How to Write an Employee Dress Code Policy (with Big Brand Examples)

Writing an employee dress code or uniform policy isn’t easy. There are a lot of factors to consider outside of the normal polo and slacks. Will everyone be issued a polo? Do you expect business casual button downs? What sort of shoes are allowed?

You can create a uniform policy to give employees more creative space, or to keep your image consistent across the board, depending on your branding. Here are our tips on writing an employee dress code policy.

Who does this policy apply to?

If you don’t explicitly state who the policy does – and does not – apply to, you may find employees considering themselves the exception. A simple line stating that this is a company-wide policy will do. You can also create specifications for frontline employees, managers, warehouse crews, or any other niche group with different policies.

Pro tip: if your policies differ greatly from branches to corporate, or from frontline to management employees, consider writing separate policies

Hygiene, Hair, and Makeup

While it may seem like common sense, this portion of your policy may be useful. Request-ing employees maintain good hygiene is less pointed and more blanketed if it’s written in the policy everyone receives. If your approach is more relaxed, you can also specify what’s okay in this section.

Specific Uniform Pieces

If you require employees to wear specific uniforms or apparel items, such as those ordered through apparel fulfillment, specify those items in your policy. Include information on who is expected to pay for these items and when employees can expect new or replacement items.

This is also a good place to specify what items must be worn if no formal uniform is required. For example, you can let your employees know they need to wear button down shirts, slacks, polos, or whatever your brand image requires.

Items to Cover in Your Uniform Policy:

  • Shirts – t-shirts, button downs, polos, etc
  • Pants – jeans, shorts, skirts/dresses, khakis, slacks
  • Hats – logo visor or cap
  • Nametag – requirements, placement
  • Appearance – tucked in shirts, belts, collars, wrinkles Shoes Open-toed, sandals, sneakers and other athletic wear

What Not to Wear

The uniform policy is a great place to identify what apparel is not allowed. Giving employ-ees clear expectations from the beginning of their employment prevents problems further down the road.

Consider your dress code policy on....

  • Open-toed shoes
  • Jewelry
  • Tattoos – do they require covering Revealing clothing
  • Ripped items
  • Hats

Exceptions

If your policy has any exceptions to the rule, include them here. This can include days that the policy does not apply, such as casual Fridays. It can also include religious and other protected exemptions. This will formalize your policy and ensure continuity across the company.

Discipline

Finally, your uniform policy should address what will happen if an employee chooses not to adhere to your dress code. This is a decision upper management will need to make and writing it down will keep it consistent.

Apparel and uniforms represent your brand at all levels, from the frontline all the way up through the executive team. Ensure that you create an aesthetically appealing line of corporate apparel with an apparel fulfillment program and keep your expectations communicated with a clear employee uniform policy.

What Big Brand Corporate Uniform Policies Say

Starbucks

You are the face of our beloved brand, connecting with our customers every day. You’re expected to present a clean, neat and professional appearance when starting every shift. In keeping with this Dress Code, make sure your clothing is clean, hemmed, wrinkle-free and in good repair.

You are expected to follow these standards during the workday. If you come to work inappropriately dressed or with unacceptable appearance, you may not be permitted to start your shift. Failure to adhere to the Dress Code may result in corrective action, including separation from employment.

- Excerpts from the Starbucks employee dress code

Panera Locations

After 90 days when the uniform is supplied, the Baker must wear: Black Panera T-shirt, two (2) provided by company

White short sleeved Chef Coat, two (2) provided by company Choice of a Baker baseball hat or non-vented Beanie hat, one (1) provided by company

The employee is responsible for the purchase of all uniforms after the initial two (2) sets are provided.

- Hamra Franchised Panera Locations

Cracker Barrel

Polo shirts must not have colored corders or accents, must not have prints or marled/heathered fabric. Shoes must have slip resistant soles. No open toes, sides, or back. No high heels.

- Adapted from the Cracker Barrel Employee Dress Code

About Dot It

Dot It offers apparel fulfillment for all of you custom apparel needs, from branded t-shirts to jackets and other miscellaneous items. View our apparel catalog or contact us today at sales@dotit.com or 800.642.3687 to learn more about our apparel fulfillment program.

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