I wonder if you’ve noticed, as I have, that over recent years employees and businesses have become more comfortable with a dressed down environment. Balancing that trend with the belief that in business the clothes make the man or woman can create conflicts in the workplace, especially when it comes to whether or not to implement a dress code. We all want our businesses to be portrayed in the best light, while still allowing the self expression of our employees, so this is what I've found that works.

Dress code? Yes, but with flexibility. Consider what your purpose is in implementing a dress code. I like to think of a dress code as a guideline to steer employees to make the right decisions, rather than a list of "don't's." As a business owner I want my employees and my business to appear professional; however, I don’t want everyone to have to dress the same. Create a policy that is most appropriate for your employees and your business environment.

It depends. Having a dress code is important but based on the products you sell and industry you’re in, it could be very different from a formal corporate dress code. When creating a dress code, make sure it will make your employees and customers feel comfortable interacting with your business. As an extreme example, if your store sells skateboarding equipment, it would be silly and off-putting to customers if employees had to wear suits.

Be sensitive. As any business owner is aware when designing policies, you have to pay attention to any potential discrimination pitfalls, whether by gender, religious or race. To be safe, have your attorney review any policies you write. In general, if your policy places a greater burden on anyone based on gender, race or religion, it could be a problem.

How have you handled this issue with your business?