Archives for July 2017

Uniform Decisions — Why Organizations Dress as They Do

by Traci McBride

Q: What is the role of uniforms in a place like a casino?

A: When any organization invests in uniforms, much thought needs to go into the process, such as:

  • Role that the employee is playing within the organization
  • Colors of the uniform – how you want the client to respond
  • Body types of each individual
  • Tasks the employees are responsible for in their roles
  • Comfort level of employee
  • Personal grooming
  • Branding of organization/business
  • Message to the general public

The role of uniforms in any setting is to communicate to the audience what can be expected. In the case of the casino, it is how its customers recognize and respond instantly to the role each employee is responsible to perform. Hostess, waiter, chef, dealer, etc. — you wouldn’t want a customer to walk up to a dealer to order a drink, for example.

Here are tips to choosing the right uniform for the job, regardless of the type of business:

  • Role of employee: Most business have different expectations for the role of each employee. Management skills are unique and need to have a flexible personality in dealing with so many different personalities while communicating respect to the employee yet lead effectively. Usually each level has uniform differences.
  • Colors: Standing out in the crowds, proving unity with overall branding, creating reaction
  • Body types: One style and cut doesn’t flatter every body type, but good tailoring can elevate the brand while flattering the employee which creates confidence
  • Tasks: Taking into consideration what the employees are doing in their jobs. Lots of bending, lifting, walking, carrying. The uniform needs to be mindful of the tasks needing to be performed.
  • Comfort: Providing options should the A/C be too high for the bare-shouldered cocktail waitress, heel height as well as shape of the shoe — marrying comfort with mood and flattery is a skill and needs to be taken seriously by management. This communicates a respect of talent and loyalty.
  • Personal Grooming: This is extremely important, and a written policy is necessary. Addressing cosmetics, hair, nails, scents, teeth, hosiery, facial hair, posture, breath are all key to spelling out the expectations.
  • Branding: Having an overall flow of tone and color while convening a clear message directed to every single customer that walk into the door.
  • Message to general public: We care about your comfort level and that you feel relaxed and valued.

Should you need specific advice on uniforms in your place of business, I am available for confidential consultations.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: Traci is the wardrobe stylist at TeeMcBee Image Consulting. Subscribe to her newsletter, schedule a style strategy call, or request Tee Speaks to infuse your organization with passion and style.

Panty Hose Goes … as long as it looks natural

by Traci McBride

Question: Bare leg vs. panty hose? I am often asked this question. Women that despise hose actually get mad at me for not saying bare leg only! But there is a place for panty hose.

Answer: Think of hosiery as you would foundation for your face. The better the skin looks, the less concealer you need. Use these steps to determine what is best for you.

  • First, look to your company’s dress code — some require hosiery.
  • Second, look at your legs and the fit of your clothes. Now some of us just get a better, leaner, smoother line with control-top pantyhose.
  • Third, consider the color of your skin. Avoid wearing “suntan” if you aren’t. If you are pasty white, wear the sheerest, most natural shade to your skin tone.
  • Fourth, consider your preference and comfort.

TIPS:
The goal is to wear pantyhose so close to your natural skin tone and so sheer that no one notices your pantyhose.
Opaque black (or other dark-colored) tights will be trendy going into fall. This is easiest to wear if the shoes match the tights (black or other dark colors). If you are more daring, you can make a statement with contrasting colors. Don’t be afraid to try something fun like a small fishnet pattern, which is great for letting a bit of skin show through while having a dressier look than basic hose.

ABOUT TRACI MCBRIDE: Traci is the wardrobe stylist at TeeMcBee Image Consulting. Subscribe to her newsletter, schedule a style strategy call, or request Tee Speaks to infuse your organization with passion and style.

 

Traci's new book will help you

Master Your Evolving Style!

Click here to visit Amazon book page

Click here to visit Traci's Author Page