One person only wants this particular brand, another finds the chosen trousers uncomfortable. A third finds the color of the workwear unspeakable. The employer, on the other hand, insists on a uniform appearance in the corporate design and the clothing he has chosen. What can the employer decide? And does the employee really have to wear what his boss wants?

According to the Industrial Code, the employer may specify how his company, including the workforce, should appear to the outside world. However, this is countered by personal rights, which again restrict this authority. The decisive factor is always whether the employer has a legitimate interest in determining the external appearance of the employees - i.e. if they represent the company in a publicly visible manner. In most cases, the following also applies: the less customer contact, the fewer regulations regarding clothing. The exception to this is, of course, if special work clothing or protective equipment is required in the workplace for safety or hygiene reasons.

What does this mean in practice? "The introduction of corporate fashion is a process that challenges everyone involved," says Thomas Krause from textile rental service provider DBL. "What's more, in many cases, the topic falls under co-determination." He believes it makes sense and is necessary to involve the works council, employee representatives or a project group in the planning. "In this way, many good ideas and suggestions are brought in and a very high level of acceptance is achieved among the employees - and that is important, as corporate fashion doesn't work without them."

The expert's experience also shows that only open internal cooperation between management and the team leads to a solution that proves itself in everyday working life. That's why the textile professional believes that detailed advice, including an individual needs analysis, is part of the concept before any decisions are made. "In my view, it makes sense to let the team help decide. We also offer wear tests on request. We focus on variety in the items we offer so that everyone can find the right item for their size and individual taste, while still maintaining a uniform appearance. Today, this is easily compatible."