Respect, decorum and travel attire

The Christmas party invite says smart casual.

But what does that mean when it's 35 degrees and storms are on the way?

And why are double pluggers acceptable in a Queensland office setting, but you'd never catch anyone in Sydney with their toes out at work?

There's no doubt our weather and cultural trends influence what we wear.

But how much personal freedom do we really have when we're getting dressed?