As Girly As It Gets - The Dress Code - Part 4

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After the massage, they were both drained.  As they donned their robes, Terry forgot to tuck his ponytail into the robe.  Moira knew Terry had long hair, but she had no idea Terry’s hair was so long.  Natalie said nothing. They moved to one of the rooms where the epi-wash baths were located.

The tubs were large and full of a greenish liquid that resembled Jello.  It was not as firm as Jello.  The liquid was warm and the two tubs were again separated by a privacy screen.  Natalie explained that the Epi-bath was one of their special treatments.  It would help re-invigorate their skin, clean off everything and make their skin smooth all over.

Natalie explained they did not want their hair to get in the bath.  They put their hair into a shower cap and climbed into the baths which covered them up to their necks.  On a table attached to the bath, Natalie delivered a new cup of tea.  There was a neck brace and pillow.  Terry sipped his laced tea and pondered how he could enjoy wasting time like this on a business day.  Soon, Terry was almost asleep as he rested his head and neck in the brace provided.  The liquid was warm and tingled. A woman appeared and began working on Terry’s face.

She explained that the epi-wash was too strong for their faces and that they would be performing a facial and applying a mask.  Terry’s face was washed and the technician eventually applied a mask to Terry’s skin and covered his eyes.  Sometime later, as if in a daze, Terry realized Natalie was trying to talk to him.  Taking the coverings off his eyes, he noticed that Moira was standing behind Natalie and had already gotten out of her bath.  Natalie explained that the technician would help him out of the tub and over to the shower in the corner.  Natalie and Moira stepped back around the privacy divider.  Terry felt like he was almost in a fog.

He stood up and the technician gave him a towel to drape around himself.  Terry moved slowly over to the showers.  He did not even realize the technician was holding his waist and had his arm around Terry's shoulder.  As he stood in the shower, the technician placed his hands on a support bar and turned the water on.  The towel was removed and the hot water rushed over Terry’s body.  The slime from the bath washed down the drain and Terry quickly ran body wash over his body.

He was self-conscious with the technician standing there and wanted to get things done as fast as possible.  In his relaxed state of mind and worrying about the technician, Terry didn’t notice that there was not a hair on his body below his neck.  When he was done, the technician helped him slide a new pair of briefs up his legs and he donned a robe to join the other ladies.  Natalie guided them to their next stop which was another treatment room.

Natalie explained that lasers and other tools were now used to help keep the skin smooth and to remove blemishes. Moira and Terry each lay on a table and the technicians began the laser treatment.  Moira was done first but Terry hardly noticed.  Moira had the treatment before and only needed a few touch-ups.  Terry on the other hand needed a lot of work. The technicians had Terry don blacked-out goggles to protect his eyes.  The two technicians worked on all of Terry’s legs, back, and buttocks.  Terry was very relaxed and had almost fallen asleep during the process.

He continued to sip on more tea as he never seemed to run out.  Soon the technicians were working on his chest and face.  When they were done, Terry was massaged softly with invigorating oils that made his skin glow.  After getting Terry back into his robe, he joined Moira and Natalie in the lounge for lunch.  Lunch was light. While they ate Natalie talked more about the dress code and professional appearance. “Now Terry,” Natalie began, “One of the things about professionals is that they have to present a certain image.  If you are the receptionist in a dentist's office, you can wear almost anything you want and no one cares.  Makeup is not important and you can do crazy things with your hair.  The company was worried about this and that is why the dress code rules were changed recently.”

Terry was listening and he was still pretty relaxed.  But he felt he needed to interject at this point.  “Natalie, I was with the company when these rules were changed and I helped draft many of the changes.” Natalie thought that was cute.  Everyone from the copy boy to HR could potentially claim to be involved in crafting the rules if all they did was print them out or read them for review.  “So, Terry would you say that you know what most of the rules and requirements are?” Terry felt they were finally getting into an area where he could demonstrate his knowledge.

