To think this manager is being unfair?

[quiettimes]

I got pulled into an “informal meeting” today with a male manager because apparently my dress is too short and he will be monitoring my attire going forward. What I’m wearing isn’t against the dress code guidance (which is just “smart casual”. This dress covers my knees and is not a fitted style so it isn’t riding up. I have worn it to work many times before and no issues were raised previously.

aibu to be annoyed about being spoken to about this? Other people not only wear dresses the same length as me, but shorter things. Some are literally wearing things directly against the dress standards such as jeans, trainers, t shirts and hoodies today. They aren’t being spoken to. I feel like it’s personal and nitpicking to raise this. Particularly as it’s also 20 degrees outside and the heating is ON inside, so everyone at work is profusely sweating working through headache inducing heat.

Ick what a creep. Say you’ll monitor him back

This is what you need to do… l wouldn’t bring anyone else’s attire into the conversation but I’d make notes of others who fall outside of the dress code for future reference.

You know it's not really about what anyone's wearing, don't you? It's about finding the weak spot of each staff member, to knock their confidence and keep them in a constant state of worry. With the gf, he doesn't need to criticise her clothing as he has her where he wants her already (and it's quite likely she will be on the receiving end some day, but that's not your problem). With another colleague it's their work quality. It's just a power thing. If the clothing angle doesn't work he'll be looking for another stick to beat you with.

I hope your promotion has taken you further out of his sphere of influence. He is an insignificant person trying to make himself feel significant at your expense. You are a competent employee who is going places, but not necessarily in that organisation.

I agree with some of the others you want to document everything regarding this so you have evidence going forward incase it gets out of hand. I would also photograph what you were wearing. This way you can address it hire if need be.

Against the law to have workplace too hot. Address it with him if he feels the need to address your attire

No, I think the OP should make it very clear in an email to him how inappropriate his behaviour is. She can copy in HR and her own (current) line manager. Then it can't be swept under the carpet.

I have never worked with anyone like this, it just seems so 20th century!

This isn't true, as far as I know.

There is no legal upper limit.

Im sure there's temperature laws

Only laws for lower limits 15 degrees, no upper limits