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Workplace dress code evolution during heatwaves

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2026-08-25 12:26 UTC → 2026-08-26 22:03 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Rising temperatures are prompting a re-evaluation of professional workplace dress codes. In Switzerland, friction arose at Swiss Re after an executive advised male employees that shorts are intended for weekends, a move criticized because the company lacks an official policy and the guidance appeared to target men specifically. On a broader scale, heatwaves are driving a shift in professional fashion across global cities including Tokyo, London, Frankfurt, and Warsaw. Traditional requirements for long trousers are being challenged by the increasing acceptance of linen fabrics, T-shirts, and shorts. In Tokyo, the ‘Cool Biz’ campaign has already encouraged the removal of ties and jackets, while European retailers report growing demand for breathable summer-style professional attire as the distinction between office wear and leisurewear continues to blur. This evolution is accelerating as extreme heat and changing perceptions of masculine attire lead to the increasing acceptance of shorts in professional environments. While long trousers were once a strict requirement, companies are increasingly relaxing rules to prioritize practicality. In Japan, the ‘Cool Biz’ program has facilitated a shift toward more relaxed clothing, including shorts, T-shirts, and sneakers. Similar trends are emerging in Europe, where businesses are re-evaluating standards to distinguish between casual athletic wear and more appropriate, professional versions of summer attire.

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