Disney updates cast member dress code, allows tattoos, gender inclusive hairstyles

Disney is making major changes to its dress and style code policy for its cast members as it moves forward to implement its fifth guiding business key (principle) – inclusion.

Disney is opening up its approach to provide a greater flexibility with respect to forms of personal expression surrounding gender-inclusive hairstyles, jewelry, nail styles, and costume choices; and allowing appropriate visible tattoos,” Chairman, Disney Parks, Experiences and Products Josh D’Amaro said.

“We’re updating them to not only remain relevant in today’s workplace, but also enable our cast members to better express their cultures and individuality at work,” he said in a statement.

So what do the changes mean? Let’s take a closer look, ac cording to the new guidelines that have been released

Tattoos: Visible tattoos are now permitted with exception of face, head or neck. They also can not be larger than the Cast Member’s hand when fully extended with the fingers held together. In addition, tattoos that depict nudity, offensive or inappropriate language or images will not be permitted.

Headwear: All Cast Members may wear headwear for religious purposes. Solid black, white, or a color that coordinates with the costume is permitted.

Facial hair: Facial hair should be neatly groomed and well maintained. The shaving of lines or shapes in facial hair is permitted provided they do not depict offensive words or symbols.

Hairstyling and hair coloring: Hair length, including completely shaved styling, is at the Cast Member’s discretion. Hair below shoulder length should be secured if it falls forward over the face or covers the nametag while working. If the hair color is changed, it should be well maintained and in natural- occurring hues. Examples of hair colors that are not considered natural would be colors such as blue, green, pink, purple, etc. The shaving of lines or shapes in the hair is permitted provided they do not depict offensive words or symbols.

Body modifications or alterations: Intentional body modification or alteration for the purpose of achieving a visible, physical effect that disfigures, deforms or similarly detracts from a professional image is prohibited. Examples include, but are not limited to: brands, body piercing (other than ear piercing), tongue piercing or splitting, tooth filing, earlobe expansion, and disfiguring skin implants.

Jewelry for costumed cast members: Jewelry is permitted provided it does not distract from the overall appearance and preserves the magical Guest experience. A visible wrist and/or ankle bracelet in good taste and condition may be worn with the costume. Bracelets should not exceed one inch in width, andmust fit closely to prevent slippage. Charm bracelets are approved provided the charm or dangle does not exceed one-half inch below the wrist/ankle or interfere with daily work assignments. Cause bracelets, which remind our Guests of the realities of the outside world, are not permitted.

Watches should have minimal ornamentation.

A modest visible necklace in good condition may be worn with the costume top. The necklace should be clean, complement the costume, and not interfere with work assignments. If a pendant is attached, it should not exceed one inch in size.

Earrings must be simple, matched pairs in gold, silver, or a color that matches the costume.Two earrings in each ear are permitted. Earrings may be clip-on or pierced, post, hoop or dangle and may be worn anywhere on the ear. Earrings may not exceed 2 inches in length/circumference.

A ring may be worn on any finger, however only one ring on each hand is permitted. (Wedding/Engagement ring sets count as one.)

Activity fitness trackers and/or smart watches may not be allowed in some areas. Guidelines may vary by line of business due to safety guidelines. Please see a leader for additional details.

Jewelry for non-costumed cast members: Rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, lapel pins/brooches, tie bars, cuff links, scarf clips and wristwatches are permitted. Cause bracelets are not permitted. Earrings must be simple, matched pairs in gold, silver, or a color that matches the outfit. Two earrings in each ear are permitted. Earrings may be clip-on or pierced, post, hoop or dangle and may be worn anywhere on the ear.

All of these changes comes

“We want our guests to see their own backgrounds and traditions reflected in the stories, experiences and products they encounter in their interactions with Disney. And we want our cast members – and future cast members – to feel a sense of belonging at work,” D’Amaro wrote.

Earlier this year Disney expanded its longstanding tradition of The Four Keys – Safety, Courtesy, Show and Efficiency – with Inclusion. These keys are used as blueprints when making decisions during the workday and with interactions with guests.

“The 5 Keys – with Inclusion at the heart – will continue to guide us as we interact with guests, collaborate together, create the next generation of Disney products and experiences, and make critical decisions about the future of our business,” D’Amaro said.

Inclusion is not only directed to cast members, but includes enhancements changes to attractions such as the change to the Jungle Cruise and Splash Mountain.