How To Write a Dress Code Policy: Templates from Casual to Business Formal
Establishing a dress code policy might not be the flashiest task on your HR checklist, but it can shape how your team shows up—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re managing a startup where hoodies rule or a corporate office that leans buttoned-up, having clear guidelines keeps expectations consistent and professional.
It’s not about micromanaging wardrobes; it’s about aligning presentation with purpose. From minimizing confusion to reinforcing company culture, a solid dress code policy helps teams walk into work already in step with your brand. This guide covers everything from casual to business formal and highlights how business uniforms can help achieve your goals.
Why a Dress Code Policy Matters
A dress code policy outlines what employees can and can’t wear and shapes how your organization is perceived from the inside out. It reinforces a shared sense of purpose, eliminates confusion, and sets the tone for professionalism across roles, departments, and locations. Whatever your work environment, a clearly written workplace dress code supports consistency without requiring constant intervention from HR or management.
It’s also a safeguard. A documented dress code policy helps protect the company from claims of unfair treatment by setting clear expectations for everyone. It provides a framework for handling violations while minimizing subjectivity or misinterpretation and helps staff members understand how to dress on the first day of work. That clarity pays off—especially as hybrid work, generational shifts, and evolving norms continue to push the boundaries of traditional workplace attire.
More than anything, a policy gives employees direction. When teams understand the difference between casual Friday and business dress code expectations for a board meeting, it minimizes friction and makes the day run smoother.
Core Elements Every Office Dress Code Should Include
If an office dress code leaves too much up for interpretation, it stops being useful. From a brand-new statement to a revision of an existing policy, the goal is the same: set expectations that are clear, reasonable, and aligned with how your organization operates.
1. State the Purpose
Spell out why the dress code exists in the first place. Maybe it’s to present a consistent image to clients, meet safety requirements, or reinforce company culture. Whatever the reason, this intro sets the tone and gives the policy context.
2. Define Who It Applies To
Different roles may call for different standards. A customer-facing team might need to dress differently than remote staff or warehouse crews. Break it down by setting, department, or job type so no one’s left guessing.
3. Clarify the Categories
Terms like business casual and smart casual can mean wildly different things depending on who you ask. Take time to define each category, and give real examples. It saves everyone a lot of second-guessing—and keeps HR from playing fashion police.
4. List What’s Off-Limits
Make sure it’s clear what won’t work. This could include anything from graphic tees with offensive language to ripped jeans or open-toed shoes in areas with safety concerns. Being upfront helps prevent awkward conversations later.
5. Note the Exceptions
Good policies account for real life. Leave room for religious attire, accessibility needs, and gender expression. It shows you’re thinking about people, not just dress codes.
6. Explain How It’s Enforced
Outline how the policy will be rolled out, what kind of follow-up to expect, and how violations will be handled. Consistent enforcement keeps things fair and keeps HR out of the weeds.
A clear, balanced office dress code policy doesn’t have to be complicated. But it does need to be specific enough to work—and flexible enough to hold up in the real world.
Match the Business Dress Code to Your Company Culture
There’s no universal standard for what people should wear to work—and that’s exactly why your business dress code needs to reflect your company’s identity. A law firm and a creative agency can both have polished teams, but they’re not showing up in the same outfits. The key is to set expectations that align with how your organization presents itself, internally and externally.
Start by considering your industry norms, client expectations, and the day-to-day realities of your team. If your business leans formal, your dress code should back that up. If it’s more relaxed, that should come through in the policy—without losing sight of professionalism.
Keep consistency in mind. If your branding is sharp and your client interactions are polished, but your policy is vague or overly relaxed, it sends mixed messages. The right office dress code should feel like a natural extension of how your company operates—not an afterthought.
It’s also worth checking in periodically. As your business grows, shifts remote, or changes leadership, your workplace dress code might need to change with it. A policy that made sense five years ago might be overdue for an update—especially as hybrid schedules and generational expectations continue to reshape what “professional” looks like.
Workplace Dress Code Policy Examples
Not all dress codes carry the same expectations, and not all companies need the same level of formality. The best dress code policy makes room for your team to look appropriate without overreaching into personal style. Below are five workplace dress code policy examples, complete with sample language to help you set expectations that are easy to follow and harder to misinterpret.
Casual
Casual dress codes are a good fit for laid-back workplaces—creative agencies, startups, or anywhere a suit would feel out of place. It’s a dress code that matches your vibe.
Sample Policy Language
Jeans, T-shirts, casual tops, and sneakers are fine. Clothes should be clean, in good shape, and appropriate for a shared space. Anything with offensive text or images is off-limits.
