Can Starbucks Make Me Buy An Expensive Hat?

Question

My partner just got a job at a ‘Reserve Starbucks,’ which has a different dress code than a regular Starbucks. Part of this means she has to wear a hat. But she is not allowed to wear the typical Starbucks baseball cap or visor— she is required to wear a fedora, newsboy cap, or something similarly 1940s-business-chic.

But these kind of hats are expensive?? If she doesn’t own the kind of hat required, can they make her buy one? Shouldn’t they provide it to her if she has to wear it? For context, this is NYC.

John · Accepted Answer

There is no specific yes or no answer to your question, as this issue is governed by state (rather than federal) labor law.  Some states require employers to pay for such mandatory items, other states do not, while still others take a mixed approach.  Additionally, if the employee is only making minimum wage other issues may arise.  You need to contact your state labor board to find out the rules for your locality.

n2mama · Answer

They can’t make her buy one, but they can terminate her employment if she isn’t in compliance with the uniform requirements. They do not have to provide her with the uniform (or headwear), but if she only makes minimum wage, the company is responsible for the maintenance cost of the uniform. Hats like that are not expensive unless you want them to be. As another answer pointed out, you could get something from Amazon for less than $10. And I assume your partner was aware that there was a dress code when she applied for the job. There’s really nothing to complain about here.

A Hunch · Answer

They don't need to supply it for it.
Newsboy hats start at $4.99 on Amazon (with Prime delivery); there are at least 2 dozen that are under $10 and there are ok looking fendora's starting at $7.99.

If you want something more genuine, look at the thrift stores in your area.

Robert · Answer

Why do snowflakes find fault with everything?  She applied for a job at a place with a dress code which was explained to her. She can choose to dress in the required outfit and obtain the necessary hat, or she can look for work elsewhere.  No one is forcing her to buy the hat and work there. They are telling you that to work there you have to follow the dress code.  You choose if you wish to work there.  Why do snowflakes think the world owes them so much.  Starbucks will be fine without your friend and the world will be fine without snowflakes and their neediness

Anonymous · Answer

Many jobs require uniforms. Most employers that require them, provide them. Some don't, and they expect the employee to bear the cost if they want to work there. Ultimately, the decision is yours. Buy the hat and remain employed, or refuse to buy the hat and face the possibility of termination.

Anonymous · Answer

Yes, they made me buy 3 of them and I have never set foot in one. Evil starbucks.

Can Starbucks Make Me Buy An Expensive Hat?

6 Answers