Document Type

Article

Publication Date

2001

Abstract

This study had two primary goals: to develop a questionnaire that can be used to determine what types and categories of attire are acceptable in today’s work environment for men and women and to provide a preliminary test of whether these policies impact work attitudes and behavior. Because of the lack of past theory and research to guide the project, human resource professionals were interviewed to help generate ideas for questionnaire design. Once developed, this questionnaire was completed by 95 students, most of whom worked full- or part-time. Analyses revealed that there are clear trends and categories that can be identified in determining acceptable attire for dress policies, and that these may differ for men and women. Further, the results suggest that business casual dress policies may have no impact on employee behavior and only minor impact on attitudes. Implications for dress code policies are discussed.

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