Tidy hair, make-up, nails and clothing are necessary in the modern workplace but this expectation has hidden costs, both financial and time-wise for women. Facial hair afficionados may need more grooming time and product if they sport a shorter more manicured style. Our carefully curated clothing and footwear needs to look good, fit well and send a message that we belong. Curly and thick-haired women need to plan well ahead and wash their hair the night before. People who look good get more positive evaluations, says Kirrane, so it’s always worth trying to look the best you can with the resources you have.

Source: The Irish Times March 26, 2026 12:01 UTC