Week 4: Uniforms and Cultural Identity (Embracing Diversity in the Workplace)

Uniforms are far more than just functional workwear. They are powerful symbols of brand identity, team unity, and, increasingly, corporate values such as sustainability and inclusion. As businesses become more multicultural and multi-faith workplaces, uniforms must do more than look professional. They must also honour the identities of the people who wear them.

At Jermyn Street Design (JSD), we believe that a modern uniform should reflect the diversity of the workforce and accommodate the cultural and religious practices of employees. As a long-established ethical uniform supplier, we are proud to lead the way in designing sustainable uniforms that promote dignity, respect, and a strong sense of belonging. We understand that when employees feel seen and valued, they perform better, stay longer, and connect more deeply with your brand.

Recognising Cultural Identity Through Uniform Design

Cultural identity encompasses many aspects of an individual’s background, from heritage and language to religion and personal expression. In the workplace, uniforms that ignore these dimensions can inadvertently alienate staff or create a sense of discomfort. For organisations committed to equality and diversity, that is a missed opportunity.

When uniforms are designed to accommodate items such as hijabs, turbans, or modest cuts, it sends a clear message: your organisation respects difference. This contributes to employee satisfaction and ensures compliance with the Equality Act 2010, which protects individuals from discrimination based on religion, belief, and gender identity.

Inclusive design is more than a fashion choice. It is a strategic business decision. Companies that embrace cultural representation in uniform design benefit from higher engagement and loyalty, both internally and externally. As an ethical uniform supplier, JSD partners with clients to integrate these principles into every collection.

Designing Sustainable Uniforms with Diversity in Mind

Sustainability and inclusion are deeply interconnected. Just as we must care for the environment, we must also care for the communities and people that keep our businesses thriving. Designing sustainable uniforms means choosing materials that are environmentally responsible and processes that are socially conscious.

At JSD, we use fabrics with recycled content, work with suppliers who meet ethical certifications, and design garments with end-of-life recycling in mind. Our eco-friendly uniforms are made to last and built to adapt, supporting both environmental goals and the diverse needs of employees.

One of the strengths of sustainable uniforms is their flexibility. Modular uniform designs, for example, allow employees to personalise elements of their outfit while maintaining a consistent brand appearance. This might mean offering trousers, skirts, dresses, and outerwear in varying fits and lengths, or creating accessories that reflect cultural or religious practices.

Our role as an ethical uniform supplier is to bring these design options to life in a way that looks sharp, feels comfortable, and meets the practical needs of each job role.

Building Inclusivity Through Uniform Language

Language plays a crucial role in how inclusive your uniforms truly are. Traditional approaches to workwear often categorise garments as “men’s” or “women’s”, leaving little space for those who identify outside the gender binary. At JSD, we encourage clients to adopt inclusive terminology such as “masculine fit” or “feminine fit”, allowing employees to choose styles that align with their gender identity without compromising their expression or comfort.

This thoughtful approach helps to create an open culture where employees feel empowered to be themselves. More than a branding decision, it is a statement of values. It demonstrates that your business takes diversity seriously and is willing to evolve its policies and practices to be more inclusive.

We have seen the positive impact of this shift in numerous uniform projects. It’s a small change in language that makes a significant difference in how people experience their work attire.

Case Study: Coventry Building Society

Our collaboration with Coventry Building Society is a strong example of how inclusive design can be embedded into a uniform programme. When the Society decided to refresh its staff uniforms, they wanted a solution that celebrated individuality and aligned with their sustainability goals.

JSD developed a range of sustainable uniforms that were inclusive by design. Rather than assigning clothing by gender, the collection was organised by fit, giving team members the freedom to choose what worked best for them. This inclusive structure empowered staff to select garments that made them feel confident and comfortable in their roles.

In line with Coventry Building Society’s environmental commitments, all garments were made using recycled materials and designed for end-of-life recyclability. This meant that when the uniforms eventually reached the end of their useful life, they could be responsibly deconstructed and reprocessed, reducing landfill waste and supporting a circular economy.

By working with JSD as their ethical uniform supplier, Coventry Building Society proved that uniforms can be both inclusive and sustainable without compromise. The result was a successful launch that was embraced by employees and celebrated as a positive reflection of the company’s values.

Steps to Implement Inclusive and Sustainable Uniform Policies

Creating an inclusive and sustainable uniform policy does not happen overnight. It requires careful planning, consultation, and a willingness to challenge outdated norms. But with the right approach and the right ethical uniform supplier, it’s more than achievable.

Here are some key steps for businesses looking to evolve their uniform strategy:

1. Engage with Employees: Involve your staff from the outset. Their insights will guide you in understanding the cultural, religious, and personal considerations that need to be factored into the design.
2. Introduce Flexible Design Options: Provide a variety of styles and fits that accommodate different preferences, body types, and cultural needs. Include optional accessories that allow for self-expression within the brand framework.
3. Prioritise Ethical and Sustainable Materials: Work with suppliers who can provide certified eco-conscious fabrics and who demonstrate transparent, ethical production practices. This is crucial in the shift towards truly sustainable uniforms.
4. Review and Evolve Regularly: Uniform needs to change with the times. Stay in touch with staff and review your policy annually to ensure it continues to meet evolving expectations and remains aligned with best practices.

By following these steps, companies can enhance their brand image and create a working culture rooted in fairness, dignity, and environmental awareness.

The Bigger Picture

At JSD, we don’t just supply clothing. We help companies create uniform strategies that support long-term cultural and environmental goals. From airlines to banks, we’ve seen that when a company takes inclusion seriously, the benefits ripple far beyond the office or shop floor.

Choosing sustainable uniforms over fast fashion alternatives helps reduce environmental degradation. Choosing a trusted ethical uniform supplier ensures your investment uplifts communities and respects people across the supply chain. And choosing eco-friendly uniforms sends a powerful message to both employees and customers that your organisation values integrity, inclusivity, and a greener future.

Invest in Uniforms That Respect Every Identity

Uniforms are more than a corporate necessity. They are a daily statement about who you are as a company and what you stand for. In a world that is increasingly diverse, your uniforms must do more than fit, they must include respect, and inspire.

At Jermyn Street Design, we are proud to be an ethical uniform supplier trusted by UK and global brands to deliver collections that are as thoughtful as they are functional. We design sustainable uniforms that support environmental goals, honour personal and cultural identity, and set new standards for what workplace attire can achieve.

If your business is ready to lead by example, we are here to help. Let’s design eco-friendly uniforms that bring your values to life and celebrate the people who represent your brand every day.