As college students, we must, for the first time in many of our lives, dress for professional settings. We quickly realize, though, that dressing professionally sucks. It may be time to start challenging the standards of professionalism.
A so-called “professional” outfit consists of tailored silhouettes and conservative shapes and coverage–and at face value, this doesn’t seem so bad. However, such items usually end up being totally impractical for literally everything. A fitted blazer, for instance, doesn’t allow for maximum arm movement and can even restrict blood flow to the arms and hands. Pencil skirts, as well, are notoriously difficult to move in and often ride up when you sit down. Plus, a sizable portion of these clothes are not warm-weather-friendly. Even though most office settings in the US are probably air-conditioned, you could still wind up smelly and sweaty on the way to work (which is hardly professional, either). The entire ensemble, really, ends up being ridiculously uncomfortable (including the shoes, usually consisting of oxfords, loafers, or pumps).
When it comes to actually finding garments that fit this bill (which can be difficult in itself), the bill adds up fast. Outfits like these often require additional patterning and expensive fabrics, increasing their prices. Plus, many of these outfits are sold as sets, meaning that you can’t exactly just get one piece. Then, you might have to get them tailored (or buy a belt), which is an additional cost, and you might have to iron them (and what kind of college student has an iron? An ironing board?) While there are cheaper options available, they are noticeably less nice–which can set an unfavorable impression or lead to poorly-timed wardrobe malfunctions such as missing buttons, broken heels, and tripping and falling.
Throughout history, we have retired trends for being impractical or even dangerous, and it’s high time we do so with businesswear. While what we consider professional clothing may not be as dangerous as heavily-layered skirts that get caught on protruding objects or even catch fire, it certainly isn’t the most versatile or practical in an emergency. Additionally, most outfits that are considered “businesslike” lack features that could improve work efficiency, such as pockets and breathable sleeves. I fail to see how wearing sneakers to work could affect professional performance in any way. We as a culture ought to start moving away from misguided concepts of professionalism towards a more practical, accessible approach.