Full Breakdown
Starbucks Employees File Lawsuits Over New Dress Code
9/20/2025, 8:12:35 PM
Overview of the Legal Action
Starbucks employees in Illinois, Colorado, and California have initiated legal action against the coffee chain, alleging violations of state laws regarding reimbursement for expenses incurred due to a newly implemented dress code. The lawsuits, filed on September 17, 2025, are backed by the union representing Starbucks workers, Starbucks Workers United. The plaintiffs claim that the dress code, which took effect on May 12, 2025, imposes financial burdens on employees without providing necessary compensation.
Details of the New Dress Code
The updated dress code mandates that all North American Starbucks employees wear a solid black shirt under their green aprons, with options for short or long sleeves. Additionally, employees must wear khaki, black, or blue denim bottoms without patterns or frayed hems, or solid black dresses that are no more than four inches above the knee. Footwear must be black, gray, dark blue, brown, tan, or white and made from waterproof materials. The policy also restricts facial piercings and prohibits certain types of clothing and accessories.
Employee Experiences and Claims
Workers have reported spending significant amounts of their own money to comply with the dress code. For instance, Shay Mannik, a shift supervisor, stated that they incurred costs exceeding $100 for compliant clothing and shoes. Mannik expressed concern over the financial strain, noting, “If I didn’t spend money on the clothing, I’d risk being sent home, written up, or even fired.” Similarly, Andrew Holland, another plaintiff, highlighted that he spent nearly $150 on new shoes, emphasizing the unfairness of the situation given Starbucks' substantial profits.
Official Statements from Starbucks
In response to the lawsuits, Starbucks stated that the dress code was designed to create a more consistent customer experience and provide clearer guidance for employees. The company noted that each employee received two shirts at no cost to help offset the expenses. However, Starbucks did not directly address the reimbursement claims made by the plaintiffs.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of the dress code, including employees and union representatives, argue that the policy is "tone deaf" and exacerbates existing financial pressures on workers, many of whom live paycheck to paycheck. Brooke Allen, a Starbucks employee, remarked, “It’s extremely tone deaf on the company’s part to expect their employees to completely redesign their wardrobe without any compensation.” The lawsuits also reflect broader frustrations with Starbucks' labor practices, as the company has faced numerous unfair labor practice charges in recent years.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Starbucks has provided two shirts to employees, plaintiffs argue that this is insufficient to cover the costs of complying with the new dress code. The lawsuits assert that state laws require employers to reimburse workers for expenses that primarily benefit the employer, a claim that Starbucks has not fully addressed. Additionally, there is a discrepancy in how the dress code is enforced, with some employees reporting being sent home for non-compliance, while others have not faced similar consequences.
What's Next
The legal proceedings are ongoing, with the plaintiffs seeking damages for all affected employees, regardless of union status. If the California Labor and Workforce Development Agency does not act on the complaints filed, the workers plan to pursue a class-action lawsuit in that state as well. The outcome of these lawsuits may have significant implications for labor relations at Starbucks and could influence future company policies regarding employee expenses.
