Abstract
`Casual Fridays' are an increasingly popular phenomenon, which allows employees to lose the suit, ties and other corporate wear to don more relaxed attire. However it appears to have differing affects on individuals as well as the organisations involved. Research was conducted to investigate the notion of 'casual Fridays', more specifically how members of one local Dunedin organisation perceive it. Is it enjoyed and willingly practiced? What are the reasons for its enjoyment or objection? Have `casual Fridays' been beneficial for the organisation and the employees? And do these benefits outweigh the problems for all those involved? Each of these questions were addressed throughout this dissertation.
Through the use of qualitative analysis, four main themes were discovered which helped explain the 'casual Friday' concept. These broad themes were; Definition Discrepancies, Image, Social Issues and Practical Implications. Each of these themes helped illustrate the tension between agency and structure as well as gaining an understanding into the overall impression of the 'casual Friday' concept. On the whole members of this organisation appeared to enjoy the 'casual Friday' policy.