Starbucks Dress Code Policy 2025, Baristas and Partners
In 2025, Starbucks updated its employee dress code to create a more consistent and professional coffeehouse experience. The new policy focuses on simplicity, safety, and brand identity. Most importantly, it highlights the iconic green apron that has represented Starbucks partners since 1987.
As a result, partners across North America now follow clearer and more defined clothing guidelines. These rules help reduce confusion, improve safety, and ensure that every Starbucks store feels familiar to customers. Whether you are a new hire or a long-time barista, understanding the Starbucks dress code 2025 makes daily work smoother and stress-free.
This guide explains everything, including clothing rules, shoes, grooming, tattoos, and accommodations.
Why Starbucks Updated Its Dress Code in 2025
Starbucks introduced the updated dress code in April 2025, and it officially became effective on May 12, 2025. The goal was to create a unified look across all stores while keeping partners comfortable and confident.
Over time, relaxed dress rules led to confusion and inconsistency. Therefore, Starbucks decided to simplify color options and clearly define acceptable attire. This change allows partners to focus on customer service, beverage quality, and building connections.
At the same time, Starbucks continues to respect individuality by allowing diverse hairstyles, tattoos, and religious accommodations.
Overview of Starbucks Dress Code 2025
The Starbucks dress code 2025 is built around a clean and professional appearance. It ensures safety while letting the green apron stand out.
Key Highlights
- Solid black tops only
- Bottoms in black, khaki, or blue denim
- Closed-toe, closed-heel shoes
- Minimal jewelry and safe accessories
- Hair must be restrained
- Inclusive accommodations for religion and disability
Approved Tops and Outerwear
Acceptable Tops
All partners must wear solid black shirts while on shift. These tops help maintain uniformity and keep attention on the green apron.
Allowed styles include:
- Short-sleeve or long-sleeve shirts
- Crewneck shirts
- Collared shirts
- Button-up shirts
Small manufacturer logos are allowed if they are no larger than two inches.
Prohibited Tops
- Printed or graphic shirts
- Patterns or bright colors
- Hooded sweatshirts
- See-through or ripped fabric
Outerwear Rules
Lightweight black outerwear is allowed when needed.
Approved outerwear includes:
- Black lightweight jackets
- Black crew-neck sweatshirts
Hoods, patterns, and oversized logos are not allowed. All visible layers must remain solid black.
Acceptable Bottoms Under Starbucks Dress Code 2025
Starbucks allows more flexibility with bottoms to support comfort during long shifts.
Approved Bottom Colors
- Black
- Khaki (tan)
- Any shade of blue denim
Allowed Styles
- Pants
- Skirts
- Shorts
- Skorts
- Dresses
- Overalls
Skirts, shorts, and dresses must not be more than four inches above the knee.
Prohibited Bottoms
- Sweatpants or joggers
- Distressed or ripped jeans
- See-through fabric
- Gym or athletic wear
Leggings or tights are allowed only as underlayers.
Footwear Requirements for Safety
Footwear plays a major role in workplace safety. Starbucks requires shoes that protect partners in fast-paced environments.
Shoe Requirements
- Closed-toe
- Closed-heel
- Slip-resistant soles recommended
Approved Shoe Colors
- Black
- Grey
- Navy blue
- Brown
- Tan
- White (with minimal accents)
Prohibited Footwear
- Sandals
- Open-toe shoes
- Crocs or flip-flops
- High heels, wedges, or stilettos
Shoes should be clean, sturdy, and preferably water-resistant.
The Iconic Green Apron Rules
Every Starbucks partner receives a company-issued green apron, which must be worn at all times during shifts.
Apron Guidelines
- Must be clean and wrinkle-free
- Worn at full length
- Tied in the back only
- No folding or front tying
Personal modifications, embroidery, or patches are not allowed unless approved by Starbucks. The apron represents brand identity and professionalism.
Accessories, Jewelry, and Pins
Allowed Accessories
- Starbucks-issued pins (up to 1.75 inches)
- One labor organization pin
- Solid-colored ties, scarves, or bowties
Jewelry Rules
- One plain ring with no stones
- Small earrings or gauges (up to quarter size)
- One small facial piercing (no larger than a dime)
Prohibited Jewelry
- Watches or bracelets
- Necklaces worn outside clothing
- Tongue piercings or subdermal implants
These rules help maintain food safety standards.
Headwear and Grooming Standards
Approved Headwear
- Starbucks-issued hats
- Plain baseball caps
- Beanies
- Secure religious head coverings
Headwear must be worn securely and face forward.
Hair and Grooming Rules
- Hair must be restrained and away from the face
- All hair textures and permanent colors are allowed
- Beards must be neatly trimmed
Temporary sprays, glitter, or chalks are not allowed.
Tattoos and Personal Appearance
Starbucks remains inclusive regarding self-expression.
Tattoo Policy
- Tattoos allowed everywhere except the face
- Offensive tattoos must be covered
- Henna is allowed if no residue remains
Nail and Hygiene Rules
- Nails must be short and clean
- No nail polish or artificial nails
- Regular bathing and deodorant required
- Strong perfumes are discouraged
These standards help ensure cleanliness and comfort for customers.
Religious and Disability Accommodations
Starbucks understands that dress code rules may conflict with personal needs.
Partners may request accommodations for:
- Religious beliefs
- Disabilities
- Medical conditions
Requests can be made through store managers or the Partner Service Portal. Starbucks evaluates accommodations fairly and respectfully.
Enforcement and Compliance
Partners must follow the dress code before starting a shift. If a partner does not meet requirements, they may be asked to change before working.
Repeated non-compliance may result in corrective action. Store managers make final decisions and provide guidance when questions arise.
FAQs
The 2025 policy simplifies tops to solid black and expands bottoms to include blue denim, focusing on letting the green apron stand out while maintaining safety.
Yes, any shade of blue denim is acceptable for bottoms, as long as they are clean, wrinkle-free, and not distressed or ripped.
Tattoos are permitted everywhere except the face, but any with objectionable content must be covered with clothing or makeup.
Shoes must be closed-toe and closed-heel in approved colors, with slip-resistant soles encouraged for safety.
Securely fastened head coverings like turbans or hijabs are allowed, and partners can request accommodations for sincerely held beliefs.
Conclusion
The Starbucks dress code 2025 creates a clear, professional, and welcoming appearance across all stores. By simplifying colors and highlighting the green apron, Starbucks strengthens its brand while keeping partners safe and comfortable.
Although some adjustments may take time, the updated policy ultimately supports consistency, cleanliness, and customer trust. When partners understand and follow the guidelines, they can focus on what truly matters crafting great beverages and building meaningful connections.
Check Also: Starbucks Call Out Policy
