Even When Tasteful, Men Can’t Wear Skirts

Men don’t have the right to wear a skirt to work, even though women can wear traditionally male trousers and ties, a British industrial tribunal ruled Friday.

For eight years, Paul Kara’s bosses at London’s Hackney Council didn’t complain when he wore women’s leggings and blouses to work. But when he appeared in skirts twice last April, the council drew the line.

Kara sued the council after being told not to wear skirts.

Kara argued that his female colleagues wore pants, suits and ties to work. But the industrial tribunal ruled that there was no discrimination, because the women were wearing clothes designed for women based on men’s clothing, whereas Kara was wearing clothing not intended for men.

Kara’s wife, Helen, said her husband’s choice was always tasteful.