Published on 12, July, 2020
Hi all,
Iv recently been diagnosed with ASD and was wondering if anyone had ever felt uncomfortable with a companies dress code?
My workplace is changing from casual to suits (Formal) even tough we don't see anyone and work purely by phone. I find suits very uncomfortable especial the restrictiveness of wearing a tucked in shirt to trousers and have always opted for black jeans in the event of a one off occasion.
Wearing restrictive clothes general causes me to sweat (To the point I would be asked if I just got out the shower) and feel really hot.
I was wondering if anyone knows if there is anything I could do?
Has anyone else had this issue?
Would it count as a reasonable adjustment to wear dark jeans? If so would my employer have to allow it?
Thank you and please leave any other thoughts as it is of interest.
Thank you,
I would find this very challenging. I don't like tight, inflexible clothing. I like it to be comfortable and loose. I wear black trousers (this was a big step for me), black trainers and a comfortable, plain jumper for work. It's never been an issue. Our dress code isn't casual but it isn't as formal as suits either. I would find it really uncomfortable wearing more formal clothing. I'm female by the way.
I would have thought clothing could be a reasonable adjustment. Especially as you work over the phone so really why is it an issue anyway. It's certainly worth a discussion.
As to whether your employer has to allow it is a little more complicated as it depends a little on what they think is reasonable. Others on here have had experience asking for reasonable adjustments. It's not something I've ever had to do.
Thank you for replying.
I have pushed the issue with my employer that I am never seen anyway, and was told that I must wear a suit. I think they are doing this to be awkward.
I am now in the process of getting a Doctors note in relation to my ASD in hopes this will help with my employers decision.
Having to wear suits even though most of your work is by phone doesn't seem to make much sense!I hope your doctor's note will help him understand how uncomfortable and challenging wearing suits can be, and make some adjustments.