'Wearing sandals with jeans is criminal'
SJ speaks to corporate immigration lawyer Rajiv Naik on fashion faux pas and the future of casual wear in the office
Is your style appreciated in the office?
‘Appreciated’ is a little strong, although it is a friendly office and my colleagues are always complimentary to each other if they see someone wearing something that they like. I’ve received a few nice comments, albeit not for a while so I probably need to up my game.
Who is the most fashionable lawyer in your office?
This is a tough question and one which I had to consult my peers on. We have a number of very trendy characters in the office and there is one senior associate with an incredible selection of Nike Air Ones who surely deserves credit.
Who is your style inspiration?
I’m not really sure. I would like to say that I have my own style, but that said, I would struggle without ASOS.
What’s more important, comfort or style?
It depends – when out and about, I would have to go with style – when at home, comfort all the way.
What’s your favourite brand?
This is a close call between Farah Vintage and Jack Wills.
How long has dress-down Friday (DDF) been implemented in your firm?
I’m not sure, but I’ve been here for three-and-a-half years and we’ve always had it.
Do some still see DDF as an Americanism?
I think so, although it’s become more popular in the UK. The train on Friday mornings is always full of people in tan shoes and jeans.
What’s your biggest fashion faux pas?
Wearing sandals with jeans! Criminal!
What’s the worst item a colleague has ever worn?
This is too dangerous to answer, but one of my colleagues once saw a pair of trousers
I was wearing and immediately went and ordered the same pair that day. By chance,
I wore them again a few weeks later and he came to work wearing them as well, with a similar jumper and shoes to what I was wearing. While I was flattered he liked what I was wearing, it was still embarrassing and a little odd! He’s a good friend though so I let him off.
How long does it take you to get ready?
From waking up to leaving the house, one hour.
What effect does DDF have on office morale?
It’s great, it really gets people in the mood for the weekend.
With remote working becoming more of a feature of the modern working life, will formal office wear become redundant in the future?
I don’t think so, especially for client meetings. Formal wear and smart office surroundings definitely help to set a professional and impressive tone. SJ
Raj Naik is a senior associate at Fragomen