Last weekend my husband and I decided to take a break from unpacking boxes and a score of other chores related to moving in to our new home. As we drove to a nearby movie theater to take in a screening of Public Enemies, Harry rubbed his jaw ruefully and remarked that he hoped he wouldn’t meet anyone he knew while we were out. He had foregone shaving that morning, something he likes to do on Saturdays (especially in the summer) when he doesn’t plan on going anywhere in particular that day. I think it allows him a nice break from the workday routine and emphasizes the relaxed and unfocused nature of a day away from the office. Nevertheless, the rather public nature of his job (superintendent of a local school district) makes him want to present a neat appearance when he’s out and about, even on his days off. Thus his brief fretting over his slightly scruffy cheeks.

I assured him he didn’t look too disreputable and then jokingly reminded him that he was merely sporting what has become the de rigueur look for all today’s handsome young Hollywood studs; in fact, he actually needed another day or two’s growth to really have the look down pat. His response — a derisive snort and a roll of the eyes — said clearly that he didn’t believe he was of the right age or physique to pull off that fad. To be honest, it is true that what I guess may look rakish and virile on a face with a square jawline, well-defined cheekbones and a dare-devil gleam in the eyes can appear on a gentleman of a certain age as tired and frumpy. (Personally, I’m not that enamored of that whiskery fashion even on the young and stunningly handsome; I can’t help but think how scratchy that would feel!)

It got me wondering whether that somewhat disheveled look would really be acceptable anywhere in the business world except in the fashion and entertainment industries. No matter how fit, handsome or well-dressed a man might be, could he walk into a board room or important business meeting sporting a two-days’ growth on his face and expect to be greeted as a serious individual? As he presented his business plan or merger proposal, wouldn’t his audience be wondering what was the reason behind such an obvious slip in personal hygiene? I really wouldn’t know, as my work doesn’t normally take me into such situations, but I’m sure our GT readers can testify to what is considered acceptable business dress and grooming these days.

How about it? Are any of you seeing the stubbled look cropping up anywhere in the world in typical business settings? What are your thoughts on this trend? I’d be curious what both the gentlemen and the ladies have to say!

–Patty Vanikiotis, proofreader