Despite being the go-to wardrobe item during summer, shorts have become increasingly unpopular as a professional ensemble. In many workplaces, wearing shorts may be seen as unprofessional, and cause others to view you as less capable and reliable than if you had opted for a more office-appropriate outfit. This article discusses why shorts might be regarded as unprofessional and explores the different contexts in which they should be worn.
Reasons Why Shorts Are Unprofessional
The primary reason why shorts may be regarded as unprofessional is because their length does not provide the same coverage as trousers or skirts. The shorter length of shorts shows more skin, and can be seen as distracting and unprofessional. Depending on how long the shorts are, they may also be perceived as not being appropriate for certain formal contexts. They may also draw attention away from a person’s accomplishments or qualifications.
In general, shorts are seen as more casual clothing, and in some cases, they are associated with youth and informality. This contrasts with the formal appearance that is often expected in a professional environment. Therefore, although there are some contexts in which wearing shorts may be acceptable, it is generally best to avoid wearing them in professional settings.
What to Wear Instead of Shorts
The best way to maintain a professional look when dressing for the office is to opt for trousers or skirts that reach to at least the knee-length. These are usually regarded as much more professional than shorts of any length. If you are looking for a more relaxed look, but also want to avoid unprofessional clothing, then cropped trousers or culottes might be a better choice than shorts.
The Professionalism of Different Types of Shorts
Not all shorts are viewed as equally unprofessional. Cargo shorts, denim shorts, and workout shorts might be seen as more casual and unprofessional than tailored dress shorts or tailored Bermuda shorts. In some cases, dress shorts might even be considered professional depending on the event or context in which they are worn. Ideally, you should always try to keep the length of your shorts knee-length or longer if you would like to maintain a formal appearance.
Different Contexts for Wearing Shorts
Shorts are may not be seen as suitable for most professional contexts, but there are some instances in which wearing them can be appropriate. Examples of less formal settings in which it might be acceptable to wear shorts include attending an outdoor party or gathering, playing sports in hot weather, or taking part in recreational activities. In situations like these, it is usually fine to wear shorts so long as their length is appropriate.
Appropriate Ways to Accessorize with Shorts
While there might some occasions on which you can wear shorts, it is important to note that they should still be accessorized in a way that looks professional. Some good tips for accessorizing with shorts include wearing them with a well-tailored shirt, choosing accessories that complement your outfit, and avoiding shoes that are overly casual or athletic. Overall, it is important to ensure that your overall outfit appears thoughtful and polished.
How to Dress Professionally When Wearing Shorts
In some cases, you may want to achieve a professional look while wearing shorts – for instance, for a less formal job interview or for a barbecue with colleagues. To do this, make sure that your shorts are of good quality, are well-tailored to fit your body properly, and sit at the knee or longer. Additionally, it can help to pick muted colors and to avoid busy or bright patterns whenever possible.
Potential Consequences of Wearing Unprofessional Clothing
Deciding not to dress professionally can have serious implications for your career prospects. For example, if you choose to wear shorts in an inappropriate setting, some people may perceive you as being lazy or irresponsible. In more extreme cases, failing to dress appropriately could lead you to miss out on promotions or miss out on opportunities altogether.
Tips for Choosing Professional-Looking Shorts
In order to choose shorts that look professional but still maintain a sense of comfort, there are several tips that you should consider. Look for quality fabrics such as cotton or linen and make sure that the shorts are well-tailored. If in doubt, opt for neutral colors such as black or navy blue, as these are usually seen as more formal than lighter shades. Make sure the length isn’t too short – knee-length or longer is generally seen as most appropriate.
Common Misconceptions About Wearing Shorts in Professional Settings
Despite the fact that wearing shorts might be seen as unprofessional, there are many misconceptions about the appropriateness of different types of shorts in certain professional settings. For example, some people mistakenly believe that dress or tailored shorts can be worn in certain professional environments when this is not usually the case. Ultimately, you should always err on the side of caution and choose trousers or skirts instead of shorts when dressing formally.
