Wearing a uniform conveys group identity, a collective agreement amongst involved parties working towards a common goal. Aside from technical purposes, like preventing contamination and other safety precautions for workers in hazardous environments, there are psychological factors behind the dress codes in different settings.

How Wearing Uniform Affects Us

Rachel Zoe, a distinguished fashion designer and entrepreneur, once said, "(Fashion) style is a way to say who you are without having to speak." Like it or not, what you wear will always communicate something to others and yourself.

There are two psychological factors at play here—first, humans are highly-visual creatures. Second, cognitive psychologists coined the term "enclothed cognition" for this phenomenon which describes a clothes' influence on the wearer's frame of mind.

This is why seeing the people around you following a dress code provides a sense of camaraderie and pride whilst putting everyone on equal ground. It says that you have each other's back and you belong to the same pursuance of one common desire.

Psychological Merits of Wearing A Uniform

Uniforms in a military setting present a strong conviction that everyone is disciplined and honoured with their patriotic responsibility. You intentionally empower yourself and other people when you invest your time and effort to choose the proper clothing. Here are some advantages to wearing appropriate uniforms:

       1.  Promoting professional manners amongst employees

Dress code encourages proper behaviour in the office. It signifies that upholding rules and regulations of the organisation is essential. The employees will associate themselves to the company’s vision.

According to the professional cooks from Monkey Foodz, wearing proper kitchen uniforms creates an environment of culinary expertise and artistry. They claimed, “You will be recognised easily by proudly owning your profession through what you wear. Consistently dress for your work to eventually earn the respect of your chosen practice.”

       2.   Strengthen the company's brand

People outside the organisation will perceive a standard uniform amongst employees as a strong identity. Colour scheme, style, and logo all work together to speak a company's silent language to the world. Customer-facing employees serve as brand ambassadors for your company's image, which emphasises further the necessity of adhering to correct organisational attire.

      3.    Dictates mood and atmosphere

Casual clothing and formal attire feel different on the same occasion. Sharp dresses convey sophistication and power. Light-coloured uniforms announce a warm and friendly environment. The physical attributes of a uniform can also trigger emotional states. A smooth and soft fabric feels comfortable and will positively affect an employee's performance while working. On the contrary, poorly groomed and unhygienic appearance of uniforms will hurt the workplace's mood dramatically.

     4.    Provides a sense of belonging amongst employees

Humans have a deep-rooted desire to belong. We embody the unity that our organisation presents. Also, emotional harmony is created when we share the same features as our companions. Strong bonds are made with this and will propel the company's morale to the skies.

Keep in mind that clothing impacts thinking. Managers and those in charge of the company's image must take uniform policy seriously. Consistency in wearing proper attire will establish the respect and authority your organisation emanates to the world.

That is why you need to provide your employees with the reliable and standardised uniforms they need.

Murray Uniforms is a trusted supplier of professional apparels in Australia. We help numerous companies build a strong brand identity, boost employee morale, earn the trust of customers, and uphold industry standards with high-quality and creative uniforms. Check your options here!