OK, I think it is time that you helped me adequately address this heated question on office pantyhose. I found some arguments on this debate from a few of my favorite blogs but I would love to hear your thoughts also!
These days, is pantyhose in the office appropriate or outdated?
Office Appropriate
Jen at MBAchic recently posted that you should. “I know you probably only see your mom, aunts, or old ladies wear them, but for these interviews, you want to wear them. Think: they may not be for you, but not too long ago, it was completely unheard of for women to leave the house without this undergarment.
The majority of your potential employers are probably not your age, and for them, pantyhose is just a part of life. You do not want to give a senior partner in the accounting firm any reason to judge (or misjudge) you.”
Outdated
CCG: When I entered the career world out of college, I thought that pantyhose were a must! I wore them to interviews and on the job. I even wore knee highs with pants because I thought I would look more professional and mature. I realized a few months in that not only were they terribly uncomfortable but most women (of all ages) I was working with were not wearing them.
Today, I very rarely see anyone wearing pantyhose. I think times are changing and it isn’t looked down upon anymore to NOT wear pantyhose. Disclaimer: I live in San Diego and things tend to be a little more relaxed than other places such as New York and DC.
It Depends
Sarah Shah responded to my question on Twitter and sent me a link to an article she had written on the topic that says, “The status of pantyhose is changing. The key to surviving the pantyhose dilemma is knowing who you are and who you are going to be with. If you are a Believer and meeting with an UnWrapped (they believe there is never an excuse for pantyhose), it would be wise to rethink the pantyhose. If you are an Unwrapped meeting with a Believer (they believe women can’t leave the house without pantyhose), wearing pantyhose may be key to your success.”
CCG Readers, now you have heard all sides of the argument! What do you think?
Yes, No, or Maybe to office pantyhose?
I am young and i think pantyhoses are wonderful! They make a lady look so elegant and lady-like. For awhile I was a slave to what these stupid fashionistas proclaim – that the hose was too Grandma – but then I decided to be myself – because I LIKE THEM, i really do love how i look in them in formal attire, and i love the way they look, and how they complete me – so i wear them now!
I think people shouldn’t be beholden to these stupid fashion rules set by people randomly! We all should dress how we want – some people might laugh at us, some might join in – who cares, we can only be ourselves.
Love how you said that we should dress how we want. I totally agree! Be yourself and the best thing you can do is wear what will make you feel the most confident, especially in interviews and at work.
I absolutely wear them for interviews! I live in the NW, so I have to wear tights in the fall and winter or I’d freeze. Spring/summer I don’t wear them unless I have a formal event (ie a court appearance). I want to try the spray on for summer – my legs are always so pale!