What do my clothes communicate?

That is the question we should all ask ourselves before walking into the workplace. Whether we like it or not, clothing is one of the first ways we introduce ourselves professionally. Before we speak in a meeting, answer an email, or present an idea, people notice how we present ourselves.

Where Generation X and Generation Z sometimes disagree is how much weight that first impression should carry. But one thing both generations can agree on: workplace attire still matters.

Laura Rubenstein (Gen X):

If the workplace dress code conversation makes you roll your eyes and mutter, “Why does it matter what I wear if I do good work?” — congratulations. You sound exactly like every Generation X employee did at age 22. The difference is we learned, sometimes painfully, that appearance is part of communication whether we like it or not.

As the saying goes: Dress for the job you want, not the job you have.

That does not mean you need to show up to your entry-level marketing job looking like you are arguing before the Supreme Court. But it does mean understanding the difference between casual, business casual, business professional, and business formal — because they are not interchangeable.

Luanne Mottley (Gen Z):

The modern workplace has evolved, and dress codes have evolved with it. Many offices are more relaxed than they were even ten years ago, especially after remote work blurred the lines between home and office attire.

But “relaxed” should not be confused with “anything goes.” The goal of workplace attire is not to erase individuality. It is to communicate competence, professionalism, and respect for the people around you. Clothing can absolutely reflect personality while still being appropriate for the environment. The key is intentionality.

WHAT IS CASUAL?

Laura Rubenstein (Gen X):

Somewhere between “business formal” and “I woke up like this” lies the modern office dress code. Casual workplace attire should still communicate three things: clean, covered, and intentional. Casual does NOT mean:

• gym clothes
• pajama-adjacent outfits
• crop tops or midriff shirts
• short shorts
• ripped jeans that look like they lost a fight with a lawnmower
• graphic t-shirts with slogans, politics, or what you consider to be "humor"

A good rule? If your look would have a grandparent ask whether you forgot the rest of your outfit, reconsider.

Luanne Mottley (Gen Z):

Generation Z values self-expression, but most young professionals understand there is still a difference between personal style and workplace attire. Casual clothing should still fit properly, look clean, and avoid distractions. Comfort matters, but workplace comfort does not extend to loungewear. Clothing should also be free from excessive branding or messaging unless it directly relates to your employer or workplace culture.

Both generations can agree on this: wrinkled, stained, or poorly fitting clothes rarely communicate “future leader.”

WHAT IS BUSINESS CASUAL?

Laura Rubenstein (Gen X):

Business casual is where many young professionals go wrong. “Casual” is in the name, but the word business comes first for a reason. Business casual generally means:

• collared shirts
• blouses
• sweaters
• polos
• slacks or khakis
• dark jeans, if permitted
• dresses or skirts of appropriate length
• clean shoes
• layers that look intentional

And yes — tucking in is usually preferred. Add a belt. Wear clothes that fit correctly. Oversized, sloppy, stained, or wrinkled clothing does not project professionalism.

Luanne Mottley (Gen Z):

Business casual should also communicate the nature of your work. In professional environments, appearance can reinforce credibility and expertise. The biggest misconception is that business casual means dressing casually for business. In reality, it means slightly relaxing traditional professional attire while still looking polished.

A blazer may not always be required anymore, but professionalism still is.

BUSINESS PROFESSIONAL AND BUSINESS FORMAL

Luanne Mottley (Gen Z):

Business Professional attire is slightly more relaxed than traditional Business Formal. It includes:

• blazers
• coordinated slacks
• dresses
• suits with subtle colors or patterns

This is often the unspoken expectation for interviews, presentations, conferences, and important meetings.

Business Formal remains the most traditional dress code:

• tailored suits
• ties for men
• conservative styling
• darker colors for more formal occasions

These expectations still exist in industries such as law, finance, higher education leadership, and government.

Laura Rubenstein (Gen X):

If you are unsure whether something is “too formal,” that is usually safer than being remembered as the person who wore joggers to a client presentation. One can always remove a tie, but you can’t remove your t-shirt. You do not need expensive designer clothes to look good, a few classic pieces are suitably professional.

Jewelry, Shoes, and Other Workplace Adventures

Laura Rubenstein (Gen X):

Accessories should complement your outfit, not create sound effects every time you move. Avoid jewelry that:

• dangles excessively
• clangs during meetings
• interferes with your work duties

And for the love of OSHA, review your workplace handbook regarding prohibited attire and safety requirements. Many workplaces restrict:

• open-toes shoes
• loose clothing around machinery
• excessive jewelry in certain environments

Those rules are not there to ruin your aesthetic. They are there to keep you attached to all your fingers.

Luanne Mottley (Gen Z):

Practicality matters. Workplace attire should allow you to perform your job safely and comfortably while maintaining professionalism. That said, one thing both generations can surprisingly agree on is this: clean white sneakers work with almost everything right now.

With suits. With slacks. Even with some dresses. Just make sure they are actually clean and actually white.

POLITICS AND PROFESSIONALISM

Laura Rubenstein (Gen X):

Unless you work on a political campaign, or your union collective bargaining agreement permits it, the workplace is generally not the place for political slogans, hats, or messaging on clothing. You are there to build professional relationships, not audition for cable news.

Luanne Mottley (Gen Z):

Workplaces are increasingly diverse, and professionalism includes being mindful of shared environments. Clothing that unnecessarily distracts from work can undermine collaboration and communication.

There is a time and place for personal expression. The workplace may not always be it.

FINAL THOUGHTS: DRESS FOR YOUR DAY

Both generations ultimately agree on one important principle: context matters. A casual office day may call for one type of attire, while a client meeting, interview, presentation, or formal event may require something more polished. The ability to “dress for your day” demonstrates professionalism, awareness, and respect for the occasion.

Employers can help by providing clear dress code expectations rather than leaving employees guessing. And employees should remember this: your clothing does not need to erase your personality. But it should help people focus on your work — not distract from it.

Because whether you are Gen X or Gen Z, professionalism never truly goes out of style.