When Arturo Polichuk landed his first college internship at Nike in 2020, the pandemic meant he never actually worked in the office—just picked up and dropped off his computer. Like many Gen Zers, he missed out on learning the unwritten rules of office dress codes in person.
Now, as return-to-office policies take effect, Gen Z—those born after 1996 and soon to make up a quarter of the global workforce—are navigating a confusing landscape of dress codes. Traditional terms like “business casual” are being questioned, while social media introduces new trends like the “office siren” look, which puts a modern, edgier spin on professional attire.
Are Dress Codes Still Relevant?
The answer is mixed. Some workplaces maintain clear guidelines, especially in fields like law, where formal attire is required in court. Others, especially in tech and consulting, offer only vague instructions, leaving new hires to figure things out on their own. Many Gen Z employees report erring on the side of caution by dressing more formally on their first day, only to realize that office norms have become much more relaxed post-pandemic.
Ultimately, most young professionals learn what’s appropriate by observing their colleagues and adapting accordingly, rather than relying on written policies.
What Does Gen Z Actually Wear to Work?
The focus for many is on finding a “uniform” that fits both the culture of their workplace and their personal style. In finance, for example, the “finance bro vest” is a staple, while in consulting, comfortable yet polished options like Lululemon ABC pants are popular—they look formal but feel like athletic wear.
Some, like Kyndal Midkiff, embrace a capsule wardrobe, buying multiple colors of the same item for ease and consistency. Others choose versatile pieces that can work both in and out of the office, such as button-up shirts that can be dressed up or down.
Self-Expression Matters
Despite the desire to fit in, Gen Z places a high value on individuality. This shows up in subtle ways—through accessories, bold colors, unique shoes, or signature pieces like bell-bottom trousers or funky sweaters. For some, even small details like jewelry or nail art are opportunities for self-expression.
This playful approach is even influencing older generations, as companies become more accepting of things like colored hair or unconventional styles. As one stylist put it, Gen Z is “rewriting the playbook” on what professional attire can look like, blending comfort, individuality, and professionalism in new ways.