Let’s Debate: makeup @ work…should it be required?

I once had a boss that made a habit of telling the women on his team to wear makeup. I told him I would begin wearing it daily when: 1) they gave me an additional stipend to offset the cost; and 2) I would do it when he also told our male counterparts to wear it.

It’s a personal choice and choosing not to wear it hasn’t hindered my performance at work. Sometimes I wear it, sometimes I don’t. I never look “unprofessional,” though.

What are your thoughts?

#corporatemakeup #professionalandcomfy #corporatelife #corporategirl #work #career #debate

2024/5/8 Edited to

... Read moreThe conversation about makeup in the workplace continues to evolve, with many advocating for a more inclusive and comfortable environment. Studies show that personal appearance can impact perceptions of professionalism, yet opinions vary widely regarding whether makeup enhances or detracts from one's professional image. It's vital to consider that wearing makeup can be a form of self-expression, but not adhering to this social expectation should not undermine a person's competency. As workplaces strive for equality, discussions regarding makeup can open doors for broader conversations about gender norms and professional expectations. Ultimately, companies should create an inclusive culture where choices about personal grooming reflect individual preferences rather than imposed standards. This debate ties into larger issues around diversity and acceptance in the workplace. Organizations should promote an environment where employees feel empowered to be their authentic selves. This has implications not just for personal choices like makeup, but also for attire and overall representation. By embracing individuality, employers can foster a workplace that values authenticity, drives morale, and enhances productivity.

11 comments

Salem✨Whimsy's images
Salem✨Whimsy

I like your answers because it is a personal choice. Make-up has nothing to do with work performance and for a supervisor to make a comment like that is very sexist to me. I wear only light makeup to cover my dark circles, my other female colleagues don’t wear makeup and the office still runs smoothly.