My new team lead wears tank tops that make her look like she's not wearing a shirt.

93 Comments

1. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 5:24PM UTC

   I think simply stating that her new role requires a more professional appearance on days she's expected to be on camera should suffice. You could let her know that she can just throw on a cardigan or button down over her tank top on those days and that would be enough.

2. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 5:27PM UTC

   Maybe she doesn't even know? I mean, when I'm home, I'm rather casual...and, well, sometimes I go braless. I realized one day when we were all on a team call that yeah, it was obvious. Perhaps separately, you can talk with her and just say, I'm not sure you are aware but you give the appearance of being topless on camera.

3. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 6:19PM UTC

   Have the frank conversation, don't mince words or be cryptic in your feedback because you're talking about something uncomfortable. "Wanted to make you aware / its been brought to my attention that your attire sometimes presents on Zoom as if you're not wearing a top," The most compassionate thing you can do is call this out in a private discussion and suggest that she consider a sweater over her shoulders or some sort of jacket.

4. AnonymousAugust 22,2024 at 9:12PM UTC

   Agree with the others here. Tell her. Your ta ta's are great, but we'd rather not see your business. Okay, you can't say that, but I wanted to lighten the moment. Definitely tell her it was brought to your attention and wanted to let her know. It also is making some people uncomfortable and they are distracted. Sorry to tell you, you could say, but I'd rather it come from me. Hope that helps and good luck!

5. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 12:34PM UTC

   Is this feedback from co workers in

   a relaxed environment?Is she client facing ? If this is distracting to co workers because they see shoulders and then spend mental energy wondering if there is a shirt that speaks to the immaturity of the group. If she is a star performer adjusting to a new roIe--I would leave this alone unless it was client feedback

6. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 1:20PM UTC

   I’m curious what gender the coworkers are that have given feedback

7. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:39AM UTC

   Both genders

8. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 2:01PM UTC

   In addition to the advice that's been shared here, I'd suggest you prepare with a couple things: 1. Does your company have a written/unwritten attire policy (esp. if role is outward facing with clients or as a team leader). 2. Your team lead may prefer to dress this way and is aware of its impression.

   So make sure when you speak to them that you understand what you're saying. Is it a heads up or is it a directive to change?

   Good luck.

9. Julie WozniakAugust 23,2024 at 2:20PM UTC

   Exactly - just tell her! And I love the screenshot idea!

10. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 3:32PM UTC

    Frankly, here's my advice: Get over yourself and tell your coworkers the same. Dress codes are super ableist, sexist, racist, transphobic, and fatphobic. She's wearing clothes. People are allowed to have bodies. It's not affecting her work. You said it's casual. She's not doing anything wrong.

    Is she "showing off get boobs" or simply wearing a shirt while existing?

11. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 3:32PM UTC

    *her

12. Cheryl WilburgAugust 24,2024 at 12:25PM UTC

    Yeah....no. There is such thing as professional business attire and this is not it. You can be business casual and still look classy. This does not.

13. Daniela PardoAugust 24,2024 at 1:44PM UTC

    100%

14. ShilohAugust 24,2024 at 2:40PM UTC

    Thank you! I have been scrolling the comments looking for SOMEONE to bring this up! On a site for women empowering women, the amount of internalized misogyny is shocking. All humans have bodies. A man in a shirt approximating his skin tone wouldn’t be chastised for “being distracting”. A woman with exposed collarbones and long hair covering her straps shouldn’t be either. This is unacceptable behavior from all of *us*, and any employee shaming their coworker for simply existing. Anything folks aren’t currently used to can be seen as “distracting”, but when it’s anything other than clothing, we get over ourselves: simply existing as a different race or ethnicity than other coworkers are used to, someone’s accent or voice pitch, etc. No one should be accused of being “distracting” simply for existing. A targeting, biased dress code for the purpose of shaming women for having bodies is a terrible precedent and I am ashamed to see it suggested on a site for “women empowering women in the workplace”

15. AnonymousAugust 29,2024 at 1:34PM UTC

    In every business setting I have been in, a man showing up to a meeting without a shirt would have been called out and told to put one on. Nothing misogynistic here.

