Starbucks is going to implement a new dress code in all its cafes across the country. The new rule, which will take effect on May 12th in all cafes, aims to make the famous green apron stand out above the printed t-shirts and fun shirts that are often seen on the workers of these cafes. And of course, while the brand sees it as a way to create visual consistency across locations, for the workers, this has been a statement that erases their identity and silences their personality.
Many of them have expressed their dissatisfaction because they believe Starbucks is more than just buying a coffee and drinking it in a chill-out café; they are part of the experience, and limiting their clothing turns them into mere mannequins.
While the company talks about improving the customer experience, on social media and in union halls, the feeling is growing that the company has forgotten what truly matters: the people who bring their stores to life.
A change that seeks uniformity… at any cost
The new rule is clear: no more shirts with drawings, bright colours, or anything that falls outside the set line. Workers will only be allowed to wear plain black t-shirts with a round neck, polo shirts, or buttoned-up shirts, and khaki, black, or dark blue jeans. Nothing else.
Starbucks will provide two shirts per person for free, but this has not calmed the mood. Many employees consider it not a gift, but an unjustified imposition that erases something that made them unique.
“It’s not the uniform, we’re the ones who give soul to this”
On forums like Reddit, the discontent is clear. Dozens of workers have shared messages criticizing the measure. One summarized it like this: “Starbucks is not the logo, nor the cup. It’s us. We provide the experience. And now they want us all to be the same.”
The union also responds: “This is not the urgent matter”
Starbucks Workers United, the union representing thousands of workers, has not delayed in reacting, as is logical given the workers’ discontent. For them, the new dress code is a distraction maneuver. “Instead of solving the real problems, like the lack of staff or fair contracts, the company prefers to talk about the color of the pants,” they posted on social media.
And this is not an isolated complaint. The union reports that the management is more focused on the external image than on the working conditions of its employees.
In addition to considering this dress code much more conservative, they believe that this change is a “smoke screen” that only worsens the disconnect between the staff and the company…
Why has it upset so much?
Because it’s not just about clothing. What’s at stake here is each worker’s freedom to show who they are. Before, a waiter or barista could reflect part of their personality in their clothing while working, but now everyone must look like they came out of the same mold. And that, in an environment where human interaction is essential, can be a huge step backward.
The customer who returns to a Starbucks café doesn’t do so just for the coffee. They do so because they like how their regular barista greets them, because they remember their name, their order, and because they make them feel comfortable. If that connection disappears, part of what made Starbucks special is lost.
Will the rule change?
For now, Starbucks has not shown any signs of wanting to reverse the decision. The rule stands and will come into effect in a few weeks. But with the union’s pressure and the noise being generated on social media, refusing to accept this dress code, it can’t be ruled out that there may be some adjustment later.
What seemed like a simple change in attire has uncovered something much deeper. Starbucks wants to standardize its image, but in the process, it risks destroying what made it great. What do you think about it? Let us know!
