Starbucks will implement a more restrictive dress code next month that aims to create visual consistency across its North American locations while emphasizing the company’s signature green apron.
The coffee giant announced Monday that starting May 12, baristas will be limited to solid black tops and a narrowed range of bottoms in khaki, black or blue denim.
“By updating our dress code, we can deliver a more consistent coffeehouse experience that will also bring simpler and clearer guidance to our partners,” Starbucks said in a statement.
The company will provide employees with two free branded t-shirts, including options featuring partner networks, as part of the rollout.
The policy change marks a shift toward greater uniformity across Starbucks’ thousands of North American locations, with the company explicitly stating the move is designed to “allow our iconic green apron to shine.”
The green apron has been a symbol of Starbucks since 1987, the company noted.
Starbucks framed the dress code update as supporting its broader strategy to create “a warm, welcoming environment” in its stores while also simplifying guidelines for staff.
The company said employees can focus more on “crafting great beverages and fostering connections with customers” with clearer dress requirements in place.
