A survey by law firm, Slater and Gordon, of 2,000 employees has found that employers regularly tell women to put on more makeup, wear high heels and short skirts. The survey revealed that large numbers of women feel their employer has unfairly criticised their appearance in the workplace, with 19% saying they felt more attention was paid to their appearance by their bosses than to their male peers. 7% of women have been told by bosses they preferred them to wear high heels whilst in the office or with clients, because it made them “more appealing”. Many women revealed they had been told to dress more provocatively and to be “sexier” – with 86% of those pressured to dress “sexier” and feeling their career might suffer if they didn’t comply. Men were also aware of the disparity, with 48% saying they felt that their dress code was more clearly defined and colleagues were far less likely to comment about their appearance than that of their female colleagues.

Content Note

The aim is to provide summary information and comment on the subject areas covered. In particular, where employment tribunal and appellate court cases are reported, the information does not set out full details of all the facts, the legal arguments presented by the parties and the judgments made in every aspect of the case. Click on the links provided to access full details. If no link is provided contact us for further information. Employment law is subject to constant change either by statute or by interpretation by the courts. While every care has been taken in compiling this information, SM&B cannot be held responsible for any errors or omissions. Specialist legal advice must be taken on any legal issues that may arise before embarking upon any formal course of action.