Starbucks Bans Employees From Wearing Engagement Rings (What?!)

Starbucks Bans Employees From Wearing Engagement Rings (What?!)
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Just a day after Starbucks was applauded for making an advert starring two drag queens, haters of frappuccinos and spiced lattes found out this news - the coffee brand announced its employees can no longer wear any jewellery with stones, including engagement rings.

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PA

Starbucks shared its new dress code policy with staff in the US on Friday.

"As a partner, your appearance is a reflection of the Starbucks brand and how we show up collectively is important to our customers," the brand writes in its introduction. "At the same time, we want to build a company where self-expression, empowerment and inclusion are nurtured."

The code includes rules on piercings ("less is more"), hats (obligatory), tattoos (fine, but not allowed on the throat or face), shoes (flats are "a must") and hair ("no bright or unnatural colours") as well as an explanation for its controversial decision on engagement rings.

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Hand with an engagment ring
Getty

"There are food safety rules we have to live by," Starbucks says. "Here's the fine print - wearing a ring is okay if it's a plain band, no stones. Unfortunately, no watches, bracelets or wristbands are allowed. Simple necklaces can be worn under your clothes."

Although "plain bands" are still allowed, the news hasn't gone down well with some baristas and consumers across the pond.

"I would rather see a wedding ring and a watch than someone's "mom" tattoo," said one customer.

"To Starbucks: my wife just said you've instituted a policy that she can't wear her wedding ring to work anymore. Where are your brains?" one man wrote on social media.

News site WKBN reports some staff have also started an online petition asking Starbucks to reverse its decision.

So, is Starbucks' new rule sensible? Or is this strict policy taking health and safety measures too far? Let us know your thoughts @MyDailyUK.

This is the kind of bling Starbucks would just hate...