Stylista File: American Apparel: No "Off Brand" Employees

In February the Cornell Pi Phi Sorority came under fire after their fashion rules were revealed. The girls have specifics do's and don'ts, including no American Apparel leggings. Ironic since both organizations like to tell their underlings what to wear.

American Apparel Eyewear Guidelines, From Gawker.com

Last week rumors started flying regarding American Apparel's employees and their hiring practices (full body and close up photos required!). Now, the fashion rules have been revealed in an email sent to store managers:

(Taken from Gawker.com)

"a) Makeup is to be kept to a minimal- please take this very seriously. Liquid eyeliner, pencil eyeliner and eyeshadow are advised against; mascara must look very natural (ie. should not be clumpy or a color that does not compliment your skin and haircolor). Blush must not be overdone- should not have glitter or sparkles. Liquid foundation is prohibited (undereye concealer is understandable if it looks natural- ie. not clumpy or caked on, must match your skin tone). Please do not use a shiny gloss on your lips; any lipcolor must be subtle.

b) Eyebrows must not be overplucked. Full eyebrows are very much encouraged. Please do not dye your eyebrows a different color.

c) We encourage long, healthy, natural hair, so please be advised of the following:
-Hair must be kept your natural color.
-Blow-drying hair excessively could cause heat damage, so this is advised against.
-"Bangs" or "fringe" are advised against. It is not part of the direction we're moving in.

d) Jewelry must not be distracting. Please do not wear accessories with another brand's logo on it- this includes watches. No gauges whatsoever. One earring per ear is encouraged. Earrings, necklaces, watches, bracelets, etc. must be simple and tasteful."

Unacceptable Watch & Belt, From Gawker.com

Don't worry, they don't discriminate between guys and girls, the guys have rules too:

"a) Hair should look natural. Excessive product to the extent of creating stiffness and an unnatural or greasy appearance to your hair is advised against.

b) Eyebrows should be natural. Please do not dye your eyebrows a different color or overpluck them.

c) Males should not wear makeup.

d) Facial hair needs to be kept clean and well groomed. Any mustache or goatee of a contemporary style are advised against.

e) No gauges allowed whatsoever.

Example of Bad Eyebrows and Desired Eyebrows, From Gawker.com

Reminders about basic dress code:
a) Button-up shirts must be tucked in to trousers.

b) Sneakers of any style are not allowed. Plain white clean Keds or Keds-like shoes are allowed.

c) Please do not wear any earrings. All accessories and watches must be clean, simple, and tasteful. They cannot distract from the garments.

d) Garments must fit properly. Trousers cannot be too tight or too baggy- and must be clean. Shirts cannot be oversized or too tight. If there is an employee that does not wear garments that fit properly, please contact me ASAP so we can resolve the matter.

e) Belts must be worn with trousers that have belt loops."