“There are two things going on here. Companies make the uniform ‘not a uniform’ by making it look casual. And then they nullify the casual aspect of it by putting people in something that advertises who they work for.”
“Historically, uniform-wearing workers of low status were not considered valuable advertising tools for their employers, but that has changed in recent years. The rise of the “corporate casual” uniform reflects the way we think about class today. The chasm between rich and poor is wider than ever; but our work uniforms seem to reassure us that, dressed a certain way, we can all pass as middle class. And selling the middle class to the middle class is what corporate culture is all about.”
Premium Member
Portland, Oregon