Uniform not only creates a great sense of equality among a group of people but it is also a good way to represent an institution. Though there are different advantages of the practice of wearing a uniform, we can’t rule out the demerits of it.
So, let's discuss some of them:
Restriction of freedom: Freedom of expression enables us to express ourselves freely and wear clothes according to our choice. Uniforms, on the other hand, restrict this freedom as everyone has to wear the same type of garment. For the employees, clothing can be a way of expressing who they are, things they believe in or their personal preferences. The uniformity required in an organization restricts the individual from expressing themselves in the way they find suitable.
Lack of comfort: Uniforms may cause discomfort or irritation due to poor uniform fabric quality, lack of stretchability, cuts and designs, poor fitting, colour etc. Also, the fabric used in the uniform may not suit the skin type and it can be uncomfortable for them. Poor fabric quality selection without a proper understanding of the right fabric choice in order to reduce costs leads to an uncomfortable uniform causing skin issues, irritation, and discomfort to the employees.
Gender-specific uniforms: If an organization creates gender-specific uniform rules disregarding the opinions of the employees that may create resentment among them. An employee must have the right to choose the type of uniform and any kind of prohibition in this regard can hurt their sentiments. Gender- neutral designs should be considered by organizations to resolve this problem.
Size issues: It is quite possible to have people of different body shapes within a team of employees. It becomes really difficult for the employers to cater uniforms according to the body type, shape and size of every employee and even if they customize uniforms, the cost increases manifold.
Impression: People who wear the uniform of an organization are viewed as the representatives of that organization in society. Untidiness or inappropriate use of uniforms by certain employees can harm the reputation of an organization.
New normal uniforms: In the post – Covid situation, organizations will have to provide masks, face shields or even PPEs to their employees to maintain safety. These factors add an extra burden of expense on organizations which can be troublesome for them.
Conclusion: There are some undeniable limitations that uniforms can impose, but with foolproof planning, preference survey and leniency in uniform rules, problems like these can be solved. Uniforms create a sense of togetherness and institutions must plan carefully to maintain that among the group.