He was an executive after all.  “Natalie, I have read all the rules and I think I probably have a better understanding than almost everyone at the company.” “Well,” Natalie began, “then why were you not wearing the correct shirt and underwear this morning?  Do you not think the rules apply to you?” Terry was back on his heels again, “Of course, the rules apply to me.  But, I never even thought about the shirt.  And, I am still not sure why I would wear a slip.” “Terry, if I was a coworker who wanted to get you in trouble, I could get you fired in days.” “Fired? What are you talking about?” Terry was aghast. “I would watch you and complain about just one thing a day.

I could have gotten you on 5-10 things this morning.  The fact is that you have no idea what the requirements are.  It’s obvious.” Terry demanded, “Tell me just one other thing I did wrong this morning.  Just one and then I’ll reconsider.  I’ll do whatever you tell me.” Natalie smirked.  “You are so easy.  The rules say that employees who are required to wear a bra shall have their nails manicured in a professional manner and that their nail varnish shall not be an outlandish color but shall contribute to their professional presentation.” Terry smiled with confidence. “So what?  My nails are trimmed nicely.

Find something else.” Natalie responded, “Terry, remember when I told you that there were sections that were poorly worded?” “Yes.” “This is one of those sections.”  Natalie paused for effect.  Terry still did not get it.  “Terry, you have to look at this as if you are in court.  Because if someone gets fired and challenges this rule that is where it will get evaluated.  The rule says people wearing bras SHALL have their nails manicured in a professional manner.  Shall means they have to do it.  Your nails were done at home, not professionally.  That is why the company contracts us to provide free manicures for all the bra-wearing employees in the executive area.

You don’t have a choice.  In addition, the rule says, AND their nail varnish SHALL not be an outlandish color.  The ‘AND’ means it is a requirement.  Their nail varnish means they have to have some kind of nail varnish.  It does not say it has to be colored.  But you have to have nail varnish.  If you decide to select a color, you just have to pick a professional color.  Professional color might be something to match an outfit or something generic enough to go with several clothing choices.

You do not have nail varnish on your nails.  Therefore, I got you on two separate issues.  Your nails are not done professionally and they are not varnished.” Terry was dumbfounded.  That is not what they meant when that section was written.  But, he understood what she was saying.  “Are you telling me that you expect me to polish my nails?” Natalie shook her head.  “No, I am telling you that is what your company requires you to do to meet the dress code.  I am telling you that a complaint could be lodged against you for violation of the rule.

And as part of this orientation, I am notifying you that the company attorneys agree with what I just told you and will enforce it as I described.” Terry cried, “That’s ridiculous.” Natalie came back, “Don’t blame me.  Blame the idiot that wrote these stupid rules.”

Terry suddenly gulped.  Moira smiled. Terry realized he had written that section himself. Natalie continued, “Who would tell people that if they wear a bra they have to have nail polish on their nails?  How are those two things related?  I don’t get it.” Terry got it.  Moira knew he got it.  Terry wondered what other critical mistakes he might have made. Terry sounded a bit more somber as he said, “Okay, I think you made your point.

I don’t know what all the requirements are.  But you don’t think they actually expect me to wear nail polish do you?” “Yes.  If you want to keep your job, I think you should expect to wear nail polish.  And I know that because you have been scheduled for regular weekly appointments paid for by the company just like all the other administrative staff who have finished this course.  It is considered a benefit since the company requires it.  I think you and Moira will be coming in together.”  Natalie looked very serious as she delivered this message to Terry.

Given that he was wearing a bra and working with Moira, Natalie wondered why he seemed to be fighting this at every step of the way.  Moira wondered if Terry noticed that she continued to refer to Terry along with the “other” administrative staff. “You know Terry,” Natalie added in an attempt to diffuse the situation, “you can wear clear nail polish and no one will know unless they look closely.

Lots of men get their nails done regularly.”  Then she added, “We can always do your toes with a little color since no one will see them.” Terry submitted, “Alright, I guess clear polish is what I will have to do.” Professional Clothing Natalie changed topics, “Now, we need to discuss professional clothing.  The company dress code tries to ensure that all executives and their administrative staff present a professional image.  Professional clothing is expected at all times in the office unless the company specifically announces some relaxation of these rules.

