This smells more like an old managerial trick. Make the place uncomfortable enough that anybody who will leave, leaves on their own. If people take the bait it

This smells more like an old managerial trick. Make the place uncomfortable enough that anybody who will leave, leaves on their own. If people take the bait it makes the press release less sensational when the layoff numbers are announced. It also solves the issue with severance packages and unemployment benefits. Last but not least, there are less decisions that need to be made by management. All this suggests to me is that HP(s) will be announcing rounds of layoffs in the not too distant future. The "reason" for the dress code is for the media, investors, and employees to swallow. "No troubles here! Just some complaining customers visiting the office."