With temperatures hitting highs of 34C this weekend after a scorching week, Brits are understandably melting. But as sunny weather is such a rarity in Britain, many offices don’t have fans, let alone air conditioning, so we have to rely on puffs of hot air blowing in through the windows.
Gone are the days when everyone was expected to wear a suit to work, so many Brits are calling for shorts to be allowed in the office if trainers, jeans, and T-shirts are all accepted in smart-casual dress codes. Others argue they are no different to skirts and dresses, and that everyone needs to have cooler clothing options. However, are shorts smart enough for work?
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The issue was debated on BBC Breakfast this morning, and some took to X to express their views. One user, @petalthepeeg, commented: “Smart shorts are perfectly acceptable, no different to skirt.”
They added: “But what would be suitable men’s footwear to go with shorts? Sandals and trainers are maybe too casual. I’m sure people could bring long trousers to change into if a more formal meeting is happening.”
Denise Rogers queried: “What about the bin men and others that have to work outside in full protective gear? Don’t think there’s a maximum working temperature outside so down to employer to ensure staff are safe.”
SheilaD was more on the fence, saying: “Some leeway in hot weather but there should still be a standard. One of my bugbears is the dropping of standards of dress these days.”