Summer Shorts Debate Heats Up
As the summer heats up, the debate over shorts in the office is far from over, with companies and individuals navigating the complexities of workplace dress codes and what constitutes "smart" attire in a hot weather setting, with some embracing the comfort and practicality of shorts, while others raise concerns about dropping standards of dress.
As temperatures rise in the UK, the discussion over men wearing shorts to work is gaining momentum, with 66% of Britons now believing it's acceptable, up from 37% in 2016, sparking a renewed debate on workplace dress codes.
Experts suggest that context plays a significant role in determining what's acceptable, and stylists advise monitoring colleagues' attire to gauge whether shorts would be out of place. Even then, it's recommended to keep shorts formal and not too short. Companies like Accenture and PwC trust staff to make "appropriate decisions" about what to wear, while others, like Santander, have specific guidelines on casual and business dress.
Personal stylists Karina Taylor and Carmen Bellot emphasize that whether or not to wear shorts to work ultimately depends on the company culture and individual confidence. Some men, like Tony Hardy, CEO of Canny Creative, wear shorts to client meetings, while others, like Dave McPartlin, a primary school headteacher, find them comfortable and practical for everyday work. Next has released a pair of £20 Dark Wash Rigid Denim Shorts, which have received a 5.0-star rating on the Next website, with customers praising their flattering fit, comfort, and quality.
The debate on social media raises questions about what constitutes "smart" attire in a hot weather setting, with some arguing that shorts should be allowed, citing the lack of air conditioning in many offices, while others express concerns about dropping standards of dress. The issue of men's footwear, such as sandals and trainers, being too casual for shorts has also been raised, highlighting the complexities of workplace dress codes.
Ultimately, experts recommend being mindful of the company culture and dress code before deciding to wear shorts to work, as the acceptance of shorts in the office continues to be a grey area, with no clear consensus on what's acceptable and what's not.