by Lori Buttermark

Created on: April 22, 2010

Based on a true story

Thank God it’s Friday (TGIF).  There was a time when these words, along with morning coffee, put a smile on one's face – then it got even better. 

In the early 70’s, a prestigious bank in the Wall Street area circulated a memo from their corporate headquarters announcing the pantsuit as the official Friday “dress-down” attire for all female employees. Male employees were permitted to shed their ties and suit jackets; hence Casual Friday was created.    

Within the decade, a "jeans and sneakers" policy was approved, but restricted to Company executives’ with weekday business-related air travel, as well as employees working the day or, part of a day, following a holiday; otherwise, the corporate dress code remained in effect.    

As Casual Friday was monitored and continued to produce favorable results, jeans and sneakers were extended and officially deemed acceptable as Friday’s “dress-down” for all essential and non-essential employees. 

The one drawback ensued regarding Friday's clients and visitors. The options were weighed as follows: Arrive at the office in full corporate attire then change into the "dress-down” after the meeting or, arrive at the office in casual attire, but carry the business suit in a garment bag. 

When switching wardrobe became more of a hassle than the business meetings themselves, it was Management’s decision to invite and encourage all clients to partake of “Casual Friday”.

Responses were divided. Initially a few “old school” clients preferred that their representatives adhere to corporate attire, while a slightly larger percent of clients maintained their personal corporate image, but had no objection to their representatives enjoying the Friday freedom”.

All clients eventually accepted and enjoyed the Casual Friday policy. This new and relaxed concept actually enhanced business. High-end executives, including the President and Chairman, made their rounds sporting jeans ‘n’ sneakers; hence, the concept: “contented employees are productive employees”.

Dressing for certain interviews became problematic.  If the hiring firm had a casual dress code, the interview

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