In-N-Out Burger, a beloved American fast-food chain known for its fresh ingredients, is facing scrutiny over its strict gender-specific dress code. Founded on the West Coast, this family-owned company has garnered celebrity endorsements, but its internal policies have led to significant legal challenges.
Gender-Specific Dress Code at In-N-Out
The dress code at In-N-Out is designed around traditional gender roles. Employees are required to wear distinct uniforms based on their gender identity. Here are the main elements of the dress code:
- Male Uniform:
- Paper boat hats
- White shirts with a specific collar design
- Female Uniform:
- Baseball hats with brims facing forward
- White shirts with a different collar design
Employees who identify as non-binary must still choose one of the designated uniforms. In-N-Out states that the dress code aligns with the gender identity employees select, rather than their assigned sex at birth.
Uniform Regulations
Beyond the uniforms, In-N-Out enforces additional grooming regulations:
- Hair must be tucked into hats for all employees.
- Unnatural hair colors and visible piercings, except for earrings, are prohibited.
- Tattoos must remain covered at all times.
- Men are required to maintain a clean-shaven appearance.
Some employees have expressed discontent with these rules, even sharing personal stories about the impacts of the dress code on their identity. One employee noted the expectation to cover a tattoo with gauze.
Legal Challenges and Controversies
In-N-Out’s strict dress code has led to multiple lawsuits. Notably, in 2015, the company faced legal action when it banned employees from wearing pins advocating for pay raises, which were deemed a violation of the dress code. The case concluded in 2018 with a court ruling against In-N-Out, supporting the employees’ rights to express their opinions.
In 2025, another lawsuit emerged when an employee alleged he was fired for refusing to shave his sideburns, an important aspect of his identity as a Black man. In-N-Out contends that the termination was not related to the employee’s hairstyle. This case has since been moved to arbitration and remains unresolved.
The Future of In-N-Out’s Dress Code
As In-N-Out Burger continues to navigate these legal challenges, the implications of its strict gender-specific employee dress code remain in the spotlight. The policies reflect broader conversations about workplace diversity and identity, highlighting the need for inclusivity in company regulations.
