Friday, June 06, 2008

Business Casual, Casual-Casual, WAY TOO Casual

from the mom

TIME just did an article on defining "business casual." Apparently, the new generation entering the work force is rubbing a few people the wrong way with their definitions. According to a Monster.com poll, only 55% think underwear (in its broadest sense) shouldn't be visible on the job. HUH?! I am in the majority on that one.

However, the author of the article is deeply disturbed by exposed toes and feels that shouldn't be part of business casual dress. I think it is possible flip-flops have gone too far, but there are some really nice ones out there. (I own a particularly nice pair and I would wear them to work.) I lived Virginia summers in sandals. However, I felt a little dangerously controversial doing it on the East Coast at a, uhm, rather conservative workplace. I used to tell myself that I was being true to my West Coast upbringing. (And perhaps working out a little rebellion at my surroundings.)

The article also states that 39% of American women haven't worn nylons in more than a year! YAY! I have a strict "only for weddings" rule when it comes to nylons. Weddings I am in. Tights are different; nylons are torture. And expensive. And I always rip them.

My definition of business casual is probably a little too casual. But at least I know it. And exposed underwear? Well, that would send me running to the bathroom in shame.

2 comments:

Missi said...

When I use to go to an office to work I liked the idea of getting all dressed up and looking professional, though I must admit I did wear a pair of lime green platform flip flops to work once. Hee, hee:) They had a bow on the top too. Not sure if that was appropriate, but I felt so happy all day long! lol

Rose said...

I still don't get how 45% of people could think it is appropriate to go to work with their underwear showing.