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Workers follow 'gangster chic' dress code to be seen as powerful leaders

Thursday 1st October 2009

By Mike Jones

British workers are taking their fashion advice from Quentin Tarantino and are power-dressing in black and white - like the sharp suited characters from Reservoir Dogs - so they are seen as leaders in the workplace.

That is the claim of those behind the 2009 Travelodge discarded clothing catalogue - the hotel chain’s annual clothing inventory report.

It reveals that 60% of the 14,786 shirts left behind at Travelodge hotels were white, while 80% of the 1005 discarded business suits and 40% of the 3105 forgotten ties were black. In addition 50% of the 69,986 socks left behind by customers were also black.

To further investigate into the trend of monochrome business attire being left behind at its hotels - Travelodge surveyed 5000 British workers to obtain their views on business wear.

Key findings revealed seven out of ten British workers turn to a smart black suit and a crisp white shirt when they need to "dress to impress" within the work and business environment.

Leading UK psychologist, Corrine Sweet, said: "Due to the economic climate, 2009 has been one of the toughest years in decades within the work and business environment. Rivalry amongst workers has never been so fierce, therefore in a bid to stand out amongst co-workers, British workers have opted for 'power dressing' by wearing black and white.

"Monochrome colours are solid powerful colours. By dressing in black and white an individual can visually display their authority, seriousness of purpose, professionalism and allow their personality to shine through."

Have your say on this story using the comment section below

View Comments 3 comments

Posted By Big bonus on Tuesday 15th December 2009 07:53:12
Hello Sorry, but:

Posted By Carol on Thursday 19th November 2009 05:48:55
When have black and white NOT been considered great professional wear?

Posted By captaintc14 on Thursday 1st October 2009 12:00:12
It's called the James Bond effect (without the bow tie).

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