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Casual Dress Code Policy Template
Here’s an example of an office dress code for a company that leans casual. Feel free to edit this template to mold the wording and key points in a way that suits your company voice and values.
Policy Overview
Our casual dress code is designed to provide a comfortable environment that encourages creativity and productivity while maintaining a professional appearance suitable for our work setting.
Acceptable Attire
- Jeans and Pants: Jeans, khakis, and other casual pants are acceptable. All pants should be free of holes, tears, or fraying.
- Tops: T-shirts, casual blouses, and polo shirts are allowed. All tops should be clean and free from offensive graphics or slogans.
- Footwear: Sneakers, loafers, and other casual shoes are acceptable. Footwear should be in good repair and suitable for a professional environment.
- Layering: Sweaters, cardigans, and casual jackets can be worn for comfort in varying office temperatures.
Unacceptable Attire
The following items are not appropriate for our workplace:
- Clothing with explicit graphics, offensive language, or advertising for adult content or alcohol.
- Athletic wear such as gym shorts, yoga pants, and sweatpants.
- Beachwear including flip flops, tank tops, and shorts.
- Any attire that is excessively worn, torn, or ill-fitting.
Special Circumstances
- Casual Fridays: Every Friday, employees are welcome to wear more relaxed attire, but the guidelines for cleanliness and appropriateness still apply.
- Client Meetings: If you have a scheduled meeting with a client, business casual attire is required to maintain a professional image.
Enforcement
Compliance with the casual dress code is important for maintaining a professional environment. Employees who fail to meet dress code standards will be asked to correct their attire. Repeated violations may result in disciplinary action.
Business casual
This approach is a widely adopted middle ground—professional, but not overly formal. Think tailored without the tie.
Sample Policy Language
Acceptable clothing includes dress pants, chinos, collared shirts, sweaters, skirts, and closed-toe shoes. Jeans, athletic wear, and graphic tees are not considered business casual unless otherwise noted (e.g., dress-down days).
Learn More
Refer to our blog on Outfits to Wear on Dress Down Days to keep things polished on casual Fridays
Business Casual Dress Code Policy Template
A business casual dress code combines the professionalism of business attire with the comfort of casual wear, providing a perfect balance for daily office life. Here’s how to write a dress code policy for a business casual workplace:
Policy Overview
Our business casual dress code is designed so that all employees present themselves in a professional manner while enjoying the comfort and flexibility of more relaxed clothing. This dress code is applicable during regular office hours and at company-sponsored events, unless otherwise specified.
Acceptable Attire
- Pants and Skirts: Dress pants, chinos, and skirts should be well-fitting and free from tears or excessive wear. Skirts should be of modest length, no shorter than just above the knee.
- Tops: Collared shirts, dress shirts, blouses, and sweaters are suitable. These should be free from logos, offensive designs, or overly bright patterns.
- Footwear: Closed-toe shoes such as loafers, dress shoes, flats, or boots are required. Footwear should be in good condition and suitable for a professional environment.
- Layering Pieces: Blazers, cardigans, and jackets can be used for layering and should coordinate with the rest of the attire.
Unacceptable Attire
Items not permitted under the business casual dress code include:
- Jeans and Denim: Only clean, dark-washed jeans without rips or embellishments are acceptable, and only on designated dress-down days.
- Athletic Wear: Sweatpants, sports shoes, and other athletic gear are not suitable.
- Casual T-shirts: Graphic tees and casual shirts are not appropriate. Polo shirts are acceptable if they are solid-colored and free from logos.
- Revealing Clothing: Tank tops, crop tops, and clothing made from see-through materials are not allowed.
Enforcement
Compliance with the business casual dress code is essential for maintaining a professional image. Violations of the dress code will be addressed by HR, and repeated non-compliance may lead to disciplinary actions. It is important that employees adhere to these guidelines to ensure a uniform standard of dress within our professional setting.
Special Circumstances
- Casual Fridays: On Fridays, more relaxed attire is permitted, including clean and presentable jeans. Detailed guidelines for Casual Fridays are available on our internal HR portal.
- Client Meetings: For external meetings or when meeting with clients, business formal attire may be required depending on the nature of the interaction.
Smart Casual
A slightly more updated version of business casual, this is often used for customer-facing roles or events that call for a sharper appearance without going full formal.
Sample Policy Language
Smart casual attire includes blazers, button-down shirts, dressy blouses, tailored pants, midi skirts, and clean, polished shoes. Denim may be permitted if dark-washed and free of rips or distressing.
Learn More
Explore the benefits of corporate identity uniform programs.
Smart Casual Dress Code Policy
This dress code bridges the gap between casual comfort and the need to present a polished, professional image. Below you will find a dress code template that covers this for employees in clear language.