16. AnonymousAugust 28,2024 at 12:19PM UTC

    Thank you, I can't believe all these people saying sleeveless tops aren't professional. Why?

    Because she's showing her SHOULDERS! (sarcastically clutches pearls)

17. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 3:35PM UTC

    Have a private meeting with her and let her know that her exposed area has been brought to your attention as making others uncomfortable because she looks undressed. If you can get a screenshot of this during the next meeting she will hopefully understand. Alternatively, let her know that you are fine with what she is wearing but during meetings can she wear a shawl or shoulder cover so that it does not appear she is nude.

18. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 5:14PM UTC

    I’m a tank top girl myself, and I have what I call my “zoom shirt”for this exact reason, lol

19. maria roseAugust 23,2024 at 6:23PM UTC

    If you are the immediate supervisor above this team leader, you most certainly don’t need our permission to say something about the impression made of this team leader chosen outfit to wear in a front facing camera Zoom meeting. I am quite sure that your company has , however vague and subject to interpretation, dress code definition of relaxed business attire. And I am quite sure that there is plenty of arguments about freedom of choice and it’s the viewers problem, etc. But what message you are trying to convey to this team leader is their ability to lead is affected by their not understanding their visual appearance to others. Granted even if that’s the most comfortable attire—the tank top—because it’s sleeveless, doesn’t make necessarily make it appropriate. You may have to use a screenshot of this individual‘s appearance to emphasize your message, which again is not disapproval in intent however the implied perception. Also, I was under the impression that when on a Zoom call, there’s a way for the participants to individually see what they appear in the camera, too—in making sure they are focused in the camera view correctly. If this is correct, then also suggest that this individual check their appearance by turning the camera view display so they see what others would see before joining the group Zoom with the camera pointing in the needed direction for the meeting.

20. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 7:47PM UTC

    This exactly and they honesty probably don’t even realize so they would probably appreciate the feedback.

21. AnonymousAugust 23,2024 at 8:03PM UTC

    I agree with everyone else. She needs to know because she probably doesn't ever realize that it comes across that way and is distracting.

    My company has been using Zoom since way before pandemic. We are all held to a dress code. It specifically states that we can not wear tank tops or something with spaghetti straps because it makes it look like you aren't wearing enough clothes, which is offensive to those in other countries, considering that we work with parents and children.

22. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:34AM UTC

    This is a concern for me. We work with many international colleagues who have different cultural expectations for attire.

23. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 12:48PM UTC

    Just tell her !

24. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 12:50PM UTC

    I wear tank tops, and keep a sweater in my office. I live in the South. It is hot outside. :-)

25. Daniela PardoAugust 24,2024 at 1:42PM UTC

    "hey are you aware your hair is covering your tank tops ? Looks like you are topless. You might want to look into that." Easy.

26. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 1:53PM UTC

    Yes, this! Simple, not accusatory, but to the point.

27. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 1:59PM UTC

    One year when I was renewing my driver license (I was much younger), I wore a cute spaghetti strap dress. I put my hair over my shoulders and smiled. The lady that took the photo loudly told me to put my hair back because it looked like I was naked so she needed to retake the picture. Of course seeing me in person or with a wider view, I was not. It was embarrassing and ever since then, I’ve been mindful of that for up narrower photos.

    This employee knows what she is wearing, but those on the call see a limited view. She should be able to see herself in the virtual meeting but she may be one that doesn’t like to look at themself. Based on the positive attributes you listed, she will probably be embarrassed and quickly remedy the issue. Even for remote employees, you can (and should) have parameters for dress code and professionalism. Strappy tank tops are not considered appropriate in any company dress code I have seen. You can always tell her that 1:1 meetings with you- you could care less if she continues to wear a tank top, but broader audience meetings need to adhere to a professional presence (this doesn’t mean suit jacket but at least a shirt with wider straps). There are plenty of options that allow for comfort at home. Refer to the term “dress for the day” if virtual team meetings don’t occur on a daily basis- on the days there aren’t meetings- wear what she wants.

