Some Striking Starbucks Employees Oppose Black-Shirt Dress Code

Starbucks’ updated dress code got some pushback from employees who walked off the job on May 14 in protest, following an April 24 allegation that the change was an unfair labor practice in violation of the National Labor Relations Act. Starbucks denied any violation, saying only a few employees participated in the protest while others welcomed the new dress code.

‘Simpler and Clearer Guidance’

The new dress code, effective May 12, called for a more defined color palette for workers, including any solid black short- or long-sleeved crew neck, collared, or button-up shirt, and any shade of khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms. The company also made a new line of company- branded T-shirts available to workers, who received two at no cost.  

It’s a dress code, not a uniform, and employees can wear their own clothes so long as they meet the company’s guidelines, a Starbucks spokesman said. 

“By updating our dress code, we can deliver a more consistent coffeehouse experience that will also bring simpler and clearer guidance to our partners, which means they can focus on what matters most, crafting great beverages and fostering connections with customers,” Starbucks said in an April 14 statement about its new policy.

 Policy: Attire and Grooming Policy

Union’s Allegations 

The employees’ union, Workers United, said the company unilaterally implemented a new dress code policy at all stores nationwide that materially differed from the status quo and what the parties had tentatively agreed to at the bargaining table.  

This undermined the union’s representational status, unilaterally changed terms and conditions of employment, and improperly moved the goalposts for collective bargaining, the union alleged in its charge filed with the National Labor Relations Board.

Starbucks’ Position

However, a Starbucks spokesman said the company has bargained in good faith and will continue to do so. Workers United, the union for some Starbucks workers, represents only 570 of Starbucks’ more than 10,000 coffeehouses, according to the company.  

“Thousands of Starbucks partners — employees — came to work today ready to serve their customers and communities,” the company said in a May 14 statement. “The biggest update to our dress code is simple: Wear a black shirt — either your own or one we provide. Workers United represents less than 5% of our workforce, and by their own measure, less than 1% of stores have participated in their attempts to cause disruption. While the union is focused on a simplified dress code, we’re focused on providing the best job in retail with a wage and benefits package that averages more than $30 per hour for hourly partners. It would be more productive if the union would put the same effort into coming back to the table to finalize a reasonable contract.”

 Toolkit: Managing Employee Dress and Appearance

Some Positive Worker Response

Although some workers opposed the dress code changes, others supported them, Starbucks said. 

“I am excited to look snazzy and match,” said Camellia, a Starbucks barista (whose full name wasn’t disclosed) in Traverse City, Mich. “The new dress code allows us all to look like a united team.” 

“I think our teams are going to look so much more professional,” added Fionn, a worker (whose full name also wasn’t disclosed) in Oregon City, Ore. “The dress code has gotten very relaxed over the years, and while there will be a transition period with the team that may require some work, I look forward to how sleek our teams will look. Look good, feel good!”