by: Suzie Peterson

May 9, 2025

A neat, polished appearance communicates that you are dependable and organized.

There’s an old saying that “clothes make the person.” In many professional environments, that has long translated to suits, dress shoes, pencil skirts, and blazers. For decades, we’ve been taught to associate dressing up with taking work seriously—looking “put together” is often seen as shorthand for being responsible, capable, and career-minded.

But I’d like to challenge that idea.

In my own experience, the days I was the most productive, focused, and even creative at work were the days I dressed comfortably. I’m not talking about showing up in yoga pants and slippers, but rather clean, well-fitted, professional casual wear that allowed me to move, breathe, and think without distraction.

When I dressed comfortably, I didn’t feel like I was dressing down. I felt like I was showing up fully as myself—focused, present, and ready to give my best. My attitude didn’t slack off because I wasn’t in formal attire. Quite the opposite. I felt more energized, more at ease, and better equipped to handle the demands of the day.

Comfort Isn’t the Enemy of Professionalism

Uncomfortable clothes can be a huge distraction. Tight collars, stiff shoes, restrictive fabrics—all of that adds a layer of stress to an already full day. You’re constantly adjusting, fidgeting, or counting down the minutes until you can change. That doesn’t make anyone more professional; it just makes them more preoccupied.

On the other hand, when you’re wearing clothes that feel good—something breathable, supportive, and suited to your work—it’s easier to stay focused. Your mind isn’t stuck on your sore feet or how tight your waistband feels. You’re free to fully engage with your work.

That’s why I firmly believe that professionalism is about more than clothing. It’s about presence, effort, and how you carry yourself.

Clean, Pressed, and Appropriate Still Matter

Now, this isn’t an argument for wearing pajamas to the office, or the classroom in my case, or ignoring hygiene. Comfort shouldn’t come at the cost of presentation. In any workplace, appearance still sends a message. But we need to redefine what that message looks like.

You can wear relaxed clothing and still look completely professional. The key is being intentional:

• Clean: Your clothes should be freshly washed, free of stains, odors, or pet hair.
  
• Pressed: Wrinkle-free clothing shows you took care and time, even if you’re not in formalwear.
  
• Well-maintained: No holes, stretched-out fabrics, or obvious wear-and-tear.
  
• Work-appropriate: Context matters. What’s okay in a startup might not fly in a law office. Know your audience.
  

Dressing this way shows that you respect yourself, your role, and your workplace—even if you’re not wearing a tie or heels.

Understanding the “Why” Behind Someone’s Outfit

There’s also an important layer of empathy here. Sometimes what looks like a casual outfit has a deeper reason behind it. Those running shoes might be a medical necessity. That loose top might help someone manage chronic pain or sensory issues. That decision not to wear a blazer might be about avoiding overheating during a long day of meetings.

We don’t always know what someone is dealing with. Judging a person’s capability or commitment based on their wardrobe is not only unfair—it’s unwise. We risk overlooking great employees and coworkers by clinging to outdated ideas of what “professional” looks like.

Letting People Do Their Best Work

The truth is, people do their best work when they feel good—physically, mentally, and emotionally. Comfortable clothing can support all three. A flexible dress code that allows for clean, polished, and relaxed clothing gives people room to show up as their best selves.

It says, “We care more about your contributions than your cuffs.” It fosters inclusion, creativity, and authenticity. And, in my experience, it often leads to better work.

So no, dressing up doesn’t automatically make someone better at their job. And dressing down—when done with intention and respect—doesn’t mean they’re slacking. Sometimes, it means they’re gearing up to give it their all.

And that’s something worth wearing proudly.

Copyright © 2025. Suzann Peterson. All rights reserved, including the right to reproduce this text or portions thereof in any form whatsoever. For information, address the publisher.