Uniforms have long been a staple in Japanese society, both in schools and workplaces. As exemplified by high school baseball, hairstyles were also regulated. This trend is gradually being reconsidered, and it appears that this trend is now reaching the workplace as well. A growing movement is underway to revise rules regarding appearance in various workplaces. The aim is to increase employee motivation by creating a more supportive working environment. It also appears to be aimed at securing talent in light of the recent labor shortage. It is also expected to bring out the individuality of employees and promote proactiveness and independence. For example, Tokyo Metro previously had grooming rules for its train crew and station staff. After revising these rules, men are now permitted to wear jewelry such as earrings and nail polish, as long as it does not interfere with work. Initially, there were several complaints from customers, but these have now been resolved. Station staff appear to be more motivated, saying, “I’ve become more careful in my customer service so as not to be perceived negatively.”
Liberalization and diversification of dress code are also beginning to spread to civil servant workplaces, which have a reputation for being rigid. In Higashimurayama City, Tokyo, mid-level employees led a proposal to the mayor to liberalize dress code. They called for the abolition of internal rules such as “no patterned pants” and “tucked-in shirts.” This proposal was accepted, and now some employees wear suits, while others wear collarless shirts and jeans. Japan has a conservative culture that values discreet appearance. Stereotypes such as “black hair means seriousness” and “high school baseball players should be shaved” remain deeply rooted. Meanwhile, some municipalities that prioritize tourism and local specialties have adopted more flexible dress codes. Iwaki City, Fukushima Prefecture, is home to a Hawaiian center. To promote the center, there is a season when employees wear aloha shirts and muumuus. While the benefits of tourism to the region are important, a trend toward liberalization and diversification of dress code seems to have emerged from the perspective of respecting individuality.
Creating a comfortable working environment for foreign workers involves many issues that Japan’s current rules cannot address. There seems to be a growing trend to increase employee motivation by creating an environment that employees can be themselves, regardless of gender or nationality. Creating a comfortable working environment for foreign workers involves many issues that Japan’s current rules cannot address. Consideration is particularly required for Muslims. There are currently an estimated 300,000 to 400,000 Muslims in Japan. Companies that employ them take into consideration their customs, diet, and prayer habits. For example, with regard to beards, which are common among Muslims, many companies seem to allow them as long as they fit inside the mask, while still requiring the wearing of masks while at work. Japanese companies continue to explore future clothing rules amid increasing diversity in gender, nationality, religion, and other factors.
