Professional Wraps

Yaushin Yang,the owner of Yang’s Tattoos is,surprisingly enough,from the former category. He has eight tattoos on his body,four of which he has etched himself. Yang says,“Since I opened my tattoo parlour,I dress casually in shorts and a ganji as my profession is one that requires me to show off my talent. I’m more comfortable and relaxed in this kind of setting.” Earlier,when he was in the hospitality industry,he had to work in a uniform or suits as the interaction with clients at a restaurant is of a more formal nature. About his informal attitude and attire post his hospitality industry days,Yang says,“I believe that this is the best way to promote my work. I am a showcase of my work and I want people to see the possibilities that tattooing offers while being comfortable in my own skin.”

Another profession that makes it necessary for one to experiment with one’s looks in the beauty business. Shweta Kekal,owner of Meshail Unisex Salon,and a hairstylist and make-up expert as well,says,“It’s important that I remain updated about the products available in the market as well as about the latest trends in hair and make-up. And it’s not enough to just know,I have to look my part too. If I am not dressed properly it would adversely affect the opinion that my clients have about me. So I try to look my professional best at any given time.”

The world of software and Information Technology (IT) is yet another place that insists on sharp dressing,although they do tend to take it easy on weekends. The dress code is a blend of formal and casual. Jaywant Patil,an IT professional at KPIT Cummins has a different mindset about dress codes though. Patil says,“If my job demands that I dress a certain way,then where is the place for personal choice or comfort? If I am enjoying the benefits that the job offers,then I should take the dress code in my stride too.” Patil adds that especially in larger than life professions like that of an army officer or a politician,it is essential to be dedicated to the service and not bring personal clothing opinions into the picture.

Steffie Pillay,who works at the Babe Boutique in Camp,however,has had the exact opposite experience. Earlier,she used to be dressed casually in a pair of jeans and t-shirt but since her stint at her current job began she has become more fashion conscious and chic. Her wardrobe has voluntarily been revamped to skirts,dresses and other trendy attire. Pillay says,“I think my profession is one where you need to dress differently,which actually has now made me more stylish and confident,and that in turn makes me better at my job.”