Is this considered employer harassment?

Question

So a few weeks ago I started a new job. I liked it, but the owner is the rudest person I've ever met. I was working yesterday and got called into her office. she told me that my look isn't what she likes and asked if it would kill me to dress more trendy. Then she said I look like crap and that a lot of her friends come in and she knows exactly what they would think of me.

I had been moving tables and setting up displays all day, then she mentioned that my pants were kind of wrinkled. Hello.... I was on the floor organizing stuff. It happens!

I go to work in slacks and nice shirts every day. That's what I was told to wear when I started. No, I'm not ultra trendy, but I'm not a drab either. I'm clean, my hair is done and I wear make-up!

I heard later that she has said the same thing to other employees.

What should I do? Is this harassment?

I don't work in a clothing store.

Answer 1

Is it a well-paying job you want to keep? Or just so-so? I'd ask her to point out in the employee dress code where it says "trendy", if it doesn't mention it, then say "why, of course, if you PREFER trendy, and it's a business requirement, you can, as an employer, pay for the outfits you want us to wear, like a "uniform" as most businesses do that require a certain style. I'd be happy to wear whatever you want if you pay for it".
Sounds like a major B to me. Is it harassment? Well, if there is no specification of a certain style or color of clothes ( ie, uniform ), then it IS bordering on harassment. But claiming that would be a fast track out the door, probably. Most employers don't like hearing the H word. So, ask for a copy of the employee dress code, point out it has no "style" requirements, and offer to wear whatever she wants, as long as the business pays for it. If she doesn't even HAVE an employee contract, then she's got no grounds, other than being a picky B- - - -. Might want to look for a more suitable job if you can't put up with the harassment. Just develop thicker skin, and again, play it off if the business will pay for your new wardrobe, then you'll go along. I doubt she'll pay, and I doubt there's anything in the contract, either. Work sucks, don't it? LOL.
- The Gremlin Guy -

Answer 2

No, she was rude, but I don't think it quaifies for harassment. As the owner, she has the right to set any dress code she likes and has the authority to enforce it. By trendy, I assume she wants you to wear clothes you bought at the store you are working at. There are many clothing stores that provide you with an employee discount so that you can do that.

You could make a complaint to the department of labor as suggested above, but if you do that be prepared to find another job. However, I suggest you ignore the illiterate idiot and either dress more to your bosses liking or update your resume.

Answer 3

An employer has the unaltered right to control the appearance, for business purposes, of their employees. Whether or not she was rude is not a legal question.

Based soely on the facts you presented, you have no cause of action against the employer except to quit in response to her rudeness.

Answer 4

I would laugh at her and in a friendly joking way "I wish I could afford trendy, my budget only allows the classics".

Answer 5

No, what she did isn't illegal, it's just rude. I suspect she has problems with employee turnover, and you could make plans in that regard.

Answer 6

She probably is an ugly hag.lol

It is kinda like intimidation ...i think

Answer 7

She broke no law.

Answer 8

dept of labor you have a claim to make
harassment yes
big dollars in your pocket soon.