FASHION IN THE WORKPLACE

STYLE: SAVANNAH ADLER & BARAKA MACHARIA, HALEY POAG WORDS: KAYCE WRIGHT PHOTO: ALEC PLYMALE GLAM: MACKENZIE STOY

Students are never sure of the correct attire when preparing for interviews, internships and other positions. But one thing they do know is that the norms and styles of the workplace are evolving— and they are in control of where that goes. As Generation Z begins to enter the workforce, we are seeing how our new generation influences workplace fashion and how trends are significantly changing in terms of dress code.

Since millennials have entered the working world, fashion has transformed from business professional to business casual. They steered clear of the typical work attire norms, substituting their simple black pumps for sneakers. Jeans are now an acceptable replacement for slacks. Blazers do not have to fit but can be worn oversized. All of these slight changes made to fashion in the workplace over the past decade have paved the way for Generation Z to express themselves and feel comfortable in the office. This generation grew up in a world where information is at our fingertips, and creativity is encouraged. People have the opportunity to easily access fashion inspiration on the internet and incorporate that into their style. tailored clothing, closed-toed shoes, collared shirts and more. With many working from home due to COVID, professionals are not expected to wear suits to work anymore. Looking professional has a different ring to it, as a combination of styles are relevant in work-from-home or office fashion today. A mix of athleisure and business casual has become very prevalent in many employee’s wardrobes. It is a new take on the “Skype interview” style, as one should be able to feel comfortable and reflect their personal style while working. Pairing a blazer with one’s favorite lounge shorts should not be frowned upon but encouraged. Generation Z will consistently dress this way, and it will play a large role in going back to work, whenever that may be.

Despite where people are working, they will continue to discover new styles and forms of fashion. Regardless of what Generation Z will be wearing, this will not correlate with professionalism. Creative expression does not mean anything less professional; work just doesn’t need to be done in a pencil skirt. This generation has proved that sweats work just as well as slacks, and they will watch this style continue to evolve with generations and decades to follow.