Skirting the issue at BNZ

The Gossip understands that there are “rules” in fashion – guides to being well dressed from the likes of Gok or Trinny and Susannah – but fashion rules from the BNZ? We’re not so sure!

Karen Lynch, a Finsec delegate from BNZ Feilding, was disappointed by the BNZ’s fashion rule – that the long skirt option in their uniform is only for size 18 and over, and that the shorter skirt option is only for size 16 and under. Karen is a smaller size and wants to wear the longer skirt, and when she put the issue up as one of BNZ’s “Thoughts into Action” she got a huge response from her colleagues – including from staff who are bigger sizes and want the shorter skirt option.

“It’s a no-win situation,” says Karen. “Not only do we all have less choices, but people in the longer skirts know that everyone will know what size they are.” There’s been little response from the bank so far – except to say that “there are trouser or long boots (with a $300 plus price tag) options”.

BNZ’s fashion police policy raises a lot of questions. Why shouldn’t all staff have choice about what style skirt they want? Why does the bank think that certain size staff should be limited to certain clothing styles?? Shouldn’t uniforms be about being smart and comfortable and finding what suits you, rather than fitting in with the BNZ’s size rules?

We’ll keep you posted on the state of hemlines at BNZ.