Halloween is upon us, and that means it’s time to find the perfect costume to wear to your company’s annual Halloween celebration. Most of us stick to the typical alter egos like witches, vampires, ghosts, pirates, and pop culture icons, but there’s always that one employee who goes a little too far to showcase their creativity.
Yes, costumes are a fun way to let loose and flaunt your quirky side, but they can also be a recipe for disaster when worn in the workplace. It’s important to be aware that your inappropriate sense of humor could backfire and indeliberately create sadness or anger that could haunt you for weeks or even cost you your job.
Below are 6 costumes you should always avoid wearing in the office (or anywhere, for that matter). We encourage you to pass the list along to those friends and coworkers who tend to go overboard this time of year!
1. Sexy Anything
It’s common sense that sexy nurse and cop costumes should be reserved for college parties and the streets of New Orleans, but just in case you need reminding, sexy costumes in the workplace are an absolute don’t!
2. Politicians
Don’t dress up as a politician or hot-button political issue unless you want to waste half your time stuck in political debates. These costume are an opening for discussion, and it could get ugly.
3. Your Boss
If you care about your job, don’t go there.
4. Stereotypes
Don’t wear a costume that is trying to depict an ethnic group. Cultural appropriation is a large enough issue today, and it shouldn’t be brought into the workplace.
5. Religious Figures
Avoid wearing religious getups, especially ones that poke fun at a particular religion or religious figure. It will likely hurt feelings, and leave you looking like an insensitive jerk.
6. Fat Suits
This is another costume that will leave you looking insensitive. A fat suit says you find plus-size people humorous.
