Gen Z is taking inspiration from the fashion of the late 1990s and early 2000s to update traditional office wear and having fun with it.
The “office siren” trend has spread across TikTok, with some videos garnering millions of views.
The bold corporate style takes inspiration from films such as “The Devil Wears Prada” and the TV series “Sex and the City” – think miniskirts, stiletto heels and slim-lined glasses.
Critics of the trend, particularly its emphasis on short skirts, form-fitting garments and low-cut blouses, have labelled it impractical or inappropriate for the office.
Some argue that this trend has dangerous implications rooted in sexism.
“There are loads of issues to unravel around this hugely popular TikTok office trend,” Kate Palmer, director of employment services at HR and employment law consultancy Peninsula, told Business Insider.
“This trend appears to be primarily targeted at young female employees and has sexual, sexist and ageist connotations which have no place in the workplace,” she said.
Palmer explained that in most cases, it’s inappropriate to wear “provocative” clothing to work.
“The connotation of the term ‘office babe’ reaffirms the outdated stereotype of the ‘sexy secretary’ and the idea that women dress in the workplace with male gazes in mind,” she said.
HR TikTok users have responded to this trend by posting videos on TikTok to express what style is acceptable in the workplace and what should be left for free time.
Marie Ellard Corporate stylist The Australia-based actress previously told BI that outfits such as miniskirts are not appropriate for the office.
In one TikTok VideosShe demonstrated that wearing a miniskirt makes it impossible to bend or sit comfortably.
She says that wearing uncomfortable clothes only adds to daily stress.
“If you’re not able to move functionally and you’re dressing with the sole purpose of standing upright, then you need to stop doing that,” she added.
