With over 1.5 million employees across over 4,700 stores in the U.S., Walmart‘s dress code policies impact many workers and shoppers alike. In this detailed guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about Walmart‘s dress code today, including rules around shorts, hoodies, hats, hair, piercings, and more.
Back in 2018, Walmart relaxed their notoriously strict dress code to allow for more self-expression. But the new policy still has many ins and outs that leave employees with questions.
Whether you‘re considering working at Walmart or are a current employee looking for a refresher, this guide will outline the do‘s and don‘ts of dressing for the job in 2022. Let’s get started!
A Quick History of Walmart‘s Dress Code
Up until 2018, Walmart had a very rigid dress code policy. It required men and women to wear navy or khaki bottoms with a collared white or blue shirt. This uniform was Walmart’s policy for several decades and became an iconic part of their brand image.
But driven by employee feedback requesting more comfortable attire, Walmart unveiled a brand new dress code in June 2018.
This code replaced the classic navy uniforms with “a more relaxed environment that empowers all associates to approach work comfortably, while still maintaining a clean, neat, professional appearance.”
Giving associates freedom of self-expression was the goal behind the dress code change. Walmart stated that “associates all over the country wanted the ability to wear clothes that fit their individual needs and personalities”.
The new policy represents Walmart’s efforts to rebrand as a progressive, employee-focused company in the modern age of retail.
Walmart Dress Code Guidelines
So what exactly changed with Walmart’s new dress code in 2018? Here are the key guidelines:
- Associates can wear shirts and jeans of any solid color
- Joggers, cargo pants, and sweatpants are permitted
- Shorts and skirts are allowed in appropriate lengths
- Open toe shoes like sandals can be worn
- Hats are permitted in some positions
- Tattoos can be visible
- Associates can now have facial hair
- Hair color guidelines are relaxed
Associates are simply required to look “clean, neat, and professional.” Offensive, inappropriate, or unsafe clothing is prohibited.
Every employee is still issued a navy or green branded vest, name tag, and badge that must be worn while on the clock. But associates now have extensive freedom around what they wear under the uniform pieces.
Compared to the old rigid 1950s-esque dress code, Walmart’s new standards represent a major shift into the 21st century retail environment. Workers now have options like jeans, hoodies, sneakers, and hats that enable self-expression and comfort.
Next let’s get into the frequently asked dress code questions around shorts, hoodies, hair, piercings, and more.
Shorts at Walmart: What‘s Allowed?
One of the most common questions about Walmart’s current dress code is around wearing shorts on the job.
The official policy states shorts are permitted as long as they are no more than 3.5 inches above the knee. This generally allows modest shorts that hit mid-thigh or lower.
Cutoffs, athletic shorts, bike shorts, beach shorts, short shorts, or mini skirts do not comply with the dress code standards.
For shoppers visiting Walmart in the summer, shorts are likely the outfit of choice during the hot months. Employee dress codes permitting shorts help associates feel solidarity with customers.
Shorts also provide a safety benefit for Walmart workers operating in hot corners of the store. Allowing shorts prevents workers from overheating in warehouses, the garden center, and outdoors.
So for most workers, shorts present an opportunity to remain professional while staying cool. But there are role-specific exceptions:
- Cashiers are discouraged from wearing shorts for a more formal appearance.
- Pharmacy associates should avoid shorts to look authoritative.
- Stockers and warehouse associates often need long pants for safety while moving heavy items.
In these positions, it‘s best to wear professional uniform pants or neat denim instead of shorts.
The key is dressing appropriately for your specific position and store location. A retail worker in Arizona can get away with more casual shorts, while a manager in Minnesota may need to opt for pants.
Are Hoodies Allowed? Dress Code for Hoodies at Walmart
Along with shorts, hoodies standout as a controversial new clothing item permitted under Walmart’s policy.
Associates are generally allowed to wear hoodies at Walmart, a major change from the restriction of old policies. But some limitations around hoodie wear still exist:
- Hoods cannot be worn up for safety reasons
- No oversized or sloppy looking hoodies
- Offensive logos or designs are prohibited
- Hoodies are often banned for cashiers
For most floor associates, stockers, and backroom positions, a solid color hoodie worn properly is dress code approved. This enables associates to layer up in the cooler months while stocking shelves or working outside.
But workers who directly serve customers, like cashiers, are discouraged from wearing hoodies to maintain a tidy professional appearance.
With appropriate hoodie choices, associates can show their personality and style while remaining work-ready. But use common sense – an old stained hoodie with a marijuana leaf logo will definitely violate standards!
Hats and Headwear Policy for Walmart Associates
Along with hoodies, the policy on hats is another frequently asked dress code question. Like hoods, hats are role-specific at Walmart:
- Cashiers cannot wear any hats while ring up customers
- Sales floor and stockroom associates can wear Walmart-issued caps
- Cold weather departments like outdoor garden may allow beanies
- Food prep and grocery areas require hair nets or caps
The takeaway is that only Walmart-branded baseball caps are permitted for most employees. And even then, not for public-facing cashier positions.
