Attitudes toward Appropriate Clothing in Perception of Occupational Attributes

Abstract

The objectives of the study were to (a) investigate college students' perceived importance of occupational attributes related to the work of salespersons, clerks, and waiters/waitresses, jobs which students themselves often hold, and (b) explore the perceived role of appropriate dress in enhancement of the perception of occupational attributes associated with these occupations. Statistical analyses of the data from 134 men and 202 women supported the notion that the importance students placed on perceived occupational attributes increased as perceived job status increased; expectations for salesperson were higher than those for clerk or waiter/waitress. The results also support the notion that appropriate dress often enhances perception of occupational attributes and especially reflects the workers' perceived professionalism, intelligence, and competence.