Policy Overview
Our smart casual dress code is designed to offer a balanced approach, suitable for interacting with clients, attending business lunches, or everyday office wear in a more dynamic environment. This code ensures that employees look well-put-together and approachable without the formality of a full business dress code.
Acceptable Attire
- Tops: Button-down shirts, stylish blouses, and polo shirts that are neat and pressed. Subtle patterns and colors are encouraged to convey a more approachable yet professional look.
- Bottoms: Tailored pants, midi skirts, and chinos are ideal. All items should be free from wear and tear, fitting properly without being too tight or too loose.
- Blazers and Jackets: Blazers or sports coats are recommended to enhance the smart casual look, particularly in meetings or when customer interaction is expected.
- Footwear: Shoes should be polished and in good repair. Acceptable footwear includes loafers, oxfords, stylish flats, or conservative heels.
- Denim: Dark-washed jeans may be allowed, provided they are well-fitting and free from any distressing or embellishments.
Unacceptable Attire
Items that do not meet the smart casual standard include:
- Casual T-shirts: Graphic tees or casual wear shirts are too informal.
- Athletic Gear: Including sneakers (except clean, minimalist styles), track jackets, or leggings.
- Excessively Casual Footwear: Such as flip-flops, sandals, or overly worn shoes.
- Overly Casual Accessories: Large, distracting jewelry or hats should be avoided.
Enforcement
Adherence to the smart casual dress code is important for maintaining our company’s image, especially in roles that involve frequent client interaction. Non-compliance will be addressed by the HR department, and continuous disregard for the dress code may result in disciplinary action.
Dress Code Flexibility
- External Meetings: Employees are expected to adapt their attire to match the formality level of the meeting or event they are attending. When in doubt, opting for a slightly more formal option is advised.
- Seasonal Variations: Seasonal adjustments are permissible, such as lighter fabrics and colors in summer, or layering with tasteful outerwear during colder months.
Business Formal
This style is reserved for leadership, high-stakes meetings, or industries where a high level of polish is non-negotiable (legal, finance, etc.).
Sample Policy Language
Business formal attire includes suits, blazers, dress shirts, ties, dress shoes, skirts, and dresses that meet a professional length and fit standard. Casual wear—including denim, sneakers, and T-shirts—is not permitted.
Learn More
Discover how to dress to impress for conferences.
Business Formal Dress Code Policy Template
When deciding how to write a dress code policy for a business formal workplace, it’s crucial to specify clear guidelines that reflect the company’s values and professional standards. Here’s an example template:
Policy Overview
The business formal dress code is the standard for daily attire in roles that involve high levels of client interaction, leadership representation, or when attending formal corporate events. This code is designed to reflect professionalism and a serious work ethic, essential for our company’s reputation and success.
Acceptable Attire
- Suits and Blazers: Well-tailored suits and blazers are required. Colors should generally be conservative, such as black, navy, gray, or other neutral tones.
- Shirts and Blouses: Dress shirts and blouses should be pressed and neat. Acceptable colors are typically white, light blue, or other mild pastel tones that maintain professionalism.
- Bottoms: Dress pants or professional skirts that are of appropriate length, no shorter than just above the knee. Fabrics should be of high quality to maintain a crisp appearance.
- Dresses: Professional dresses that are tailored and of knee-length. Sheath dresses or similar styles are preferred.
- Ties: Ties are expected for men and should coordinate well with the overall outfit without being overly flashy.
- Footwear: Dress shoes should be polished, with closed toes and heels. Men should wear oxford, derby, or similar styles, while women can wear closed-toe heels or flats.
Unacceptable Attire
The following items are not appropriate for our workplace under the business formal dress code:
- Casual Wear: Including denim jeans, sneakers, T-shirts, or any form of casual or athletic attire.
- Overly Bright Colors: Flashy colors and large, distracting patterns are not suitable for business formal attire.
- Informal Footwear: Such as sandals, loafers, or any shoe that detracts from the formality of the outfit.
Enforcement
Compliance with the business formal dress code is critical, especially as this attire reflects on our company’s image. Employees who fail to comply with the dress code will be subject to review and may be asked to return home to change. Repeated violations will lead to disciplinary actions.
Special Occasions
- Client Meetings and Presentations: When meeting with clients or presenting at significant events, strict adherence to the business formal dress code is mandatory.
- Conferences and External Events: Employees representing our company at external events must adhere to this dress code to maintain the professionalism expected by our clients and partners.
Hybrid or Remote Work
Even off-site, presentation matters—especially for video calls, client meetings, or virtual conferences.
Sample Policy Language
Employees working remotely are expected to maintain a neat appearance during video meetings. While casual attire is acceptable off-camera, camera-on interactions should reflect the same level of professionalism expected in the office. Branded company apparel is encouraged for virtual events.