On a day-to-day basis, staff shall expect to wear professional clothing and present a professional image. Terry interrupted, “I know what professional clothes are. I’ve been working at this company for a while now.” Natalie looked at him like a teacher staring at the know-it-all child.  “Terry, haven’t we found enough misunderstandings and misinterpretations already today.

I’m required to tell you the rules.  You are required to listen and learn.  If you already know everything, this should be an easy portion of today’s session.” Terry felt totally cowed.  He just nodded. Moira enjoyed the way Natalie handled Terry. Natalie continued the lesson.  “Now, if I may continue.  Most people in the office will be wearing suits.  A suit is defined as a jacket paired with a pair of slacks or a skirt.  Some designers sell a dress and jacket combination for professionals.

A suit is not made up of separates.  In other words, Jackets and bottoms should be made from the same material and they should be styled similarly.  Your company is a conservative company.  There will be no palazzo pants, no short pants, no skin-tight pants, no mini-skirts, etc.  The jacket's styling is based on the designer who produces the suit.

The company wants traditional suits.” “Skirts will be at or below the knee.  The only exception to this rule may be when the company provides a uniform or at special events or receptions where the company will provide guidance on clothing expectations.” “Colors,” she continued, “Suits shall be made up of conservative colors which will typically be black, grey, dark brown, navy blue, and sometimes beige.  It is possible that a very dark red would be acceptable.  But a fire engine red would not be acceptable.  Any questions so far?” Terry and Moira shook their heads.

“At work, it is acceptable for employees to remove their jackets while working at their desks.  For meetings and any outside activity, the coat will be worn.  Look to the executives for guidance on when it is okay to remove a coat.  Now, when someone is assisting in a meeting, providing snacks, refreshments, or even delivering documentation or handouts, a coat may not be needed.

However, all sleeves will be fully extended and shirts and blouses will be buttoned in a professional manner.  Again you should look to whoever is leading the event for guidance on whether you should wear the jacket.” This all seemed common sense to Terry.  Moira seemed to agree. Natalie started up again, “Tops including shirts and blouses is our next area.  We have discussed the fact that you need tops that accommodate your assets.

Your principal tops for work are going to be blouses.  I know that right now you want to get tops that don’t highlight the fact they are designed for women.  But this is one of the areas where you have some flexibility to express yourself.  You are going to want some silk, probably washable silks.  You are also going to want some linen-cotton blends.  There are new breathable fabrics that will not cause you to sweat.  You need to avoid anything with ruffles, lace, or frilly edges.  Forget about colorful accents, buttons, and bows.

That is not professional.  Any nice touches should be subdued and minimal.  Less is often better.” Natalie looked like she remembered something, “We can’t forget about the hose.  According to the dress code, employees with manicured toenails will select hose that augments their outfit.  Stockings will be one or two shades lighter than the suit color being worn unless the employee is wearing a top that exposes their arms.

For professionals whose arms will be exposed, nude hoses are expected.  The choice of pantyhose or stockings should be dictated by personal preference and the other clothing selected.  Stocking tops and garters should not be visible at any time in a professional environment.”  Natalie paused and took a drink.  Terry looked thoughtful.  “Natalie, a few minutes ago, did you convince me the rules said I had to have my nails professionally manicured?” “Yes, Terry.  You said you were going to go with clear polish.” “Does that include my toes?” “Yes, Terry it does include all your toes.” “Does that mean that this last section where you talked about hose and stocking might apply to me?” Natalie’s eyebrows raised a little bit, “Of course, that’s what it means.  The idiots that wrote these rules were just trying to force the women to wear stockings.  It’s all convoluted.  Crazy really.” Terry was really getting worried now.

Stockings would be under his pants.  Who would know what he was wearing?  That is just a silly rule.  Of course, he wrote that rule never expecting it to apply to himself. “Our next topic is shoes,”  Natalie said brightly.  “We all love to buy shoes.  Of course in a professional environment, we have to be selective in our choices.  Sandals are not acceptable.  Neither are extremely high heels.  Shoes should have a closed toe.  The dress code prohibits tie shoes except in a Mary-jane style shoe with a 1 ½ inch heel or higher.  Boots are not allowed except for special occasions.

