Dress codes - when they do get discriminatory? Would absolute standardization fix the problem?

[Jean-Marie_Céline]

This question comes from a fascinating conversation I had today with some seniors in my father's employ.
We were discussing about some new dress codes to be implemented in some of the more formal settings, and a lady pointed out we need to make concessions and avoid forcing elements such a skirts and high heels as to avoid allegations of discrimination.
I agreed with her, but then made a proposal that although may sound crazy, it could work - what if we prescribed all indentical jumpsuits?
It sounds extreme, but my rationale for avoiding any discrimination - intentional or not - would be to make everyone equal with jumpsuits.
What are your thoughts on the matter?

[scarlett774]

All throughout middle and highschool I absolutely despised dress code with a passion. I found all the rules to be so sexist and only aimed towards girls. I lived in Florida and it was very hot and we had the finger rule where our shorts always had to reach our fingers and I as many other girls had long arms and were very tall so finding shorts, dresses, skirts etc. that were in dress code was very hard. Also the “no showing shoulders” rule was absolutely ridiculous. School is for learning I don’t see why so many rules need to be put in place.

[PaynefulPleasures]

Dress codes are like a double edge sword
It's good kids don't compete with the new line of clothing, their all the same
Yet it's like submitting a kid into submission (although some need it)
In my opinion I don't agree with it ✌️

[ChrisMaster69]

In previous job in the RAF, we had specific dress codes for in the Mess.

We had fairly well rounded dress codes

Although sometimes could be archaic.

https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/244231/20130130-DFTDC_Combined_Mess_Dress_Regs-U.pdf
https://www.messetiquette.co.uk/dress.html

I put one in place for working from home and expected standard of dress while on video calls both internal and with customers

[worldscolide]

I think standardization would definitely fix the issue. On that same token, At my company we are required to dress business casual.. Business casual for men is way more restrictive than business casual for the women.. For men its slacks, button down shirt and tie.. For the women it could be Pants, Dress, Shorts, Sweats. Button down shirts, t shirts, and a myriad of other choices.

[Jean-Marie_Céline]

Thank you for sharing your experience, I wholeheartedly appreciate it.
I realize it's a very spiky topic and one to tread on carefully.

[worldscolide]

Right.. Tends to trigger people lol..

[worldscolide]

Thanks for MHO!!

[Jean-Marie_Céline]

You are welcome, thank you for sharing your excellent opinion!

[DJB72]

I have a dress code for my business. It's simple: if you look like a hooker I'm sending you home to change when you come back if you still look like a hooker you get written up for insubordination and sent home to change again. If you come back still looking like a hooker after that you're docked a day's pay and sent home.

Written warning stays on file 12 months. Three strike rule. I've fired employees - male & female - for it.

At work my employee represents me. What they wear out of work is their business, but while they're representing me, smart casual and no visible tattoos. It's simple.

[Jjpayne]

It's an interesting idea 🤔 I'd be interested to see how it would be implemented

[Jean-Marie_Céline]

It would be a trial period, then deciding the policy

[Jjpayne]

Sounds interesting 🧐

[msc545]

I think dress codes are way too controlling. Honestly, I would just rely on the employees to dress in a way that is appropriate to their role and leave it at that.