by Tony Balthazar

Created on: June 16, 2010

In the summertime, dress tends to be more casual for most people. Those of us who go to an office every day do have to be concerned about what summer office attire might be considered taboo. Of course, the first place you should find out about this is from your employee handbook.  It is safe to assume that the following will nearly always be considered "taboo" in any office setting:

A) Revealing shirts - Regardless of the time of year, revealing clothing should be avoided in the office. Ladies should avoid plunging necklines and men should of course wear appropriate shirts for their offices and avoid such things as muscle shirts.  The popular "belly" shirts and halter tops should also be avoided (ladies of course).

B) Flip Flops - Footwear is another consideration during the summer.  Avoid wearing flip flops to work as they are inappropriate in an office.  Consider that a simple accident of a binder slipping off a desk and landing on your foot could cause damage and result in a problem.  Check your employee handbook as some companies also forbid other types of open toed footwear (for men and women).  Some offices may also forbid wearing the popular "Croc" style shoes which have grown in popularity.

C) Shorts - Unless it is specifically allowed by your company dress code, shorts are nearly always considered taboo summer office attire.  Shorts are always considered unprofessional as well and send the wrong message to clients who are coming to your office. Ladies are often requested to not wear skorts as well (the shorts with a skirt over them).

D) Beach wear - It may seem to go without saying but anything that you would consider wearing to the beach would be taboo summer office attire.  This would clearly be unprofessional and would raise several concerns.

E) Capri Pants - Some office policies include the restriction of capri pants for ladies. Many feel these are taboo office attire at any time of year.  Before you decide to show up at work in capri pants make sure you find out if they are allowed.

Summary

While summer may mean more casual and lighter weight clothing, oftentimes offices have specific requirements that both ladies and gentlemen must adhere to when they are at work. Check your employees manual to determine what your company policies are. You may be surprised to find out what clothing falls into the category of taboo summer office attire.

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