Starbucks employees in Illinois, Colorado, and California have filed lawsuits alleging the company’s May 2025 dress code changes violated state labor laws—specifically around reimbursement for work-required attire. Many workers say Starbucks didn’t cover the full cost of compliance, which includes shoes, pants, and even removal of facial piercings. AP News+1 (Starbucks Dress Code Lawsuits)
What the New Dress Code Requires & What Employees Are Saying
- The new policy, effective May 12, mandates solid black shirts (crewneck, collared, or button-up) under the green apron. Nation’s Restaurant News+1
- Acceptable bottoms include khaki, black, or blue denim; or solid black dresses no more than 4 inches above the knee. Nation’s Restaurant News+1
- Footwear must be neutral‑toned (black, gray, dark blue, brown, tan, or white) and waterproof. Socks/hosiery must be subdued. AP News+1
- The new code limits facial piercings (only one) and restricts “theatrical makeup” or visible tattoos/facial piercings beyond a certain point. Nation’s Restaurant News+1
- Starbucks provided two branded shirts for free to employees, but workers say that’s insufficient, especially for those who work several shifts/week or need additional pieces to meet the policy. AP News+1
Why the Lawsuits Claim the Dress Code Is Unlawful
- State laws in Illinois, Colorado, and California require employers to reimburse workers when they must buy clothing or items that primarily benefit the employer. Plaintiffs argue Starbucks didn’t comply. Nation’s Restaurant News+1
- Workers say they requested reimbursements, especially for shoes and other requirements, but were denied. AP News
- The enforcement has consequences: non‑compliance can prevent an employee from starting their shift. Nation’s Restaurant News
Broader Context: Why This Matters for the Restaurant & Service Industry
- Dress codes are more than just uniforms; they impact employee expenses, morale, identity, and legal compliance.
- Businesses are under increasing scrutiny for policies that impose costs on employees without compensation—especially when employees are already facing wage stagnation, inflation, or rising cost of living.
- With union activity increasing at Starbucks under Starbucks Workers United, this case reflects broader tensions between brand image initiatives and worker rights. Quartz+1
What Other Restaurants Should Consider: Avoiding the Missteps
- Review Legal Requirements First
Ensure that any policy that requires employees to purchase or wear specific clothing complies with state or local law, including reimbursement rules. - Clarify What Is Company‑Provided vs. Employee Expense
If you require “uniform” items, decide which are free and which are to be purchased by employees—and make the distinctions clear. - Consider the Financial Burden on Employees
For many workers, even an extra pair of pants or new shoes is a nontrivial cost. Discounts, stipends, or reimbursement help. - Provide Enough Supply
If giving free items (like shirts), ensure availability matches demand (for those with multiple shifts, damage, or wear). - Maintain Clear Communication & Grace Periods
Changes should be communicated with sufficient lead time. Giving grace periods, allowance windows, or transition support can ease burden. - Weigh Branding vs. Employee Sentiment
Brand consistency is important, but forcing too strict a visual uniform can damage morale or be perceived as overemphasis on appearance rather than performance.
Final Thoughts on the Starbucks Dress Code Lawsuit
This lawsuit is a warning sign: requiring employees to spend for policies that benefit the company can expose you to legal risk—and harm employee trust. If your restaurant is considering dress code updates, do it with empathy, fairness, compliance, and communication.
📩 Contact Us
Need support refining dress code policies, ensuring compliance, or creating fair employee guidelines?
Contact DeVita & Hancock Hospitality at www.dhhospitalitygroup.com for your consulting or recruitment needs, or email us at connect@dhhospitalitygroup.com.
For Clover and CardConnect payment solutions, visit: dhhospitalitygroup.com/clover/