The Best Uniforms for the Office

Two sailboats pass by a lighthouse on the coast.

Finding the right uniforms for your employees requires you to consider a variety of factors and prioritize which features are most important for the nature of their work. The good news is there is an endless array of options when it comes to customizing your company uniforms. Let’s take a look at what makes some of the best employee uniforms for an office setting.

Invest in the Right Material for Varying Temperatures

When picking out uniforms for your employees, consider the temperature in your office. You want your employees to be comfortable in the clothes they wear so they can maintain a high level of productivity, rather than get distracted by being too hot or too cold. If your office setting temperature is a comfortable 72 degrees, then uniforms made out of lightweight, airy material like cotton is a great choice.

Should that temperature ever feel a little too chilly for some employees, you can always give them the option of adding a second layer, whether that’s something they bring in themselves or a cardigan or a custom women’s work blazer you provide for your employees. The added benefit of providing a second layer is that you can customize the design and add your company name and logo as well as the employee’s name. Lastly, if your office setting is notoriously cold, whether that’s due to air conditioning in the sweltering summer months or some draftiness in the autumn or winter, stick to thicker, heavier materials.

Give Your Employees Options

Some days, your female employees may feel like wearing pants to the office; other days, they might opt for a skirt or a custom business dress. Whatever the case, it’s not a bad idea to offer a few options when it comes to business uniform shirts and bottoms. Additionally, when your employees have a few uniform outfits on hand, it makes it easier for them to come to work in fresh, presentable clothing rather than having to do laundry on a daily basis to keep their uniforms clean.

Invest in the Long Term

It’s tempting to purchase the most affordable option when it comes to uniforms, especially if you have to supply business uniforms for many employees. However, it’s important to remember that in some cases, an apparently affordable option could result in cheaper quality clothing. In the short term, it’s enticing to go for the cheapest option; but in the long term, those uniforms can end up getting worn out more quickly, and you’ll find yourself needing to purchase new uniforms sooner than you would have liked. Shop around and seriously consider the benefits of investing in higher-quality uniform materials. The initial cost may be more than what you planned, but the uniforms will last longer and save you more money overall.

Think About Your Company Image and Brand

The uniforms you choose for your employees represent your company image. After all, those uniforms are a key part of your brand, especially if your employees are in the public eye interacting with clients or have their photos posted on your company social media accounts. What kind of company are you? Are you a young and trendy marketing agency appealing to a 20-something demographic? Invest in uniforms that are playful, bright, and fashionable. Are you running a company that portrays a more serious, traditional image? Stick to more classic, professional attire in neutral colors. Whatever decision you make, keep in mind that the uniforms your employees wear will be a huge part of your brand identity.

Have Maternity Options for Expectant Mothers

If any of your employees are expecting, then you will need to have maternity options on hand. There are plenty of maternity uniforms, including tops, pants, and dresses. Again, it’s always a good idea to give your employees options. This is doubly true for pregnant women who will require comfortable clothing. Shop around and invest in custom uniform maternity workwear for your pregnant employees.

Aside from considering these helpful tips, as an employer, you should also do a little extra research before deciding what uniforms to purchase. You should speak with your employees as well, and invite them into the process of shopping for and choosing new uniforms. After all, their comfort level while working will encourage them to be happier and more productive. They will also appreciate being included and, in turn, feel valued as your employees.