Starbucks is moving to update its employee dress code. Unsurprisingly, this decision has elicited a wide array of responses from staff and clients alike. The updated uniform will continue to feature the company’s signature green aprons, incorporating solid black shirts into the mix as well for employees. This amendment goes into effect on May 12. That’s all part of a larger, radical rebranding spearheaded by new-ish CEO Brian Niccol, who took over the company in September 2024.
The new dress code requires employees to wear black shirts. They have the option of short or long-sleeved crewneck, collared and/or button-up shirt styles, with khaki, black or blue denim bottom options. Under this COVID-related update, employees will receive two company-branded t-shirts at no charge. These shirts will easily fit any new dress code.
Starbucks has stated that the uniform update aims to create a “more consistent coffeehouse experience” for its customers across North America. The company believes that by standardizing employee attire, it can deliver a more cohesive brand image while allowing staff to focus on customer interactions.
“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.
The green aprons are one of the most recognized elements of the Starbucks brand, having adorned employee uniforms since 1987. We might add, they’ll remain an important part of the overall uniform. The move to black shirts is a deeper break from the way employees have traditionally been expected to carry themselves.
Community responses to the new policy have been decidedly mixed on social media. Some users reacted with sadness, mourning an anticipated loss of individuality in the new dress code. One TikTok user lamented, “love how what we wear seems to be more important than actually making Starbucks as a company better. damn cups have more individuality than us now.”
Some employees welcomed the change. Mini G., a Starbucks staffer, expressed gratitude for the clearer guidelines that would make their job easier, stating, “Thank you! More clarity and less ambiguity around dress code make our job easier.” Fionn M., another staff member, shared optimism about the new look: “I think our teams are going to look so much more professional… Look good feel good!”
Since Niccol’s arrival, Starbucks has been through one corporate shake-up after another, with failed restructuring attempts and cuts to baristas’ jobs. The corporation has eliminated a number of items from its menu. In an effort to stem declining sales, they’ve simultaneously introduced a limited spring menu.
As the implementation date approaches, employees and customers alike will be watching to see how these uniform changes impact the overall Starbucks experience.
