In a society where men are predominantly still the higher earners in a male dominated hierarchical structure, women already have enough to contend with whilst trying to be noticed in the workplace. Although we may not think it should come down to something as fundamental as a skirt or trouser suit, apparently it may!
Professor Karen Pine co-led a study at the university of Hertfordshire and concluded that a women in a skirt gave a better first impression and would more likely be successful than if they favoured trousers. They were considered more confident and would likely earn a higher salary.
So where did these findings come from? 300 people were asked to make snap judgements of images of women in either a skirt or trouser suit. Both suits were made of the same material and colour and all the facial features of the model used were removed. After just three seconds, the participants strongly favoured the women in the skirt and decided her the more successful.
The professor suggested that this could be due to the skirt suit achieving a balance of professionalism without seeming provocative. On the same tack, the plunging neckline or micro skirt is discouraged because the professional business woman then becomes someone we don’t respect or take seriously.
So work hard, meet deadlines, be innovating. Impress the boss and excel. And wear a suitably lengthed skirt.
The secret to success.