Short-sleeve weather is undoubtedly here in Maryland by May or June, but whether or not it is work-appropriate is another question. Short sleeves are generally considered to be less formal for work, and in some industries, they could even be unsafe. Are short-sleeve shirts professional or not? Lord Baltimore Uniform Rental is here to help you decide.
Are Short-Sleeve Shirts Professional?
Yes, they absolutely can be professional in any work environment! Short-sleeve shirts can still look just as smart as long-sleeved shirts given they have the right cut and fit.
When you ask, “Are short-sleeved shirts professional?” it begs the question of what professional really means. In one sense, professional means formal. In that case, short sleeves can still look just as professional. The only rule is that a short-sleeve shirt with a tie is a big no-no, and suit jackets ideally pair with long-sleeved shirts to show off a hint of the cuffs.
Another definition of professional would be in the practical sense. Is it suitable for your profession? For that, we shall jump to the next section.
Are Short-Sleeve Shirts the Most Functional?
Some industries, such as manufacturing, may have employees work in hazardous work environments. In some cases, they may need protective garments against electrical fires, combustible metal fires, etc. Long-sleeved PPE might be the industry standard.
On the other hand, contractors like home improvement and public works companies may work outdoors for their job. Doing physical labor in hot weather calls for short-sleeved shirts, naturally, granted that employees do not need protection from thorns, poison ivy, harsh chemicals, etc.
Designing Your Short-Sleeve Work Uniforms
Fit
The shirt should not be too tight nor too baggy. It should be form-fitting, which means that different employees may need different cuts to fit their body type. A shirt that fits automatically looks professional, whether it is short-sleeved or long-sleeved.
Style
In an office setting, a button-up shirt is the best style option. It is the ultimate formal shirt. Lord Baltimore Uniform Rental can help you decide on the best collar, button-up shirt style, etc. If employees perform physical labor, a polo is the perfect marriage between formality and ruggedness. For the ultimate casual shirt, T-shirts are best. They work well for outdoor work and promo wear.
Branding
Lord Baltimore can also help you with your work uniform’s branding. Work uniforms take on the company’s brand colors and logo. If you include the logo, you can choose between screen printing and embroidery, as well as different logo placements.
Trust Your Employee Uniforms to the Professionals at Lord Baltimore
For over forty years, Lord Baltimore has provided cost-effective uniform rental services throughout the East Coast, including Maryland, Washington DC, Northern Virginia, Southern Pennsylvania, and Delaware.
To learn more about how employee uniforms can help your business, please contact Joe Bateman at Lord Baltimore by calling 800-292-1224 or visit LordBaltimoreUniform.com. We also handle uniform and mat rentals and purchases for restaurants. Additionally, we also sell and rent uniforms, shop towels, fender covers, and mats for the manufacturing and automotive industries.