The Influence of Appropriateness of Dress and Gender on The Self-Perception of Occupational Attributes

Abstract

This study investigated male and female perceptions of the role clothing plays in enhancing ten occupational attributes: responsibility, competence, knowledgability, professionalism, honesty, reliability, intelligence, trustworthiness, willingness to work hard, and efficiency. The objective was to investigate gender differences of perceived influence of dress on enhancement of occupational attributes mediated by (a) two dress modes (properly dressed and not properly dressed), (b) subjects' self-perceptions of their own attributes, and (c) subjects' clothing interests. Data collected from 132 males and 190 females supported the belief that clothing generally enhances self-perception of occupational attributes. Males generally believed proper clothing can enhance occupational attributes (intelligence, competence, knowledgability, honesty, and reliability) and this belief was influenced by perceptions of their own attributes and clothing interests. Females did not believe many attributes could be enhanced by manipulation of clothing, and their belief was not influenced by perceptions of occupational attributes or clothing interests.