    You don’t have to share who, but you should share what prompted approaching her about this. In multiple instances, concerns were shared from others and as her leader, you want to continue to support her professional growth and champion for her continued success and would hate for something as simple as this to stick out in people’s minds over her strengths and competencies.

    it sounds like there is hesitation to bring this up because she does excel in all other areas. You’re hoping for a way that gets you out of addressing (it can be awkward to have conversations about such little things), but if you respect her as a professional and care about her perception- be honest and give her the feedback.

28. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 1:52PM UTC

    Best reply and solution!

29. Kimberly McKenzie-KlemmAugust 24,2024 at 2:32PM UTC

    Flat out have the conversation...during my divorce, my ex-husband had all of my clothes and I showed up for work wearing inappropriate office wear. My manager took me aside and asked about my situation and then she even contributed a few clothing items to "help out" while I was retrieving the items my ex-husband was holding. You don't have to be judgmental, but someone who cares needs to step up and let her know.

30. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 3:17PM UTC

    This is amazing advice and very kind. I’m sorry that happened to you, but I’m happy you are able to share that perspective.

31. Afo Ogbeyalu KaluAugust 24,2024 at 2:35PM UTC

    As her manager/supervisor, schedule a private meeting, and remind her that the company's dress code is applicable during virtual meetings. Also share with her what you shared in this post, that her skills and contributions are respected and appreciated.

32. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 2:36PM UTC

    Wow. This reminds me of the picture I saw of bridesmaids wearing strapless dresses sitting in the front pew from behind. It looked like they were all naked, and the caption/meme stated, "Be careful of the viewer's perspective because this is what the entire congregation saw throughout the service." I like the one who suggested taking a screenshot to show her how her appearance comes across in meetings. That will say much more than any words ever could.

33. CgAugust 24,2024 at 2:42PM UTC

    One word, cardigan. She can put it on for the meeting and take it off once the meeting is over. What she wears offscreen no one cares about. Or a button up shirt she can throw on over it.

    Modeling the conversation - "Heya we work with a wide variety of people and some people are reacting to the shirts you are wearing in meetings. It would help people feel more comfortable in meeting vs if you would throw on a cardigan, light hoodie, or a t-shirt for meetings. Otherwise you are doing awesome. Keep up the good work" unfortunately people bending the lax rules ends up making companies make dress codes and no one wants that.

34. Milissa JacobsAugust 24,2024 at 3:07PM UTC

    Have you tried talking to her? a simple "I don't know if you realize what you look like on camera" should fix it.

35. Ellen Smith FaganAugust 24,2024 at 3:08PM UTC

    Forward this article to her! That should do it.

36. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 7:43PM UTC

    Have HR release an updated policy addressing dress code for remote workers so you have a policy you can reference and it won't appear as you are targeting her, you are merely pointing out policy which indicates professional dress.

37. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 3:24PM UTC

    yeah, being passive-aggressive is way better than being direct lol

38. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 8:52PM UTC

    I’m a firm believer in being direct. Say to her exactly what you said here.

39. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 10:01PM UTC

    I agree just be direct if you feel it’s worth addressing. Spaghetti straps would be inappropriate for most workplaces. If there’s a policy- point to that. Please don’t create a policy and do a whole staff meeting to point it out. I think employers resort to issues like this because they can’t stomach just having a conversation with the person who needs addressing and everyone knows who is being called out.

40. AnonymousAugust 24,2024 at 10:12PM UTC

    yes you can wear whatever you want when WFH. HOWEVER, if you have a zoom meeting it is not hard to put on a nice top. I do that all the time.

41. surfnwriteAugust 25,2024 at 2:48AM UTC

    But she's not topless. Her hair is covering her straps. Surely at some point she shifts position and this becomes clear. Not worth making an issue, IMO.

