Target Dress Code In 2024: In-Depth Guidelines for Outfits, Hair and Accessories
With over 1,900 stores and 360,000 employees nationwide serving millions of diverse American shoppers each week, Target aims to provide a welcoming environment for both customers and staff. Target‘s relaxed dress code reflects the company‘s focus on inclusivity and authentic self-expression.
As a retail industry analyst, I‘m often asked: "What is Target‘s employee dress code? Can I wear this or that?" Here I‘ll provide the scoop on Target‘s current guidelines for 2024.
Key Highlights
- Red top and khaki bottoms standard, with jeans now allowed
- Closed-toed shoes required for safety
- Tattoos, piercings and creative personal styles welcomed
Outfits – Shirts, Bottoms, Shoes
The foundational Target employee uniform consists of a red top and khaki bottoms. But today‘s dress code grants more flexibility:
Tops
Any solid red short or long-sleeved t-shirt, polo, sweater or fleece is acceptable. No logos or prints – just basic red. Red hoodies and cardigans also approved.
Bottoms
Khaki or black pants, shorts, skirts, dresses. By 2022, 80% of stores began allowing blue jeans. Some locations still require khakis so verify your store‘s rules.
Denim and yoga pants must be solid colors – no distressing, shredding or cutouts. Leggings allowed if not see-through.
Shoes
Closed-toed, slip resistant shoes mandatory for safety on the retail floor. Sneakers, loafers, oxfords are great choices.
Heels over 2 inches prohibited. No sandals, flip flops or open toes. Non-slip soles ideal.
Hair, Makeup and Accessories
Target welcomes employees to showcase individuality through their hair, makeup and accessories:
- Unnaturally dyed hair in bright colors permitted
- Natural hair textures and protective styles allowed
- Tattoos openly visible, as long as not offensive
- Piercings should be professional (facial no larger than 18 gauge).
- Nail polish approved, as long as nails neatly groomed
- Minimal jewelry like stud earrings, bracelets, rings
- Necklaces must be worn underneath shirt
Recent Dress Code Changes
In 2019, Target began allowing jeans in response to employee feedback for more comfort and flexibility. By 2022, 4 out of 5 locations approved jeans but some stores still require khakis.
Increased self-expression has been welcomed as well. According to an internal memo, store managers now have discretion to approve "trend-forward looks" like graphic tees on a case-by-case basis.
Why Such a Relaxed Dress Code?
As a big-box retailer competing for talent, Target aims to provide an inclusive environment where employees feel comfortable being themselves. Allowing self-expression, within reasonable bounds, empowers workers and improves morale and retention.
A progressive dress code also attracts a diverse customer base. Shoppers want help from staff who reflect their communities and personal styles.
Key Target Dress Code Guidelines
| Category | Permitted | Not Permitted |
|---|---|---|
| Tops | Plain red shirts, sweaters, fleece | Non-red colors, logos, prints |
| Bottoms | Khakis, black pants, jeans | Leggings as pants, shorts above finger-tip length |
| Shoes | Closed-toed athletic or leather shoes | Sandals, open-toed, heels over 2" |
| Hair | Natural textures and colors, creative dyed styles | Messy, unkempt hair |
| Makeup | Professional judgment | – |
| Jewelry | Stud earrings, bracelets, rings | Large hoops, long necklaces |
| Tattoos | Permitted if not offensive | Offensive/inappropriate tattoos |
| Piercings | Discreet facial piercings | Extreme piercings |
In summary, Target‘s dress code offers more creative expression than many retailers while maintaining workplace appropriateness. If in doubt, ask your store manager directly about acceptable options. Focus on great customer experiences, not your outfit!
