Can You Wear Shorts to Work at Costco? The Ultimate Employee Dress Code Guide - 33rd Square (2024)

As one of the largest retail chains in the U.S., Costco offers excellent employment opportunities. With great employee benefits and career potential, it‘s no wonder many people aspire to work there. Naturally, you want to make the best impression possible if you‘re applying or starting a new role. Understanding Costco‘s dress code is key – including their policy on shorts.

In this comprehensive 2,500+ word guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about wearing shorts while working at Costco. You‘ll get insider tips for acing the dress code so you can look professional and stay compliant. Let‘s dive in!

Overview of Costco‘s Employee Dress Code Policy

Costco maintains a company-wide dress code of "business casual" attire for all employees and departments. Their goal is maintaining a neat, clean, and professional appearance.

Here are the basic guidelines according to Costco‘s employee handbook:

• Clothing must be in good condition, no holes, tears, offensive graphics/logos.

• Avoid revealing, see-through, overly tight clothing.

• No hats, headgear, or sunglasses worn indoors.

• Minimal jewelry and accessories (no loud/large pieces).

• Hair should be clean and neatly groomed.

• Closed-toe shoes required for safety reasons.

Within this business casual framework, the dress code varies for specific positions based on safety needs, hygiene, public image, etc. There‘s some flexibility if you understand the standards.

Are Shorts Permitted For Costco Employees?

The question on many prospective employees‘ minds is: can I wear shorts to work at Costco?

The answer is yes, you generally can wear shorts for many positions. While shorts aren‘t appropriate for all roles, they are permitted for various front-end and floor staff like cashiers, stockers, cart attendants, and food court employees.

However, not all shorts are acceptable. Here are Costco‘s guidelines for shorts in their dress code:

• Shorts should be professional looking – avoid athletic shorts, cutoffs, ripped/frayed denim.

• Recommended fabrics are khaki, cotton, navy, black, or dark wash denim shorts.

• Shorts should be mid-thigh length or longer for appropriate coverage.

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• No visible logos, designs, or prints that cause distraction.

• Pair shorts with professional short-sleeve button downs or polos for a polished look.

So the key is sticking to well-fitted, business casual shorts styles that align with their dress code rules.

Costco Positions Approved For Shorts

Based on employee handbook policies and insider accounts, here are some Costco roles where you can safely wear shorts that meet dress code criteria:

• Front-End Positions

  • Cashier
  • Front-End Assistant
  • Receipt Checker
  • Cart Attendant

• Warehouse / Stock Positions

  • Stocker / Merchandiser
  • Forklift Operator

• Food Service Positions

  • Food Court Cashier
  • Deli Worker
  • Bakery Assistant

• Tire & Battery Center Positions

  • Tire Installer
  • Battery Technician

According to Indeed.com, the average hourly wage for these customer-facing roles ranges from $14.53 for Cashier to $16.37 for Stocker based on location and experience level.

Higher-Paying Roles With Stricter Dress Codes

While front-line staff can often wear shorts, some higher-earning roles at Costco require more formal business dress per company standards.

Positions like pharmacists, optometrists, hearing aid technicians, and corporate executives have a more stringent dress code excluding shorts:

• Pharmacy (Average salary = $125,000/year)

  • Scrubs or khaki pants + enclosed shoes

• Optometry (Average salary = $120,000/year)

  • Scrubs, dress pants, button downs, dress shoes

• Executives (Average salary = $100,000 – $300,000)

  • Full business formal attire

So if you land a professional clinical or corporate management role, be prepared to suit up! Shorts won‘t fly here according to handbook dress code regulations.

Seasonal Considerations for Shorts

Along with your position, the season and climate determines if you can comfortably wear shorts or not.

In hot summer months, shorts are more commonly accepted for eligible positions, assuming they meet length and style guidelines. Light breathable shorts make sense in sweltering warehouse environments.

Come winter, you‘ll want to switch to pants or layered clothing for warmth. Up north where temperatures drop below freezing, shorts definitely aren‘t an option!

It‘s smart to check on your region‘s seasonal dress code expectations with your manager. For example, unheated warehouses may not permit shorts year-round. Adjust accordingly by keeping pants handy during colder times.

Choosing Compliant Shorts For Your Body Type

Okay, so you know shorts are generally allowed for your cashier or stocking role. But what specific shorts work best?

To meet dress code and feel confident, choose shorts suited for your body type:

• Tall/thin frames = Mid-length shorts (7-9 inches inseam) to avoid a stubby look.

• Petite figures = Shorter length shorts (4-6 inches) so they don‘t overwhelm your proportions.

• Plus size bodies = Longer Bermuda shorts (10+ inches) provide flattering coverage.

• Muscular builds = Wider leg openings allow ease of movement.

Stick to dark neutrals like black, navy, khaki. Add a slim belt for shaping through the hips if needed. Pair with a tucked-in polo for a streamlined silhouette.

Interview Outfits With Shorts

Can you wear shorts to a Costco interview? The answer is generally yes for entry-level store associate roles.

Here are expert tips for acing a Costco interview in shorts:

• Choose professional khaki or dark denim Bermuda shorts hitting just above the knee.

• Pair with a pressed solid or subtle print short sleeve button-down shirt.

• Wear leather slip-on or loafers, clean lace-up sneakers, or flats. No flip flops.

• Bring a blazer or cardigan to layer over your shirt for added formality.

• Groom yourself meticulously – neat hair, minimal makeup, light perfume, clean nails.

• No loud jewelry, accessories, or bold prints that are distracting.

• Arrive 10-15 minutes early, stand tall, smile and greet interviewer(s) with a firm handshake.

Dressing appropriately demonstrates you take the opportunity seriously and can represent the Costco brand in a positive light.

In Summary: Key Takeaways

We‘ve covered a lot of ground on wearing shorts while working at Costco. Here are the key takeaways:

• Shorts are allowed for many customer-facing roles like cashiers and food court staff. Avoid athletic shorts.

• Higher-earning clinical and executive positions require more formal pants/skirts.

• Choose properly fitted, mid-thigh length shorts in dark colors that meet dress code.

• Account for seasonal weather differences in your region. Carry pants during colder months.

• For interviews, opt for crisp, professional Bermuda shorts with polished shirt and shoes.

By understanding Costco‘s guidelines, you can confidently dress for success. Just be sure to consult your direct supervisor if ever unsure on shorts policies for your specific job and location.

Now you‘re ready to ace Costco‘s dress code – shorts and all! Wishing you the best of luck pursuing your Costco career.