42. Wendy SchorrAugust 25,2024 at 2:50AM UTC

    I would say that when the camera is off you can wear whatever you want. But when you're on camera, you should be adhering to your company's dress code as though you were there in person, at least from the waist up. And that's what I would tell her. Tell her exactly what you wrote in your post, that it looks unprofessional and that the spaghetti straps would never be acceptable attire in an in person meeting.

43. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 4:52AM UTC

    Introduce a company dress code for remote meetings and ask all of them to follow it. She can take the hint.

44. Sir John McPoopington XVII JrAugust 25,2024 at 12:43PM UTC

    Yep punish everyone rather than just talk to her. That’s using the ol’ noodle.

45. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 3:22PM UTC

    you must be the queen of passive-aggressiveness. eek.

46. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 12:19PM UTC

    Was this an issue before? Why does she have to have her camera on? If it's not against the dress code, not much you can say.

47. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 12:57PM UTC

    Why do we have to have a meeting full of disembodied voices? It’s especially annoying when the lead chooses to phone it in.

48. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 12:35PM UTC

    Do you recall conference calls?

49. Debbie CreeAugust 25,2024 at 1:52PM UTC

    It is not uncommon for employers to ask for cameras to be on.We lack in person presence. Some just want some kind of “face to face” interaction. Others want to make sure their employees are “present” and paying attention:

50. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 12:34PM UTC

    If you can't trust an employee to be present in a meeting unless their camera is on, you made a bad hire.

51. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:30AM UTC

    This is a leader, not a random team member.

52. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:26AM UTC

    As a team lead of a remote group, having done this same thing myself, I can say 1000000000000% being on camera helps. I'm ALWAYS on camera even if no one else is. It is my expectation that as a team lead she needs to be on camera to help create a bond with her team.

53. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 12:27PM UTC

    I would go the dress code route. The last thing you need is a viral social media post and lawsuit against the company and yourself

54. Sunny DaysAugust 25,2024 at 12:42PM UTC

    ? ??sorry thats all I got. I hate validation seeking behavior, especially at the office.

55. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 1:36PM UTC

    Does her apparel affect her ability to do her job? Is it what would commonly be considered indecent? If not, this is not her problem: it’s everyone else’s problem.

56. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 7:52PM UTC

    Most places frown on spaghetti straps for women unless the employee is wearing a jacket or something else covering her shoulders. On top of that, where the camera cut off, it gave her the appearance of being topless, so I assume it was pretty low-cut as well, which would classify as indecent. Additionally, many places frown upon women's (and men's) underwear (including bra straps) showing. It's not the ability to do the job but the appearance that the employee projects in a professional setting, especially if they are client-facing.

    At the last place I worked, we required coverage from shoulders to knees (both men and women), no spaghetti straps, and no holes in jeans above the knee. Part of our requirement was safety, as we also required closed-toed shoes due to lifting heavy objects that could fall and injure our feet. The other part of the requirement was that some of our clientele were registered sex offenders, so we had to use extra caution and discretion to keep everybody safe. I had to send one intern home to change because her shorts were so short her t-shirt covered them up, making it look like she wasn't wearing any pants.

57. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 8:53PM UTC

    No place I have ever worked has such a rule (and I'd seriously have to reconsider my employment if they did).

    I choose not to use words like "appropriate" or "indecent," because they are judgmental and reflect only my personal values. What you said about covering up because clientele were registered sex offenders is veering dangerously close (for me, at least) to absolving those folks from taking any personal responsibility for their actions--kinda like blaming an assault on the victim because her skirt was too short.

    That aside, though, if this organization trusts that this employee is adult and responsible enough to handle her job, that's kinda the beginning and the end for me.

58. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 1:52PM UTC

    I can tell that you've never worked directly with sex offenders. The dress code did not include "appropriate" or "indecent" in its verbiage because, as you say, it is a value judgment. Instead, it outlined the code. It was extremely casual and covered the body coverage requirements, hygiene, and footwear. Most of us wore jeans. T-shirts and sneakers.

