attire is finding the right balance between casual and professional. Companies can achieve this by selecting high-quality, stylish items that reflect their brand values. For example, a tech startup might opt for sleek, minimalist hoodies, while a creative agency might choose vibrant, artistic designs.
The future of business attire
- Flexibility and adaptability
The transformation of business attire is an ongoing process that reflects broader changes in the workplace. The ability to switch seamlessly between different levels of formality will be increasingly important. For instance, employees may need to dress more formally for certain client meetings or events, while maintaining a more casual style for everyday tasks. Companies that embrace this flexibility will be better positioned to attract and retain top talent, as they demonstrate a commitment to employee comfort and well-being.
The shift in business attire from boardrooms to Zoom calls represents a wider shift towards flexibility, comfort, and personal expression in the workplace. As traditional notions of professionalism evolve, companies have the opportunity to embrace new styles of business wear that reflect these values. By incorporating personalised and branded casual wear, businesses can create a cohesive and professional image while fostering a sense of individuality and belonging among employees.
This new era of business attire is not just about what we wear, but about how we work and connect with one another. As we move forward, the focus will be on creating inclusive, adaptable, and sustainable workplaces where employees can thrive both professionally and personally.
