The U.S. Department of State has officially added a business formal dress code to its internal policy manual, marking the first time clear, department-wide standards for employee attire have been written into rules.
The update was made in the Foreign Affairs Manual, which guides how diplomats and staff operate. It applies to both civil service employees and members of the Foreign Service.
What the New Policy Says
Under the new guidance, employees attending meetings or official engagements, especially with foreign counterparts, are expected to wear business formal clothing and maintain a polished, professional appearance.
Officials say the goal is to ensure that those representing the United States present themselves with credibility and respect. Assistant Secretary Dylan Johnson described the move as a way to reflect the dignity of the country in official settings.
Why the Change Was Made
According to department officials, the policy was partly driven by concerns that workplace attire had become too informal in recent years. The new rule aims to create more consistent standards across the agency.
This shift reflects broader efforts under U.S. President Donald Trump to emphasize structure, discipline, and uniform expectations within government institutions.
Part of Larger Policy Changes
The dress code update is one of several recent changes at the State Department. Earlier adjustments included revisions to hiring and promotion criteria, with a stronger focus on adherence to government policy and chain of command.
These updates replaced some previous benchmarks tied to diversity and inclusion with a new emphasis on “fidelity,” meaning loyalty to official policies and leadership direction.
A Shift in Workplace Culture
Compared to earlier policies that allowed more flexibility in dress and workplace norms, the new rules signal a move toward a more standardized and traditional approach.
Officials say attire may still vary depending on job duties and work environment, but formal dress is now the default expectation for official interactions.
