Should I Wear Sandals to Work or Not?

Sandals in general are either too dressy or too casual for the office and not recommended in business, especially in traditional work environments. The “toe cleavage” created by low vamp shoes, or sandal is considered too sexy and just as bad as showing bust or butt cleavage, or skin of any sort like tummy or bare arms. They are inappropriate and unprofessional, plus they take away your “hard-earned” credibility.

Sandals and Stilettos that you would wear clubbing or any high heels that prevent you from walking normally are not appropriated for work. Summer casual shoes that you would wear outside of work on weekends or evenings, on the beach or for gardening such as Birkenstocks, thong sandals, flip-flops, or Crocs, do not belong in the workplace either. Keep them for your social life.

When you wear shoes that are not relevant to the activity you are doing or “out of context” to the place you are going, i.e. going to work wearing sexy sandals or Stilettos, you project the image of someone who is confused, and lacks judgment by showing very poor discernment. If you don’t know where you are going and can’t decide what’s appropriate, how can others trust you to make the best decision when it comes to their business?

It’s been my experience that women tend to take liberties in business that often plays against them by undermining their professionalism and credibility. As the business world is still more male-oriented, I recommend caution. To help you decide if you should or not, here are few simple rules of thumb:<p></p>

• Remember that while at work, you are paid to represent your company’s best interests, not yourself. So unless you plan to be the “talk of the office” and be “remembered for your lack of taste and appropriateness” … choose wisely!
• Because others around you do it … it doesn’t mean that it is acceptable. They might be just as clueless as you. So do your homework … and check with your company’s HR department and find out about your company’s dress code policies.
• Still can’t decide? Picture this scenario: On a very hot day, your male colleague comes to work in his suit and decides to wear his sandals (without socks). What kind of impressions does he make? Would you take him seriously?

When in doubt … just don’t do it and keep your credibility. Better safe than sorry!