The stigma of hoodies and the workplace dress code has evolved. Once upon a time, suits, button-down shirts, and sports coats were the only acceptable attire for a professional environment, but not anymore. As the workplace has evolved to a more casual environment, so have the clothes that employees wear. Once only worn while lounging, running errands, or working out, hoodies have become a staple in modern-day workplaces.
Hoodies And Workplace Dress Code: What’s Acceptable?
Whether you’re a CEO, a manager, or a teacher, if you want to be comfy yet still look professional, below, we’ll take a look at hoodies in the workplace, including when and where they’re acceptable, and how to style this business casual attire.
When is Wearing a Hoodie to Work Acceptable?
In the 21st century, hoodies have become acceptable for both men and women to wear in a variety of business environments. However, that doesn’t mean that they are always appropriate to wear to work.
Here are examples of times and workplaces when one can safely wear hoodies.
Tech Sector
In the tech sector, hoodies are a uniform, of sorts. Companies in this industry support individuality and encourage staff to express themselves. Given that hoodies are staple pieces in modern wardrobes, it makes sense that they’re also popular in the tech sector.
Creative arts
Like the tech industry, professions that fall under the creative arts category also encourage individuality, making hoodies acceptable work attire for professionals in this field.
Casual Fridays
Many office settings in various fields celebrate Casual Fridays. To celebrate the final day of the workweek, many companies allow their employees to follow a casual dress code with relaxed formal standards. Hoodies aren’t always the best option for Casual Fridays but if your workplace has a much more relaxed dress code, then consider this comfortable option.
Remote Work
Thanks to advances in technology, professionals in various industries are now working remotely. This means that you can work from home, the park, a coffee shop, while you’re traveling, or anywhere else that has access to the internet.
Since individuals who work remotely aren’t in the traditional office setting, they’re more inclined to dress casually. Hoodies are acceptable for remote work but do keep in mind that if your job involves video meetings, you’ll want to maintain a professional appearance, so be sure to choose hoodies that are clean and presentable.
Small Business
In a small business setting, wearing a hoodie can be acceptable in environments that prioritize comfort and productivity. If your workplace fosters a casual atmosphere, such as in creative industries or tech startups, hoodies may fit right in. However, it’s essential to consider client interactions and brand image—some businesses may prefer a more polished appearance. Ultimately, clear communication of dress code expectations ensures everyone is on the same page regarding attire.
Tips for Hoodies in the Workplace
While various workplaces have accepted this type of casual wear, it’s important to maintain a degree of professionalism. When wearing a hoodie at work, keep the following tips in mind:
- Select appropriate hoodies: For example, opt for well-fitted hoodies in a solid color or a subtle print. Avoid baggy or tattered hoodies in bold, busy prints.
- Match your hoodie with dress pants and or dress shoes: This could include tailored khakis, slacks, or for ladies, a pencil skirt or dressy knee-length capris. Wearing jeans, sweatpants, yoga pants, baseball caps, and athletic shorts will likely face disapproval.
- Pair your hoodie with proper footwear: Skip gym shoes, flip-flops, or any other type of overly casual shoe.
Hoodies And Workplace Dress Code
Hoodies, once relegated to casual settings, have undergone a significant shift in perception and acceptability within the workplace. Previously seen as overly informal, they are now widely accepted, particularly during designated Casual Fridays in many office settings across different industries.
However, while their acceptance has grown, maintaining a sense of professionalism remains crucial. Striking a balance between comfort and appropriateness is key, as hoodies continue to evolve from merely cozy outerwear to versatile garments suitable for the modern workplace. With the tips mentioned above, you can be comfy and look presentable for work.
Hoodies at Work: FAQ
Is it okay to wear a formal suit with a hoodie to work?
The acceptability of wearing a formal suit with a hoodie to work largely depends on the workplace culture and the specific dress code policies in place. In some creative or tech-focused environments, such as certain startups or design firms, this kind of attire might be more acceptable or even encouraged as a way to blend formal and casual elements. However, in more traditional or corporate settings, wearing a hoodie with a formal suit might not be appropriate and could be seen as too casual or unprofessional. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and adhere to the dress code expectations of your workplace. If you’re unsure, it’s worth checking with HR or observing what others in similar roles are wearing.
If I perform construction work can I wear a hoodie on the job?
Wearing a heavy-duty hoodie while performing construction work might not be the most practical choice, depending on the specific circumstances of the job. Construction sites often involve physical labor, exposure to various weather conditions, and potential hazards, so it’s important to prioritize safety and comfort in your clothing choices.
However, if you’re working in a less hazardous environment within the construction industry, such as in a design office or doing administrative work for a construction company, wearing a hoodie might be acceptable as long as it aligns with the overall dress code policies of the workplace.
Retro Shirtz Custom Bulk T-Shirts Printing near Regency inside Westroads Mall in Omaha
At Retro Shirtz we understand the importance of logo design. So we provide free graphic design, including free logo design with all standard custom shirt orders.
Our free graphic design services include:
- suggesting and implementing fonts
- changing the colors and layout of the fonts, and our team’s excellent skills at creating custom image assets.