Business Clothing For Females: Suitability For Effective Workplace Job Performance in Nigeria

Abstract

The study investigated business clothing for females that are suitable for effective workplace job performance in Nigeria. It identified fabric characteristics of females’ business clothing already used; fabric characteristics needed and deign style preference suitable for females’ business clothing for workplace job performance. The study was guided by four research questions and two hypotheses. Population was 4,806 female civil servants in Delta state, Nigeria. Multi- stage sampling technique was utilized to select 136 females. Structured questionnaire was employed to collect data and descriptive statistics and t-test were used for data analysis. Finding showed that cotton, nylon, lacra fabrics, light and medium fabric weight, blue, black, gray, colors, cool texture, rough, smooth surface plain, stripe and flowered design among others were fabric characteristics of business clothing are being used in workplace. But prefer and need cotton,  nylon, lacra, light weight, black, blue, gray, brown colours, cool, plain, surface fabrics.  Net, organza, heavy weight, white, yellow, toweling fabrics were not preferred. Findings further showed that straight gown, waist flared and gathered gowns, skirt, blouse and suit/jacket, straight, shirt, long sleeves, garment with or without collar, below knee length, peter and convertible collars, among others were highly preferred design styles of clothes. In conclusion, office workers determine what they wear to perform workplace daily jobs promotes self-confidence, comfort, professional worth and productivity. It was recommended that female employees should not downplay appropriate work attires for comfort and organizational productivity to satisfy fashion trends.