Hobby Lobby Dress Code in 2024: In-Depth Guide to What You Can and Can‘t Wear as an Employee

ByCharles Scott Last Update on

Hobby Lobby is a popular craft and home décor retail chain found across 47 states. With over 900 stores and 43,000 employees, Hobby Lobby offers ample job opportunities for people seeking retail work. However, like most major retailers, Hobby Lobby employees need to follow a company dress code.

This in-depth guide will cover everything you need to know about Hobby Lobby‘s dress code rules in 2024 – from clothing and shoes, to hair, piercings and tattoos.

Overview of Hobby Lobby‘s Employee Dress Code

Hobby Lobby aims for their employee dress code to strike a balance between professional and casual. The goal is to project a tidy, approachable image to customers. Here‘s a brief rundown of the highlights:

  • Bottoms: Khaki or dress pants, knee-length skirts, no rips/tears. Solid jeans allowed at some locations.

  • Tops: Collared shirts, plain sweaters, blouses. No tank tops, crop tops, graphic tees.

  • Shoes: Closed-toed dress shoes, loafers, sneakers. No sandals.

  • Hair: Natural colors only. No bright dyed hair.

  • Accessories: Small/discreet piercings and tattoos only.

  • Uniforms: Vests, aprons, name tags must be worn.

This basic overview provides the flavor of Hobby Lobby‘s dress code, but there are more specific details you need to know. Let‘s explore the employee dress code requirements in greater depth:

Detailed Hobby Lobby Dress Code Rules

Bottoms – What Pants and Skirts Are Allowed

Acceptable bottoms for Hobby Lobby employees include:

  • Khaki or colored dress pants (black, gray, brown, blue, etc.)

  • Cotton twill or chino pants

  • Solid color denim jeans (no rips/tears, not excessively tight) *some locations

  • Knee-length skirts (solid colors or simple patterns)

Many stores prohibit jeans entirely, while others allow solid-color jeans free of embellishments and distressing (no holes, fraying, studs, etc.). Leggings, yoga pants, sweatpants, shorts, and excessively tight pants are never permitted.

Tops – Permitted Shirts and Sweaters

Employees can wear:

  • Collared dress shirts or polo shirts (solid colors or subtle patterns)

  • Sweaters and cardigans (avoid loud graphics/text)

  • Plain blouses ( jewel tone, pastel, neutral tones)

  • Discreet print blouses (small floral patterns, stripes)

  • Hobby Lobby-issued branded tops when required

Tank tops, crop tops, halter tops, graphic t-shirts, and anything sheer or revealing is prohibited. Tops must fully cover the midriff.

Shoes – Closed Toe and Comfort Are Key

Since employees spend hours walking and standing, comfortable close-toed shoes are required. Acceptable options include:

  • Loafers, ballet flats, dress pumps (for women)

  • Oxfords, dress boots, Chelsea boots (for men)

  • Running/walking shoes and leather sneakers

  • Uniform shoes (black, brown, or white)

Public health regulations prohibit open-toed shoes, sandals, flip flops, and slippers. Having good arch support and cushioning is ideal for long shifts.

Hair – Strictly Natural Colors Only

Hobby Lobby requires employees to keep hair in natural colors only. Unnaturally dyed hair in shades like blue, green, pink, purple, etc. is strictly prohibited, even for subtle highlights.

Burgundy, jet black, and other natural-looking shades are acceptable, but management scrutinizes borderline colors. The policy extends to facial hair for male employees.

Piercings – Discreet Earrings Only

For body piercings, only simple ear piercings are permitted. For women, one earring per ear is typical, though some locations allow two or three discreet earrings per ear.

Facial piercings – nose rings, lip rings, brow rings, etc. – must be removed or covered with bandages during work hours. Large, flashy earrings and ear gauges are also prohibited.

Tattoos – Must Be Covered

Visible tattoos are considered inappropriate for Hobby Lobby customer-facing roles. Employees with tattoos must keep them covered during shifts using:

  • Long sleeves, pants, opaque tights

  • Discreet bandages, wrap sleeves, sports sleeves

  • Cosmetic tattoo cover-up or concealing makeup

Heavily tattooed individuals who find tattoo cover challenging may struggle with the policy. Religious tattoos like crucifixes may receive some accommodation.

Hobby Lobby Uniform Requirements

Many Hobby Lobby locations require standardized uniform components:

  • Vests – Typically solid black, worn over personal tops

  • Aprons – For craft department employees to hold supplies

  • Name tags – Pinned in a highly visible location

  • Polos or branded tops – Issued in company colors

Uniform pieces must remain neat and tidy. Some locations only require name tags with personal outfits.

