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The rise of hybrid work has blurred the lines between office attire and home comfort. Suits and heels are no longer the default for many professionals, while pajamas and gym clothes have become surprisingly common in home offices. For HR leaders, this raises an important question: how do you set dress code expectations that make sense in today’s flexible world of work?
Dress codes have always been tied to professionalism, company culture, and brand image. They influence how employees feel, how they are perceived by clients, and even how productive they are. Studies show that dressing smartly can make people feel more authoritative, decisive, and productive, while dressing comfortably can encourage creativity and honesty.
But hybrid work has shifted employee expectations. A survey of over 1,000 hybrid workers found that:
Generational differences are clear too. Millennials (86%) and Gen X (77%) are most likely to have adapted their work wardrobes, while Boomers are more divided (51%).
Without clear guidelines, hybrid dress codes can lead to confusion—or even embarrassing blunders. From employees forgetting their cameras are on while underdressed to overly casual appearances in client-facing calls, the lack of clarity can undermine professionalism and company reputation.
Equally, overly rigid policies risk alienating employees who value comfort and individuality. A one-size-fits-all approach is no longer realistic when staff move between client meetings, brainstorming sessions, and at-home deep work.
Hybrid employees are embracing new styles that mix professionalism with personal expression. Some of the most prominent trends include:
At the same time, employees report that while jeans (79%) and sneakers (78%) are widely accepted, gym clothes (58%), miniskirts (56%), and crop tops (54%) are generally considered inappropriate.
So, what should HR and leadership consider when designing policies for 2025?
Hybrid work has permanently reshaped the way employees dress for work. For HR leaders, the challenge is to strike the right balance—encouraging comfort and individuality while preserving professionalism and protecting company reputation.
A well-crafted hybrid dress code can do more than avoid mishaps on Zoom. It can support employee well-being, enhance company culture, and reinforce brand identity in a workplace that is both flexible and future-focused.
If you’d like to discuss how to update your company’s dress code policies, or overall working culture for the hybrid era, get in touch with us at hello@orgshakers.com.