This hat policy prevents associates from wearing inappropriate or offensive third-party hats. It also keeps a consistent Walmart image since customers will only see regulation logo caps.
For bakery, deli, and grocery associates, hair nets and caps are required by health codes when handling food. These departments have more restrictive operational dress codes.
So unless you want to show off a new Walmart hat, leave your personal caps at home. But if it‘s freezing in the garden center, a solid color beanie may be approved by your manager.
Walmart Tattoo Policy: Can Associates Show Tattoos?
Prior to the 2018 policy update, Walmart had very strict rules about tattoos. Visible tattoos larger than 1 inch were banned and had to be covered.
But thankfully, the new dress code takes a more progressive stance on tattoos. Now tattoos of any size can be visible as long as they are appropriate.
Offensive, profane, racist, sexual or extremist tattoos will need to be covered or concealed with sleeves or bandages. This applies to any body location – arms, legs, neck, face, etc.
Some examples of prohibited tattoos include:
- Swear words
- Nudity
- Gang affiliations
- Hate speech
Tasteful, non-offensive tattoos can now be proudly displayed. For example, an arm tattoo of a flower or quote is perfectly acceptable to show.
This policy empowers associates with body art to be their authentic selves. Customers also enjoy seeing associate‘s personalities and interests expressed through tattoos.
Unnatural Hair Colors Approved for Walmart Associates
Along with body art, Walmart‘s dress code permits associates to express themselves through vibrant hair colors.
The handbook states:
"Hair color must be natural tones and not extreme. For example, pink, purple, green hair is not allowed."
But employees report this policy is not strictly enforced. Many stores allow bright highlights, ombre, and unnaturally dyed hair. The key is keeping it neat and non-distracting.
For example, a stylish ombre fade from brown to light blonde would comply with standards. But chunky blonde highlights with dark grown-out roots may be considered too extreme.
Subtle and professional is they key with hair color. Save the two-tone mullets and green mohawks for the weekend!
Are Facial Piercings Allowed?
Thanks to the 2018 dress code update, most facial piercings are now permitted for Walmart associates. This includes:
- Nostril piercings
- Septum piercings
- Lip piercings
- Brows piercings
- Ear piercings
The only exception is for associates handling fresh food. Piercings pose a health risk around bakery items, produce, meat, and dairy.
For these food prep roles, facial piercings are still restricted. But they can be worn discreetly with clear spacers or retainers.
As long as jewelry is small and understated, facial piercings add a stylish accent an associate‘s look. Bold bars, huge stretched gauges, or excessive piercings should be avoided.
Exceptions Within Walmart Dress Code
While Walmart‘s company-wide dress code sets baseline standards, exceptions can vary:
- Management roles may require more formal business attire
- Store/regional managers can override policies as they see fit
- High theft stores may ban hoodies and hats
- Specific events like a visit from corporate can mandate dress clothes
For example, a store manager may prohibit shorts in the deli or jewelry department to maintain a refined atmosphere.
Or unseen factors like a high-theft store location can result in banning hoodies and hats to discourage shoplifters.
Associates should follow the general dress code policies but remain flexible. For important events or scenarios, follow any temporary guidelines from management.
And when in doubt, always defer to your direct supervisor‘s expectations for your department. They have the final judgment call for their area of the store.
Why Does Walmart‘s Dress Code Matter?
A company‘s dress code makes an important statement about its values. With 2.3 million global associates, Walmart‘s policy impacts many lives.
The 2018 relaxed dress code brought Walmart‘s standards into the 21st century retail environment. It enables associates to feel comfortable and express themselves while working.
Happy associates lead to better customer interactions. Customers also appreciate seeing associates reflect their own diverse styles and preferences.
A modern, flexible policy also helps Walmart attract talent in a competitive hiring landscape. Younger generations prioritize self-expression and avoid cookie-cutter uniforms.
Most importantly, enabling associates to be their authentic selves fosters a spirit of inclusion and belonging at work. Walmart‘s dress code plays a big role in their rebranding as a progressive company.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways on Walmart‘s Dress Code
The bottom line is that Walmart‘s dress code today provides more flexibility than ever before in the company‘s history.
Here are some key takeaways:
- Jeans, shorts, hoodies, and athleisure are now permitted
- Hats are role-specific; only Walmart caps allowed
- Tattoos and piercings are generally approved
- Associates have extensive freedom for self-expression
- Offensive or dangerous clothing always prohibited
With great freedom comes great responsibility. Associates should use common sense and avoid pushing limits.
When in doubt, defer to your manager‘s expectations for your specific department. Keep it professional – but be yourself!
So step into those new jeans or shorts and proudly flaunt your personal style. Walmart‘s dress code has officially entered the 21st century.
