Fashion

[Reever]

Does anyone on the chat boards work at Macys? I happened to enter a local Macys today and noticed the associates are now wearing color. I recall about 10 years ago Macys transitioned to an entire black uniform attire which I never cares form. I always commented that they all look like they are dressed for a funeral. It was a pleasure to see some color amongst the staff. I would like to know if that is a permanent policy change or perhaps the local manager allowed a "dress down" day ?

[sandy53]

A little off topic --- I was at the tanning salon last week and the manager apologized for being out of dress code (she said she had been sick).  I was surprised that they have a dress code there.  We never had a dress code when I was teaching, but there were times when I thought we should have had one.

[ECBG]

Dress codes are required because to ensure someone doesn't dress inappropriately.  Macy's "all black" was probably so associates didn't have to spend so much of their (low) pay on clothing.  Also, their personal style may not be the company's image.

[phoenixbrd]

I actually liked the black uniform policy at Macy's.  It tends to look more professional and polished (have you ever seen "yes to the dress"...all in black and I can't imagine it otherwise).  It is good marketing strategy, as we tend to perceive someone who is appropriately dressed as trustworthy. (When working for an employer, you have an obligation regarding your work dress.  On your own time, pull out all the stops if you wish.) Also for the reasons stated by @ECBG

[kaydee50]

I never realized Macy's had a dress code.  For all departments?  News to me and I go there fairly regularly.

[ECBG]

Dress codes are very important to companies.

Just the other day, a newer associate (I'd guess about 55, not a teenager) came in wearing psychodelic washed out leggings, black top, and a long white woven vest with tassels.  I work in an essentially classic inspired lady's store after teaching.  All black or any solid color is always an option.

Yes, she had bought several of our items.  The manager was stunned.

[DiAnne]

I used to go to a hair salon that had a dress code.  Males - white button down shirts, ties, black pants.  Females white blouses, black rather short skirts and high heels.  

[chrystaltree]

That must be a regional thing, the Macy's workers here don't wear uniforms and never did wear uniforms.  

[kittyloo]

any time i have worked at a place with a dress code (and there have been many) no matter what it is, someone is trying to push the limits.

when it was black and white, there was always someone showing up in dingy grey/white shirts, ragged walked on trousers, or tops either too low cut, dresses too short. 

sneaker day, there was always one or two who would show up in uber ratty, dirty, sneakers. 

the manager always had to decide, send the employee home to change, and be short staffed, or they could buy something off the floor. (if they had the funds to do so)

it was a on going battle. always seemed to be the same people too. 

[roeroe1005]

When I worked at Saks Fifth Avenue, between Thanksgiving and Christmas, we had to wear black & red on the weekends.  I think to match our shopping bags & boxes.

I worked at Bloomingdales for a very short time this holiday season.  We were supposed to wear only grey and black.  Very "holiday".  Not knowing, I wore a pink top with black pants my first day and the employees were staring at me as if I came in topless.  As I said, I worked there a very short time.

I would not be surprised if Macy's does have some kind of dress code.