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A GENTLEMAN GETS
DRESSED FOR THE
OFFICE

Even some of the most traditional legal and financial firms no longer adhere strictly to a tie-and-jacket dress code on every workday at the office. Some have, in fact, institutionalized a policy of “casual Fridays”; or it may be understood that if a gentleman has no face-to-face appointments scheduled with clients, he may at least dispense with his necktie.

If a gentleman is new to his work environment, however, he is careful to devote at least a couple of weeks to assessing the regimen in his office. He will be relieved if one of his new coworkers tells him, “You know, Terrell, we don’t wear a coat and tie every day of the week,” and then explains the office policy. On the other hand, he will find it awkward indeed, should a senior partner take him aside to caution him that “open collars may be a bit casual around our office.”

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In many professions, however, sport shirts, polo shirts, slacks, and even jeans may be the expected dress code. Even if he finds it permissible to wear a T-shirt and slacks, a gentleman makes sure his clothes are clean, neatly laundered, and in good repair.