Louise's Dress Code

First Interview, with Anthony (Server Manager, 1)—

What I wear: white tank top, nice light blue top, black slacks, boots.

Anthony: “The hostess can wear whatever they like, you know, professional but also casual.”

My take: Like what I’m wearing, but maybe a dressier top.

Second Interview, with Rodney (General Manager)—

What I wear: white tank top, light yellow long sleeve button-up, nice light brown slacks, boots

Rodney: “The hostess doesn’t have to wear a uniform so you can wear whatever you like. Just, you know, professional and casual at the same time.”

Me, puzzled: “Well this (gesturing to my outfit) is what I consider professional casual.”

Rodney, reluctantly: “Yeah.”

First day on the job, Heather (Server Manager, 2)—

What I wear: orange tank top, beige sweater, brown slacks, boots

Heather: “Look, girlie here thought it was gonna be cold so she wore a sweater.”

Me, trying not to make a screwed up face at her: “Ha, yeah.”

First week on the job—

What I wear: button-ups and sweaters, slacks, boots.

Most complimented outfit: Red sweater with slacks (Note: it’s a low-cut sweater)

Saturday before Easter Sunday, Second week on the job—

What I wear: Teal dress with thick black straps, and white and black flowers with new black flats; I wore this dress to Katie Ford’s grad and my cousin Michele’s wedding (Note: cleavage)

Weather: warm and springy

Servers, who are sweethearts I love: “I love your dress! You look fabulous!”

Later, Anthony: “Erica! I like the change of dress!!”

Me, from the hostess’ stand: “Well, you never know what you’re gonna get from me!”

I smiled like a hostess does and turned around.