Walgreens has been in operation for over 100 years and has evolved from its early drug store roots to being a trusted source of expert pharmaceutical advice, as well as a beauty destination.
That means that employees have to look the part, maintaining a professional appearance at all times. So then, does Walgreens have a dress code, and how strict is it?
This is incredibly important for any current or prospective employees, so keep reading to find the answer below!
Does Walgreens Have A Dress Code In 2024?
Walgreens does have a specific dress code for front-end team members, consisting of solid black pants or knee-length skirts, company-issued polos, closed-toe shoes, and a name badge, worn above the waist as of 2024. While other departments of the store carry their own specific dress codes, everyone is expected to adhere to their required dress guidelines.
To learn more about what Walgreen’s dress code includes, such as if it prohibits dyed hair or the wearing of jeans, if you have to cover your tattoos or piercings, and more, read on!
What Is The Walgreens Dress Code?
As mentioned earlier, Walgreens has a century-old reputation to uphold, so the company takes appearance very seriously.
Employees are to strictly adhere to the Walgreens dress code, which is limited to black slacks, the company-issued polo, and nice sneakers or business casual shoes (close-toed).
Skirts are also acceptable for women, provided they are also solid black and knee-length (at least).
Employees are also permitted to wear long sleeves under their polos if they anticipate being cold, provided the shirts are a solid shade of white, gray, or black.
Walgreens also wants its team members to project a look that is neat and clean while refraining from wearing overpowering perfume or cologne.
This Walgreens corporate PDF about the dress code from 2020 also gives a comprehensive list of prohibited items:
- Sweatpants and sweatshirts
- Jeans or any denim
- Leggings
- Shorts
- Headwear/hats, except those worn for religious reasons
- Short skirts
- Sleeveless shirts or t-shirts
- Shoes that do not completely cover the foot (e.g., open-toe, sandals)
- Sunglasses
- Excessive jewelry
- Anything with a hood
- Overly revealing clothing (both of skin and that is too tight)
- Offensive tattoos (imagery that is racist, sexist, etc.)
Further, Walgreens has taken a surprisingly generous stance regarding its employees’ ability to wear pins or buttons which show support for any non-political group or organization.
This includes LGBTQIA+ and Pride Month, “Lives Matter” movements, Red Nose Day or, say, Autism Awareness.
Pins or buttons of this nature are allowed to be affixed to the Walgreens employee uniform.
Does Walgreens Have Uniforms?
Walgreens does uniform its employees, providing polo shirts with the company logo to its new hires.
Someone commented on this Indeed thread that they start you out with three shirts. Of course, if you need more throughout your tenure, you can ask your manager.
Depending on what department you are in, you will also be supplied with smocks (this is for Beauty employees).
Can Walgreens Employees Wear Jeans?
Walgreens does not allow its employees to wear jeans as part of their work uniform.
The only permitted pant is slacks (chinos or khakis) and the only color allowed is solid black.
This helps Walgreens create a “business casual” and uniform look among employees, who are often the first (and sometimes only) point of contact customers have with the brand.
Can You Have Dyed Hair And Work At Walgreens?
Walgreens doesn’t mention hair or hairstyles in its employee onboarding document concerning dress codes.
Therefore, we can assume that Walgreen has no policy against having hair-dyed colors that are not considered “natural” (like blues, purples, greens, etc.).
Some might have different ideas about what constitutes “professional,” but the dress code guidebook is vague on the topic.
That being said, it’s always going to be best to check in with your manager beforehand.
What Is Walgreens Dress Code On Tattoos And Piercings?
Walgreens’ onboarding PDF concerning dress code simply states that visible tattoos cannot be “offensive in nature.”
While that wording is vague, we can take it to mean nothing racist, misogynistic, overtly sexual, or vulgar.
However, Piercings aren’t directly addressed, but some employees chimed in on this Indeed thread, with one stating it depends on the manager.
Another says that facial piercings aren’t allowed, but a further former employee said they had visible face piercings and had no issues.
They just made sure their overall appearance was professional and well-kempt.
This is another area where you will want to ask your manager for their input because their preferences could play a role in determining the dress code for that specific store.
Can You Wear A Hat To Work at Walgreens?
Walgreens does not allow employees to wear hats as part of the uniform, not even ones that might be branded.
They are simply not part of the “look” Walgreens wishes to convey.
However, anyone with headwear that pertains to their religious beliefs is, of course, permitted to wear that apparel while working.
What Should You Wear to An Interview at Walgreens?
A good rule of thumb when dressing for an interview is to wear something one step up in formality from what the employees wear.
Additionally, Walgreens dress code occupies a slightly grey area between casual and business casual, so business casual would be appropriate (business formal would look out of place).
Therefore, Chinos or khakis, closed-toe shoes, and a nice polo or blouse (for women) would all be appropriately professional for an interview at Walgreens.
To know more, you can also read our posts on what is Walgreens, Walgreens bereavement policy, and how to quit Walgreens.
Conclusion
Walgreens dress code for front-of-house associates is laid out in the company’s guidelines, and it includes black slacks and a company polo.
However, employees can express their individuality with non-political buttons and pins, but otherwise, they are expected to strictly adhere to the dress code.