Is it legal for an employer to force a new dress code?

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Is it legal for an employer to force a new dress code?

I’ve been working at a call center for over 18 months and they are bringing out a new dress code next month. I will need to wear a shirt, tie, dress pants and shoes. I’m a tech guy and I currently wear polo shirts carpenters pants and sneakers. These clothes have not only been perfectly fine up until now but far more practical for my line of work. Can they force me to wear inappropriate clothing for my job?

Asked on December 27, 2011 under Employment Labor Law, Florida

Answers:

M.D., Member, California and New York Bar / FreeAdvice Contributing Attorney

Answered 12 years ago | Contributor

Do you have an employment contract or union agreement that provides otherwise? Is this dress code a violation of company policy? Is there some form of actionable discrimination at play in this situation? If not, then I'm afraid that you had better go shopping.

In an "at will"employment relationship an employer has a great deal of discretion in setting the terms and conditions of the workplace. This includes enforcing an dress code. For their part, an employee can choose to work for an employer or not.

Noter:  If you refuse to abide by this new policy you can be terminated, with or without notice.


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