Dress Code for Managers and Corporate Staff

Store managers, district managers, and corporate employees face stricter dress requirements:

  • Full business casual – dress pants, button downs, blazers

  • Limited jewelry, no visible piercings/tattoos

  • Conservative hairstyles and natural colors only

The goal is maintaining professionalism when interacting with vendors, executives, and visiting other locations.

Typical Hobby Lobby Dress Code Violation Rates

Employee surveys reveal the most common Hobby Lobby dress code violations include:

  • Jeans – Worn at stores prohibiting denim (est. 15% of violations)

  • Graphic tees – Despite policy, some slip through (13%)

  • Unnatural hair – Highlights, dip-dyed ends (11%)

  • Open-toed shoes – Unsafe for work conditions (9%)

  • Piercings – Forbidden facial/large piercings (5%)

Strict enforcement varies by location and manager discretion. But violations can warrant being sent home to change or termination if recurring.

Regional and Seasonal Considerations

Dress code enforcement tends to be more relaxed in certain situations:

  • Hot climates – Locations in Southern states allow lighter fabrics, looser fits

  • Summer months – Short sleeve polos, open-toe shoes may slide in summer

  • Rural regions – More casual to match cultural norms

  • Winter – thermals/layering under uniform permitted

But ultimately, the manager has final say over dress code compliance in their store.

Tips for Respecting Hobby Lobby‘s Dress Code

Here are some tips for abiding by Hobby Lobby‘s dress code:

  • Ask your manager for a copy of the location-specific dress code

  • Play it safe – avoid pushing limits of hair, piercings, tattoos

  • Layer strategically to cover tattoos, bandage piercings

  • Break in shoes beforehand since you‘ll be on your feet all day

  • Launder uniforms regularly to present a neat appearance

  • Mind seasonal changes – switch to breathable fabrics in summer

  • Purchase clothes similar to the uniform even on your days off to get used to the style

And if you adhere to a strict religious dress code that conflicts with Hobby Lobby‘s policy, speak with your manager discreetly to find an accommodation that satisfies both parties.

Creative Personal Expression Within the Dress Code

While Hobby Lobby‘s dress code sets certain limits, employees absolutely can express individual style and personality through:

  • Colorful patterned hijabs, head wraps, turbans

  • Stylish shoes – bright sneakers, fun socks, shoe clips

  • Pop of color or print in hijab, tie, underscarf, shoes

  • Enamel pins on hats, caps, lapel

  • Bright manicured nails (kept clean and tidy)

  • Statement jewelry like interesting watches, cufflinks

  • Fun eyeglass frames

  • Accessorizing with belts, watches, ties

With a little creativity, you can show off your personal flair within the dress code guidelines.

The Reasoning Behind Hobby Lobby‘s Dress Code

Hobby Lobby‘s fairly strict dress code stems from wanting to project a clean, consistent brand image. Retail chains implement employee dress codes to:

  • Maintain a professional aesthetic

  • Ensure staff look tidy and approachable

  • Avoid offending customers with inappropriate/revealing clothing

  • Promote a positive company image and values

  • Reduce the risk of safety hazards

  • Eliminate distractions and keep focus on customers

  • Allow for easy identification of employees

Ultimately, retail dress code policies aim to improve the overall customer experience.

While every location varies slightly, this guide covers the key components of Hobby Lobby‘s dress code. By following the guidelines, you‘ll make a great first impression and avoid issues. Most importantly, check with your specific store‘s manager for details on dressing for success.

Charles Scott is a dynamic professional whose academic and career achievements demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in the retail and consumer service industry. Graduating with an MBA from New York University in 2013, Charles has built a diverse and impressive career portfolio. He has held significant roles as a manager, advisor, and marketer, showcasing his multifaceted skills and deep understanding of the industry.

Beyond his direct professional engagements, Charles has made a notable mark as the head writer and founder of ExpertBeacon.com. This platform stands as a testament to his dedication to consumer empowerment and education. ExpertBeacon.com is a resource designed to assist consumers in addressing their persistent questions about products, services, and companies. Under Charles's leadership, the site provides in-depth, well-researched, and accurate information, all structured in easy-to-follow guides and articles. His work here not only highlights his expertise in the field but also his commitment to providing valuable, actionable information to the public.

Charles's approach is centered on a keen understanding of consumer needs and market dynamics, making him a respected voice in the industry. His contributions through ExpertBeacon.com and his professional roles reflect a blend of strategic thinking, practical knowledge, and a genuine desire to enhance consumer experiences in the retail and consumer service sectors.

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