Starbucks rolls out strict new dress code for employees: Are the iconic green aprons at risk?

Starbucks has announced a significant update to its employee dress code, effective May 12. Under the new policy, baristas will be required to wear plain black t-shirts and jeans in khaki, black, or blue tones as part of their uniform. The change is intended to highlight the brand’s iconic green aprons and create a more familiar, welcoming atmosphere for customers, according to a report by The Associated Press (AP).

The global coffee chain stated that the dress code update aims to enhance the in-store experience and foster a warmer, more inviting environment. As part of the rollout, Starbucks will provide each employee with two complimentary t-shirts. The company emphasized that the new policy will simplify uniform guidelines, allowing employees to focus on delivering high-quality beverages and building stronger connections with customers.



However, the new policy has faced resistance from Starbucks Workers United, the union representing employees at more than 550 of the company’s 10,000 U.S. locations.

According to the union, a preliminary agreement on dress code policies had already been reached during recent negotiations with the company. The union argues that any changes should be postponed until the current bargaining process concludes and a new labor agreement is officially signed. Union members have also criticized the company for prioritizing dress code changes over more pressing operational issues, such as adequate staffing and guaranteed work hours for employees.

“Instead of addressing the urgent concerns baristas have raised for years, Starbucks is focusing on a restrictive dress code that won’t improve store operations,” said Jasmine Leli, a barista and union representative, in a statement cited by AP. Leli also accused the company of forcing baristas to cover the cost of new clothing at a time when many are already struggling with limited hours and stagnant wages. This is not the first time Starbucks has revised its dress code.

In 2016, the company introduced its first major reform, allowing employees greater flexibility by adding shirt color options such as gray, navy blue, dark denim, and brown, as well as patterned garments. Three years later, Starbucks expanded the policy to permit facial piercings, provided they were no larger than a dime. According to AP, the new guidelines continue to allow facial jewelry.

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