There are times when members of the executive staff are assigned to work both in business and charitable events.  For these special occasions, the company may not only dictate clothing or provide an outfit, they may also dictate shoe styles, colors, and heel heights.  Employees staffed to these events are considered representatives of the company and any variance from the uniform or unacceptable behavior can be a cause for termination.  Shoes are a crucial part of a professional wardrobe.  Shoes should fit as perfectly as possible because besides finishing your look, they contribute to your health and well-being.  Bad shoes cause bad posture, and neck and leg pain and create foot issues like bunions and corns.  Shoes must supply support and be comfortable for walking both within the workplace as well as to and from work.

For the typical person wearing pantyhose or stockings, the professional wardrobe requires some type of pump.  This is a shoe with a moderate heel of around one inch or up to two inches for people that want a little more height.  The moderate heel is classy and sensible without being frumpy.  Shoes should be elegant, tasteful, and not the first thing people notice about you. Some people look at your shoes first and consider good shoes an indicator of taste and breeding.  If you’re wearing the right shoes, they will pass muster so to speak and the rest of you and your attire will then be evaluated.

Shoes should be made of good quality leather or something which cannot be distinguished from leather.  Ideally, your shoes will also point up the finer aspects of your legs without trying too hard.  The toes of your shoes can be slightly rounded for comfort, or if you have narrow feet, slightly triangular toes are all right.  If you have wider feet, you may need to go for a boxy toe.  Consider checking out shoe designers who provide deeper rather than wider toe boxes. The company allows tasteful boots in fall and winter is acceptable. The perfect boot for the workplace is sleek and sophisticated, with no trendy additions. It should be brown or black, have a medium heel, leather, or suede finish, and should hit you one to two inches below the knee.

We recommend trying boots on with your work skirt before committing to a purchase to make sure the combination works. A hidden zipper is your best bet: lace-ups look a little too Victoria's Secret to be professional. Terry felt the need to clarify, “You are covering this section because you are required to cover it, not because you think this applies to me, right?” Natalie responded, “Terry, you are an employee of the company.  All the dress code rules apply to you.  You have to figure out which rules apply to you at any given time.

Neither I nor the company expects you to wear stilettos either at the office or elsewhere.  But, you will probably be wearing some form of stockings or pantyhose.  Your shoes are going to fit differently.  You need to try things on.  You might get by with a generic slide or a low pump with a short heel like a loafer.  But, you probably think you can wear socks over the stockings.  Right?” Terry nodded. “Well, your socks are going to slide on the stockings.  This is going to make your shoes feel funny and could affect your posture.  I suggest you consider a thicker form of stockings or hose that resemble expensive men’s dress hose.

Then get shoes that fit.  It will be better for your health and more comfortable.  I doubt you have a lot of people staring at your ankles.” Terry was thoughtful and mumbled agreement.  “If I didn’t mention it before the company has a policy regarding visible tattoos for the executive staff.  If you have a visible tattoo or a tramp stamp that might become exposed during office hours, you should use a good cover-up to keep it hidden.

If you have something on your arms, legs, or chest, these areas should remain covered at all times. “ “Good!  Now that we have moved on, we need to get ready for the next phase of our day.  You two need to don a salon smock and you should retrieve your bras from your lockers.  Finish your tea and we’ll move on.”  Terry and Moira retrieved their bras from the lockers and entered the dressing rooms and each put on their bra and a salon smock.

Moira waited but there was no surprise reaction from Terry in the next room.  She wondered how long it would be till he noticed his hairless body. Natalie explained that the dress code required them to have their hair done professionally.  Executive staff who wore bras were expected to have hair over a certain length.  The expectation was that they would maintain a professional style.  Natalie explained that Terry needed to get his hair cleaned up.  He had split ends and he needed some body and shape.  Terry was wary of her descriptions but it sounded harmless.  He was still in a bit of a floating daze from the tea and its special additions.