    The safety factor in working with people with a compulsion is not to feed their compulsion. It's not about "blaming the victim." It's about keeping them from becoming one because of the compulsions within the population they work with. Encountering someone who would take advantage in a public venue where you don't know everybody is entirely different than working in an area where you know they are. That's all I'm saying about that one because this doesn't need to go down that rabbit hole. The other safety factors in the dress code were more practical, as one could become injured carrying a 25-pound bag of sugar wearing strappy sandals with a six-inch heel over thresholds and down stairs.

    If keeping you safe in your work environment is not high on your list of priorities, by all means, look elsewhere.

59. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:19PM UTC

    [...words like "appropriate" or "indecent," because they are judgmental and reflect only my personal values.]

    They do reflect your personal values! So does the rest of your comment. You value yourself, and nobody else in the workplace. I bet you are a fantastic team player.

60. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:15PM UTC

    "Is it what would commonly be considered indecent?" - obviously so.

61. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 1:49PM UTC

    You don’t.

62. HaleyAugust 25,2024 at 2:10PM UTC

    If there's not a dress code for online meetings either institute one or don't say anything. If there is and she's violating it, then you can say something.

63. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 2:27PM UTC

    Imagine being an adult, who sounds like they have authority over the person in question, not being able to have an honest conversation with her over a minor issue.

64. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:12AM UTC

    I'm able to, obviously. I'm asking advice on how to do it kindly with minimal embarrassment. Thanks so much for your very helpful comment.

65. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:14PM UTC

    ...and your advice - as an adult - is what, exactly?

66. Maureen B. WeisnerAugust 25,2024 at 2:28PM UTC

    For whatever reason, she must be unaware of how this looks on camera. Suggest addressing this privately. I would be terribly embarrassed if this was how I was being seen and it wasn't addressed.

67. AnonymousAugust 25,2024 at 6:54PM UTC

    As a professional woman that frequently dresses in casual clothes when out in public due to it being more comfortable for me to do so, I always make sure that my clothes are clean and appropriate to be wearing in public establishments. However, most of the places that I have lived in the past and that I'm currently living in now don't have air conditioning and can become uncomfortably hot during the day even with just fans going.

    I'd recommend discreetly speaking to her privately and saying something to the effect I'm not sure if you are aware, but when you appear on camera it appears to some that you may not be wearing a top, that way maybe she could find a different color that doesn't blend in as much for online meetings to give off that appearance. I know as a professional woman I'd sure appreciate someone else telling me, as long as they were kind and discreet about it and did it privately.

68. RhondaAugust 25,2024 at 9:09PM UTC

    Schedule a private 1x1 with her and share exactly what you shared here. Start and end with the positive, then tell her you want her to be aware of this and how this affects the perception of others.

    No matter what people say about "i want to express myself" they need to be aware of how others perceive them. And if they care about those perceptions and how those perceptions may affect their work, the reception of their work, and their future in the company, they can choose to make changes based on that.

69. Kimberly HornsteinAugust 26,2024 at 12:27PM UTC

    Let her unless a meeting with 2 levels up. I often wear tank tops and casual wear unless large meetings or executive presence. We ask people to be there authentic selves. I do for comfort and temperature.

70. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:20AM UTC

    2 levels up from her is my boss, who is in a big chunk of her meetings. He's not said anything but his culture also would not allow him to say anything.

71. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:13PM UTC

    "We ask people to be there authentic selves." And herein lies the problem.

72. Lisa WoodsAugust 26,2024 at 12:56PM UTC

    I would speak with HR for the best way to handling the situation, then proceed. If you do have that conservation, make sure it is in a private setting, and professionally.

73. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 1:30PM UTC

    I would simply bring it up to her in a non-accusatory way that she may want to be aware of how her image is coming across during her on camera appearances during the zoom chats, casually mentioning that maybe adjusting her camera levels or tying her hair up would convey a better image of her. With that being said, whether it's in a zoom or Microsoft Teams Chat meeting, once you enable your camera, you clearly have an idea of how others are seeing you. Just wondering how she herself wouldn't notice how she's appearing.