Learn more
Check out our blog on dressing up for virtual meetings for simple ways to maintain a professional presence from home.
Hybrid or Remote Work Dress Code Policy Template
A hybrid and remote work dress code assists employees in maintaining a professional appearance, aligning with your company’s standards even when working from the comfort of their own homes. Take a look at the example below.
Policy Overview
This dress code applies to all employees who work remotely, whether full-time or part-time, ensuring consistency and professionalism in all visual communications, including video conferences and virtual client meetings.
Acceptable Attire
- Video Meetings: Employees are expected to wear business casual attire for all video interactions. This includes clean and well-maintained blouses, shirts, and tops. Neat grooming is expected.
- Visibility on Camera: Anything visible to the camera during meetings should be tidy and professional. This includes the background and any apparel worn.
- Branded Apparel: For virtual events or client-facing video calls, wearing branded company apparel is encouraged to promote a unified team appearance.
Unacceptable Attire
While working remotely, the following are considered inappropriate during video meetings:
- Casual T-shirts and Tops: Any informal wear, such as graphic tees or tank tops, unless covered by a suitable top layer.
- Loungewear: Pajamas, bathrobes, or overly casual attire are not suitable for video appearances.
- Distracting Elements: Avoid overly bright colors or patterns that can be distracting on camera.
Enforcement
Employees are expected to adhere to these guidelines during all video interactions. Non-compliance may be addressed during performance reviews or one-on-one meetings with management. Continual disregard for the dress code may result in corrective actions.
Tips for Remote Work Attire
- Comfort vs. Professionalism: Choose attire that is comfortable yet professional enough to be ready for an impromptu video call.
- Preparedness: Keep a business-appropriate top nearby your workspace to quickly change into for unexpected calls.
Communicate and Enforce the Dress Code Policy
Even the best-written dress code policy won’t do much if no one reads it—or if it’s enforced unevenly. Once the policy is in place, the next step is making sure your team understands it, knows where to find it, and sees that it’s being applied consistently across the board.
Start by choosing how you’ll roll it out:
- Will it be part of onboarding?
- Shared in a company-wide email?
- Walked through in team meetings?
However you present it, the key is clarity. Let people ask questions. Get feedback. Make sure managers are aligned on how to interpret and uphold the policy.
It also helps to point out what’s not changing—especially if you’re updating an older version. When expectations shift, it’s worth explaining why: new client standards, workplace culture changes, or simply the need for more consistency.
On the enforcement side, keep things straightforward. If someone isn’t meeting expectations, address it privately and professionally. First offenses usually don’t need more than a quick conversation. Repeated issues may need to follow your broader HR process—but even then, it’s about reinforcing standards, not writing people up for wearing the wrong shoes.
Whatever your tone—strict, flexible, or somewhere in between—your office dress code only works if it’s applied fairly. Uneven enforcement kills credibility. A good policy leaves less room for gray areas and fewer surprises for your team.
Outfit Your Team Without the Headache
Need help bringing your dress code policy to life? Lands’ End Outfitters makes it easy to outfit your team with professional, brand-appropriate apparel that fits the standards you’ve set—whether that’s polos, blazers, or full uniform programs. From bulk ordering to custom logos, we handle the details so you don’t have to. It’s one less thing for HR to chase down. Explore solutions that make your team look sharp and stay in tune with your dress code policy.
Connect with our experts to create a uniform program that enhances your employee branding and sets the right tone for your business.
Shop All Business UniformsFrequently Asked Questions
A clear dress code policy handles the edge cases before they become issues. Below are a few frequently asked questions that help round out the conversation, especially for teams navigating modern workplace dynamics.
Can employees wear branded apparel from other companies?
Generally, it's best to avoid logos or branding that promote other businesses, especially competitors. It can send mixed signals to clients and coworkers. Your policy can state that apparel with non-company branding should be minimal or not worn at all.
How should dress code policies address seasonal changes?
Outlining seasonal guidelines helps avoid guesswork. This might include relaxed summer dress expectations or warmer layers in winter. Just make sure any seasonal updates still align with your overall business dress code standards.
Are tattoos, piercings, or dyed hair addressed in dress codes?
If appearance policies go beyond clothing, they should be handled carefully and consistently. If your company allows visible tattoos, piercings, or nontraditional hair colors, say so. If there are restrictions, they should be tied to clear business reasons—not personal taste.
How often should dress code policies be updated?
Once a year is a good rule of thumb—more often if your business is growing quickly, changing direction, or hiring across new locations. Regular reviews help you stay ahead of shifting norms and keep the policy relevant. Updates should always be communicated clearly to the entire team.