Large numbers of British workers dress smartly for fear of being judged negatively by colleagues, new research reveals.

A survey of workers by the Business is GREAT campaign shows that most people link the way they look with professional performance. Ripped jeans, branded t-shirts and short skirts were reportedly the worst garments to be seen in at work.

In a regional breakdown, people in Wales were most likely to judge fellow employees by the way they dress, with 50 per cent admitting to it. Least likely were people in the East Midlands, with just 38 per cent saying the same.

When asked about the best dressed business leaders, Amstrad’s Lord Sugar came out on top, with Richard Branson and Kelly Hoppen receiving honourable mentions. Three-fifths said a suit was the most appropriate work wear.

Geoff Quinn, managing director of shirtmaker TM Lewin, said: “The results of this research show we want our work clothes to demonstrate our work ethic. A third of those surveyed said they ‘dressed to impress’, choosing their business wardrobe to reflect their professional and hardworking nature.”