On February 4, 2026, video game retailer GameStop introduced new dress code policies that have caused unrest among its retail staff. The new rules are a change from the store’s traditionally casual employee attire, which often included gaming-themed t-shirts, replacing them with a more corporate look.
The dress code has been reported to vary based on employee status. Full-time employees are now expected to wear collared shirts, blouses, or polos with small logos. This change hasn’t been as drastic for part-time employees, who can also opt for solid red or black t-shirts. That being said, all employees can wear any clothing with GameStop branding or shirts provided by vendors.
However, these changes have not been met with unanimous approval. Many employees have taken issue with the timing of the decision and lack of company-supplied uniforms, placing the financial burden onto themselves. Many employees have been left scrambling to revamp their work wardrobe to meet the new requirements suddenly.
Employees have voiced their complaints about having to shoulder the cost of new work attire without receiving an increase in their pay. Many have highlighted the irony that while they will have to bear these costs, GameStop has yet to provide guidance on the type of pants to be worn.
According to the new rules, employees who prefer khaki cargo pants are allowed to continue wearing them, but the classic gaming T-shirts are no longer acceptable. This sudden change in policy has frustrated many employees, especially those who hang up their treasured gaming graphic tees.
With all the changes, the lack of unified messaging across GameStop’s stores is causing issues. The new policy was not communicated comprehensively via official channels to all employees. As a result, some workers report that their managers have yet to discuss these changes.
The gaming-themed tees worn by GameStop employees have traditionally soon as an expression of their enthusiasm for the industry, helping communicate their knowledge to customers. With this new uniform policy, many employees worry that the store will lose its unique, informal atmosphere that differentiated it from competitors like Best Buy or Target.
The removal of graphic tees from the acceptable uniform at GameStop is seen as particularly ironic, as the retailer regular sells such garments within its stores. Some employees argue that their gaming-themed apparel often initiated conversations with customers about products;
Nevertheless, not all employees are accepting the changes quietly. Some workers have chosen to fight back through what they call malicious compliance, while others have refused to conform to the new rules entirely.
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