Emerging Issues in Title vii and Employment Appearance Codes

Abstract

ABSTRACT Although employers have considerable rights to regulate employee appear­ ance, their policies must comply with Title VII. Emerging fashion trends in tattoos, hairstyles, and body piercing present potential challenges to such codes. An analysis of Title VII challenges to employer dress codes is presented. Differences between the application of Title VII to appearance codes and other equal employment issues are noted. The effect of current law on emerging issues is discussed and recommendations for legal compliance are made.