Did you know that the suit sales dropped eight percent between 2015 and 2019? But just because company clothing is more casual it doesn’t mean that dress codes are dead.

Maintaining clothing policies and company guidelines is important to productivity and professionalism. Are you a business owner looking for ways to enforce a dress code policy?

The following guide will explain several strategies to enforce company clothing rules. Read on to learn how to create visual uniformity within your office.

Creating A Company Policy

First, you must create a clear and consistent policy for employees to follow. Your company’s dress code needs to be carefully constructed without targeting any specific person or group.

The goal of your policy should be based on business-related issues. Examples include clothing for organization usage or to minimize safety risks.

Your policy can also include specific items that aren’t allowed like open-toed shoes. Make sure that all employees understand and sign the policy. Be open to any suggestions or concerns employees have about the dress code.

Enforcing The Policy

The best way to enforce a dress code is by carrying out the consequences of not following the policy. For example, if an employee disregards the policy they should have to meet with a supervisor.

It’s important to make sure employees that violate the policy understand the ramifications if it happens again.

Consider disciplinary action for repeated dress code violations. Companies usually suspend or terminate employees that blatantly disregard policies. 

Company Clothing Discrimination

You must enforce your policy equally to all employees. You might encounter legal issues involving discrimination if you don’t. For example, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission protects religious groups and genders.

Some employees might need to wear certain clothing for religious purposes. In that case, you must accommodate the worker so long it doesn’t negatively affect your business.

The Small Business Administration gives two examples of appropriate gender policy requirements. You can require men to wear ties but not women. You can’t allow men to wear jeans but not women.

You can always work with employees to find a middle ground within your policy. Consider moving employees to departments where the dress code isn’t as necessary. Of course, only do this if they truly can’t meet guidelines.

Staying Consistent

Employees and management both need to follow the same set of rules. It’s also important to prioritize fairness and understanding. Be prepared for unexpected circumstances and try to be flexible during enforcement. 

For example, an employee could lose their clothing in a fire or to theft. Make sure to be empathetic and supportive to employees in these situations.

Ready To Enforce Your Policy?

Now you know how to properly set and enforce a company clothing policy. Remember to make guidelines clear, stay consistent, and avoid discrimination. Follow this guide and set your dress code with confidence.

We hope you’ve found this article on clothing policies helpful. Please check out the rest of our site for more helpful business tips.