Posts Tagged ‘dress code’
What should a graphic designer wear?
As freelance graphic designers we enjoy a lot of freedom; the freedom to work from home - in a comfortable environment, the freedom to work the hours that are suitable for us and the freedom to decline projects that we think just aren’t right for us.
One freedom I particularly enjoy, which I’ve never really noticed until now, is the freedom to wear what we want. From working at home in your favourite jogging bottoms or your fluffy pj’s to meeting clients in jeans and Led Zeppelin t-shirts, we have the choice to present ourselves as we see fit.
I usually dress quite smart, particularly if I am meeting a client (especially if it’s for the first time). It’s often the norm to find graphic designers, photographers and artists in a more casual dress code and I believe it is acceptable due to the creative industry we are in. I don’t think it compromises our professionalism or work ethic. I love the Mac vs PC adverts and think the difference in dress demonstrates the difference between a “creative” and “non creative” excellently.
However, do you ever feel under pressure to dress a little more quirky or colourful due to your job title? I was recently off to meet a client for the first time and looked at my outfit and thought I looked a little dull and I needed something to show I was a “creative”. Everyone has heard of wearing a bright tie in an interview to make them stand out from all the other candidates, so do you think that as a graphic designer you are under pressure to make a statement with what you wear? If so what happens when you get this wrong? Could it do more harm than good?
Overall I think it is a practical choice to work in something comfortable rather than having to sit in a stiff suit for eight hours a day. And when it comes to meeting clients I believe there is no right or wrong in our industry it all depends on how you prefer to be seen.
So what do you think? Do you think that as a graphic designer it is perfectly acceptable to dress down? Or do you think this damages the industry and makes us appear too relaxed and casual? Have you ever felt the need to dress a little quirky to define your role as a stereotypical designer?
Tags: dress code, freelance, Graphic Design
Posted in Freelancing, Graphic Design | 4 Comments »