New Starbucks Dress Code for Baristas Takes Effect Next Month

Starbucks’ dress code will soon be standardized across all North American stores. As part of the revamp plan implemented by CEO Brian Niccol, baristas are to follow a consistent uniform policy.

Starting May 12, Starbucks’ customers will be greeted by baristas wearing solid black shirts under the familiar green aprons. The previous dress code permitted employees to wear any colored shirt. Two branded shirts will also be offered at no cost.

For pants, baristas can choose khaki, black, or blue denim. This is a change from the navy, brown, or gray bottoms allowed at the moment.

“By updating our dress code, we can deliver a more consistent coffeehouse experience that will also bring simpler and clearer guidance to our partners, which means they can focus on what matters most, crafting great beverages and fostering connections with customers,” the company noted in a statement.

The new dress code is part of the larger “Back to Starbucks” initiative visualized by Niccol. Since taking over the CEO position late last year, it has been Niccol’s mission to revitalize the brand and get back to the traditional core values that made its cafes famous.

Back to Starbucks’ Roots

Other changes to Starbucks included a major cut in its drink and food selections. Almost one-third of the menu options were removed to reduce complicated orders and speed up service.

Removed during the COVID-19 pandemic, self-serve milk and sugar stations are now back. Simple customized messages, such as “thanks a latte,” written on cups with a Sharpie pen have also returned. To reinforce its “community coffeehouse” vibe, a more relaxed atmosphere with comfy seating now encourages Starbucks’ customers to hang out longer.

“We’re committed to elevating the in-store experience — ensuring our spaces reflect the sights, smells and sounds that define Starbucks,” Niccol said shortly after becoming the chain’s top executive, per CNN.

In an effort to make everyone “feel welcome and comfortable” in stores, one controversial Starbucks rule — the open-door policy — was axed in January. The policy essentially allowed anyone to sit and stay in a location without buying anything. When the open-door policy was in effect, both customers and employees were occasionally met with unruly and sometimes violent visitors, which created an uncomfortable work environment and negative Starbucks experience.