Workwear for Every Body: A Guide to Inclusivity

You want your teams to feel comfortable and confident on the job. But when your gear doesn’t fit everyone, some team members get left out.

So, how do you find inclusive workwear and PPE that isn’t poor quality?

It’s often easier said than done. 

When inclusive workwear isn’t up to standard, you end up with:

• Limited options 
• Uncomfortable kit
• Gear that doesn’t last
• Badly fitting workwear

This can lead to: 

• Safety risks
• Rising costs 
• Frustrated teams
• Lower productivity 

Well-fitting PPE or safety clothing is essential for confident, comfortable, and safe teams.

This guide keeps it simple. We’ll explain why inclusive workwear matters, where it falls short, and how to build a program that fits everyone.

WHY WORKWEAR INCLUSIVITY MATTERS

Getting inclusive workwear right makes sense for your people and your business.

The right kit protects your people, improves performance, and shows your teams they matter. It also boosts morale, reduces staff turnover, and helps you stay compliant.

But it’s not just about happier, more comfortable teams.

It can also mean: 

• Less unnecessary waste
• Fewer complaints and returns
• Less risk of legal issues or fines
• Better quality, long-lasting gear
• Reduced turnover and recruitment costs 
• More comfort, more focus, and fewer risks

WHY SOME INCLUSIVE WORKWEAR FALLS SHORT

Many ‘inclusive’ ranges are not inclusive enough.

Some suppliers offer more sizes, but don’t change the fit. Others skip women’s or cultural designs altogether. 

Even worse, quality often gets left behind.

Poor quality leads to:

• Uncomfortable, impractical designs that lower morale.
• Teams wasting time and money fixing avoidable issues.
• Frequent reorders and rising costs from gear that doesn’t last.
• Poor-fitting workwear that restricts movement and slows teams down.

WHAT A GREAT INCLUSIVE WORKWEAR PROGRAM LOOKS LIKE

Does your uniform work for everyone? If not, then it’s not doing its job.

For the best inclusive gear, think more than just size.

To ensure your teams can focus without distraction, look for inclusive uniforms that combine quality, comfort, and style.

Your team's workwear shouldn’t:

• Bunch
• Ride up
• Slip down
• Restrict range of motion

Here’s what to look for:

• Tough fabrics built to last
• Full-size ranges for all body types
• Layering options that don’t add bulk
• Smart designs that feel good to wear
• Optional cultural or religious features built in
• Sizes and styles for every gender, build, and height 
• Adjustable waistbands, stretch panels, and ergonomic seams

TOP TIP: Don’t overthink it. For more all-inclusive apparel, focus on offering comfortable and safe workwear for everyone. 

WORKWEAR DESIGNED FOR WOMEN

You can’t build an inclusive workwear programme without supporting your female staff.

Too often, women’s workwear options are smaller versions of men’s uniforms. These are, at best, uncomfortable, and at worst, unsafe.  

At SMI, we know this isn’t good enough.

Look for a supplier that offers women’s workwear without giving up protection or performance. 

Key features should include:

• Shaped waistlines and bust darts
  
• Narrower shoulders and wider hips
  
• Slim and relaxed styles to suit every job

Want to expand your range?
Explore ladies’ workwear!

HOW TO BUILD YOUR INCLUSIVE WORKWEAR PROGRAM

 

START WITH YOUR TEAM

Want to know what’s working and what’s not?

Get feedback from your team before bulk ordering, or start by arranging free trials.

Ask questions like:

• What doesn’t fit or feel right?
  
• What helps you do your job better and safer?
  
• Are we missing any cultural or religious options?

CHOOSE A SUPPLIER WHO TAKES INCLUSIVITY SERIOUSLY

Not every supplier is made equal. Choose one that understands your sector and can supply what your teams need.

Look for a partner who offers:

• Fit testing
• Good value at each price point
• Feedback loops to improve service  
• Compliant, EN-rated high-quality kit
• Gear for everybody and every budget
• High stock availability and consistent service
• Inclusive options across all PPE and workwear

Learn more in our guide: ‘What to look for in a single source supplier.’

OPT FOR A SINGLE SOURCE SUPPLIER

Struggling to manage several suppliers for your PPE and workwear basics? That makes it nearly impossible to stay inclusive and consistent.

Switch to a single source supplier for:

• Full-size ranges
• Consistent sizing, fit, and quality
• Faster dispatch for fewer delays
• Simpler invoicing and cost tracking
• Easier reordering and stock control
• Better visibility over ESG and DEI goals

The list of reasons to switch to a single source supplier goes on.

PARTNER WITH SMI FOR ALL-INCLUSIVE APPAREL 

With over 40 years of experience, we know what good inclusive workwear is and how to make it happen.

With broad workwear options and expert teams, we help businesses build workwear programs that fit their people, their goals, and their budget. 

Here’s how:

• 25,000+ products all in one place
• Custom catalogues built around your team
• ROKWEAR® quality that’s tough, trusted, and made to last
• Product trials & expertise so you can test before you commit 

Need help or advice?

Chat to our friendly team today, we’re happy to help!

FAQs

How to create a more inclusive workplace?

Start with what your team wears. 

Go for inclusive workwear that fits, protects, and supports in every role and on every body.

 

Do employers have to provide workwear?

Yes! If there are health and safety risks on site, workwear and PPE are legally required.

Even when uniforms are optional, many businesses provide them for better support, comfort, and consistency.

Here’s some of the best PPE to prevent workplace injuries.

 

Should my employer pay for my work clothes?

Yes! Employers must supply PPE or workwear free of charge if it’s needed to combat health and safety risks.

 

Why is workwear important?

Workwear matters because it:

• Boosts morale
• Protects your team
• Builds team identity
• Supports compliance
• Reflects company values

 

Ready to build your inclusive program?

Find a supplier that helps you find the right inclusive workwear while cutting time and costs. 

Get in touch today to switch to a seamless supply process.