Dress Codes Are Loosening—But Not Disappearing

Workplace attire has long been a point of debate, and as offices reopen, employees are noticing big changes in expectations. According to Monster’s January 2025 poll, 43% of workers reported they have not worked in an office with a dress code in the past year.

For those who do have guidelines, 61% say their office dress code has shifted recently:

  • 22% say it’s become more casual.
  • 17% report a new emphasis on comfort without sacrificing professionalism.
  • 16% noted more minor shifts but didn’t specify the style or type.
  • 6% say rules have gotten stricter, requiring more formal attire.

Notably, 44% of workers would consider changing jobs if a company’s dress code better aligned with their personal style and preferences—making attire more than just a fashion choice, but a retention issue.

What “Professional” Looks Like Today

Among the 57% of employees who reported having a dress code, the majority (63%) say their office leans toward business casual. Another 30% fall into the casual (15%), smart casual (9%), or field/workwear (6%) categories, while only 6% say they work in a business formal environment.

When given the choice, workers revealed clear preferences:

  • 45% would choose business casual.
  • 31% prefer a laid-back, comfortable style.
  • 14% would select professional attire.
  • Only 4% would opt for trendy, fashion-forward looks.

Interestingly, performance and confidence don’t always tie directly to attire. While 41% of workers say dressing professionally doesn’t impact their performance, nearly a quarter (23%) believe dressing up makes them feel more confident and focused. 

Thinking about how to strike the right balance between comfortable and professional? Check out Monster’s Complete Guide to What to Wear to Work, which walks you through the dos and don’ts of office attire—especially helpful if your company culture isn’t clearly defined. 

 

Fashion Do’s and Don’ts in the Office

When it comes to workplace fashion trends, employees have mixed feelings:

Secretly loved office looks:

  • 27% love sneakers with suits.
  • 25% love denim on denim.
  • 23% love athleisure.
  • 19% love sweatshirts or sweatpants.
     

Top workplace fashion pet peeves:

  • 22% dislike workout gear in the office.
  • 18% are bothered by sweatshirts or sweatpants.
  • 13% find shorts inappropriate.
  • 10% dislike colleagues who are overly formal.
  • 10% disapprove of sandals or open-toed shoes.
     

The Bottom Line: Style and Culture Go Hand in Hand

Workplace attire is no longer just about policy—it’s about company culture. While some organizations embrace casual and comfort-first dress codes, others still value the polish of professional attire. With nearly half of workers willing to change jobs for a dress code that better fits their lifestyle, employers should take note: what your team wears may influence how long they stay.

Methodology

The findings in this report are based on a survey conducted by Monster in January 2025 among 1,300+ U.S. workers. Respondents were employed either full-time or part-time at the time of the survey. Participants answered a mix of yes/no, single-selection, and multiple-choice questions about workplace culture, employer support, mental health, and job priorities. The sample included workers across a range of industries, age groups, genders, and education levels to reflect the diversity of the U.S. workforce.

Find a Job That Fits Your Style

Sign up for a free account on Monster to explore opportunities where the culture—and the dress code—align with your preferences. Upload your resume to get noticed by top employers and receive custom job alerts that match your goals. Start your search today and step into a role where you’ll feel comfortable and confident.

 

 

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Vicki Salemi Career Advice Expert

Vicki Salemi is a nationally recognized career expert who helps professionals navigate the hiring landscape and find the right fit on Monster. With over 15 years of experience in corporate recruiting and HR, she offers expert guidance on job search strategies, interview preparation, and career development to help candidates land their next role.

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