74. AnonymousAugust 26,2024 at 1:52PM UTC

    could you send out a memo that moving forward everyone is to wear a shirt with sleeves during zoom calls?

    Send it to everyone and she isn't called out?

75. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 12:32PM UTC

    That would be cowardly for a People Leader to address the whole team for one person’s actions. They may take offense to such actions because most or all would know you are really addressing the issue of one person.

76. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:17AM UTC

    This is more at the other responders here which is: our onboarding slides specifically say WEAR CLOTHING IF YOU ARE ON CAMERA. Whenever we prepare for an in person (not Teams, like actual IRL) meeting, I give examples of what appropriate clothing is.

    At our last in person meeting the whole team got this reminder prior to and during.

    I don't think she knows she looks topless. :(

77. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 3:20PM UTC

    I guess you're missing the point of FGB: empowering women. If she feels comfortable, then so be it. Who are you to be the dress code police? Who says what is professional and what isn't? It varies from person to person, and you should accept the differences.

    It would be best if you (and "others") didn't focus your energy on what she was wearing, especially in a remote setting (you don't know her circumstances; it's probably too hot around her house). Also, if she's a top performer with excellent professional conduct, then what's the problem?

78. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 6:29PM UTC

    So, if I understand your post correctly, you are saying that her comfort matters, but none of the other participants in the room do. The dress code exists for the company to project an image appropriate to its business type. For example, you probably won't see jeans and T-shirts in a law office or car dealership, but you would in a construction zone. Being topless (or appearing to be topless) either in person or on a video call is not acceptable attire at any business I am aware of (except for male lifeguards, perhaps). If this person's apparent lack of clothing causes discomfort, it is an easy fix. How hard (or uncomfortable) is it to wear a T-shirt or a button-down for the length of the meeting? If the person in question is at a field office in a desert with no air conditioning, it is one thing, but I doubt that is the case here, or the people on the call, including the OP, would have considered that.

79. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:04AM UTC

    Our work is global with people from many cultures, some of which are more conservative than others. She's being newly introduced as a leader to people who don't know she's a top performer in my team. At least 5 people have expressed discomfort to me. I'm not going to "empower her" at the expense of others.

80. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:10PM UTC

    "Professionalism" and "leadership" by definition concern leading by example. This isn't a good example being modeled.

81. AnonymousAugust 27,2024 at 4:15PM UTC

    I once interviewed for a remote role via zoom with a woman who would be my manager. She wore a spaghetti strap tank top, nose ring with a long chain that connected to something within her cleavage. I couldn't be more appalled. Not my kind of place. I want to work where people are respectful of one another.

    Dressing like this is not respectful of others since it's others who have to look at us. That's who we dress for. We always did. When did people stop knowing this?
    Also, I am so surprised that modern women dress so provocatively. We are not just for sex appeal and a little business know-how on the side, but apparently, many don't know that.

82. Lisa Bracco SpinelliAugust 28,2024 at 1:41PM UTC

    I guess the concept of dressing for yourself isn't a thing?

    Fwiw I'm in my 50s and what she wore wouldn't bother me at all. I'd be more concerned about her treating me and the rest of the team fairly.

83. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:08PM UTC

    "Dressing for yourself" is for when you "work for yourself. Preferably by yourself as well."

84. Gee EmmAugust 29,2024 at 9:07PM UTC

    LOL! You've made my day! Love this comment!

85. LORI-ANN BURLINGAMEAugust 27,2024 at 10:05PM UTC

    Does your company have an Employee Handbook? If it does, check to see if there is a section on "Dress Code." When addressing these kinds of issues, it is much better to refer to a company policy.

86. Angeline JohnsonAugust 28,2024 at 10:01AM UTC

    I would suggest everybody has a virtual meeting etiquette.

    Having EVERYONE look at themselves BEFORE the meeting starts over their camera and adjust ANYTHING annoying, starting with looking at their hair and making sure their clothing is buttoned correctly, concerns as are being belabored here -- AND their background. Check your lighting. See if there's annoying things flicking past, including birds in windows or people moving around behind you.

