Professional dress is essential to advancement in any career path. A person is expected to dress according to the company guidelines, at minimum. Whether it is uniformed attire or an Armani suit, an employee is expected to leave the unprofessional dress for occasions outside of work. If you have a good rapport with a coworker whose dress is not up to company standards, take the time to tell them that they dress unprofessionally.

How to Tell a Coworker they Dress Unprofessionally

Be honest and tell the truth. If your coworker continuously wears button down shirts that should be tucked in instead of hanging out, simply suggest that they tuck in their shirt. If they are supposed to wear a tie, but instead walk around with no tie and the first three buttons open, suggest that they begin to wear the proper attire for work.

Suggest that your coworker have a makeover. This can be done with a sense of decorum. Try to suggest colors and styles that are within company guidelines. Suggestions can be used to spark a bit of interest. Hopefully, it will get your coworker thinking about their unprofessional look.

Politely ask your superior to pass out or email a copy of the dress code policy to the department. Ironically, the things you notice at work have been noticed by others, especially your superiors. Instead of pointing the finger at your coworker, simply ask your supervisor to distribute company policy. You can even volunteer to make the copies yourself.

Drop a hint by bringing magazines. This indirect approach works wonders. Find a nice business suit or outfit in a trendy magazine. Tell your coworker that you saw a particularly stunning look and thought of them.