What does ‘workplace casual' really mean?

New research shows that most employees believe it’s OK to dress down in the summer. But men and women have different opinions on what constitutes acceptable workplace attire.

Almost three-quarters (74%) of employees think it’s acceptable for both men and women to dress “more casually” during the summer months, according to a recent study by Adecco Staffing US.

However, the study found a significant difference of opinion about whether certain clothing items were appropriate for the workplace.

For example, 76% of women said strapless tops or dresses were inappropriate for the workplace — compared to just 55% of men.

In addition, 80% felt that mini-skirts weren’t workplace-appropriate, whereas only 61% of men felt the same.

Men and women, however, did agree on the most inappropriate clothing item: 71% of all employees believe that flip flops aren’t appropriate for the workplace.