    Just getting to see herself as others do, by intently looking at herself as her camera displays her on screen may, indeed, be quite enough, given such a prompting.

    I'm not of the mind, at all, that 'professional' garb is highly interpretive.

    If I lived somewhere that was having regular 100F days, I would likely find a bit more latitude in dress, but I can't say I've ever worked, including in the SE and in DC, in anything less than capped sleeves: decidedly not spaghetti straps.

    And I'm not very disposed to consider having a freer hand, unto throwing it up in the air, in dress to be a feminist issue.

    I don't see how feminism has anything to do with dressing respectfully/tactfully/appropriately for the situation one finds oneself in. I think we now have a need to disambiguate between libertine behavior and feminism.

87. Bridget HarringtonAugust 31,2024 at 4:05PM UTC

    I live in New Mexico and work remotely/from home for a company in the PNW. My workspace is in a room facing the hot morning sun and it HAS been 100°F in my world for the last month. I have worn sleeveless shells (not revealing at all) on calls, but never spaghetti strap anything. Or, if I happen to have spaghetti straps on, I'll put on a jacket for a call. I always have a duster nearby that is black, lightweight and drapes, and I always wear a statement necklace and earrings, so I can look professional in 2 seconds. My company has "team shirts" and I'm just waiting for my order on those to come in.

    It doesn't matter where you are working and this has nothing to do with "feminism" or "looks-ism" - a call is the same as an in-room meeting and it's etiquette to dress and look professional for what is seen on-camera. No one said that you can't be wearing shorts or PJ pants below. Heck, I usually am working in my ripped jeans and flip-flops...

88. Lisa Bracco SpinelliAugust 28,2024 at 1:38PM UTC

    Why is this even a concern in 2024? You said she's a top performer. You should focus on that and not what she's wearing. If it's comfortable and within the dress code, leave it alone.

89. Cindy GloverAugust 29,2024 at 1:38AM UTC

    What’s wrong with telling her kindly to go home and change

90. Allegre NeeAugust 29,2024 at 5:37AM UTC

    I'm in Las Vegas. It's hot. I get it. I don't wear spaghetti straps.

    She is NOT in Las Vegas. Her area is more temperate. A light sleeveless top with a slightly higher neckline would be equally comfortable and cool, with more coverage.

91. AnonymousAugust 29,2024 at 4:28PM UTC

    There are a lot of really toxic responses here. If it were me, if you just snagged me for a quick call or mentioned it casually at the end of a one on one meeting, I'd be a little embarrassed but adjust my wardrobe and move along. "Hey, this isn't a big deal, but I noticed the way your hair covers your straps on calls sometimes makes it look like you're not wearing a shirt. Obviously we all know you're wearing a shirt, but you might keep a cardigan or a button-up nearby so you can throw it on for calls so there's no distraction from your contributions."

    It doesn't sound to me like you're asking for a sanctimonious and misogynist editorial on professional attire or whether women "dress too provocatively these days", but rather literally just advice on how to bring it up, so that's the advice I'm giving. That's how I'd want it addressed if I were her. It's 2024 y'all, these comments are not it.

92. Regina BrownAugust 31,2024 at 8:52PM UTC

    It may be warm where she lives and the tank tops are comfortable for her. I wear tank tops for my Teams meeting because I live in Nevada and the summer was brutal this year with temps up to 120 degrees.

    You may just want to ask speak with her privately and let her know that because she looks topless on camera, she may wear a tank top that has wide sleeves

    But I guess my real question is: who are these other people so vested in her "on camera Team meeting" and why is it making them uncomfortable? She is a top performer and her professional conduct is excellent. Perhaps these other people should pay attention to their own performance and conduct...IJS?

93. AnonymousSeptember 17,2024 at 5:55AM UTC

    I'd suggest not bringing it up and instead suggesting to those "brining attention" that maybe they grow up. I'd also suggest that if you do bring it up, this woman sounds like she would be quite knowledgeable in her rights and duties as well as your own and I am guessing that she would bring HR in immediately and a lawsuit won't be far behind.