Are you a new or aspiring Instacart shopper wondering what to wear while picking out produce and delivering groceries? You‘re not alone. One of the most common questions people have when starting out as an Instacart shopper is about the company‘s dress code policy.
The good news is, compared to many other jobs, Instacart offers a lot of flexibility and freedom in terms of what shoppers can wear. However, there are still some general guidelines and best practices to keep in mind. In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll cover everything you need to know about Instacart‘s dress code so you can look professional, stay comfortable, and focus on providing excellent service to customers.
Instacart‘s Official Dress Code Policy
First, let‘s take a look at Instacart‘s official stance on shopper attire. According to the company, there is no strict uniform that full-service shoppers are required to wear. Instacart wants shoppers to be comfortable and dress in a way that makes sense for their individual preferences and the environment they‘re working in.
With that said, Instacart does provide some general recommendations:
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Wear closed-toe shoes for safety and hygiene reasons. You‘ll be on your feet a lot, so choose comfortable, supportive footwear.
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If you have long hair, tie it back away from your face. This keeps your hair out of the way and prevents it from coming into contact with food.
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Consider wearing Instacart branded gear like a t-shirt or hat to identify yourself as a shopper. This isn‘t required, but it can be helpful.
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Dress appropriately for the weather conditions and store environment. In cold climates or refrigerated sections, wear layers to stay warm.
Instacart shoppers who are employees of the company, like some dedicated in-store shoppers, may have additional guidelines to follow based on their specific role and location. For example, in-store shoppers may be required to wear a uniform shirt or apron provided by Instacart.
According to a survey by The Rideshare Guy, over 90% of Instacart shoppers are either satisfied or very satisfied with their job overall. Flexibility, including the ability to choose their own clothing, is often cited as a top perk.
"I love that I can just roll out of bed and start working in my pajamas if I want to," said Sarah K., a full-service Instacart shopper in Los Angeles. "As long as I‘m presentable and not wearing anything offensive, it‘s all good."
Psychological Benefits of Dressing for Success
While Instacart shoppers aren‘t required to dress in business attire, there are some psychological benefits to putting effort into your appearance. Studies have shown that what we wear can impact our confidence, attitude, and performance on the job.
For example, a study published in the Journal of Experimental Social Psychology found that participants who wore lab coats described as "doctor‘s coats" displayed increased attention compared to those wearing "painter‘s coats." The researchers concluded that clothing can have symbolic meaning that influences our behavior.
"Enclothed cognition" is the scientific term for the influence that clothes have on the wearer‘s psychological processes. When we dress in a way that makes us feel confident and professional, it can translate into improved focus, engagement, and interpersonal interactions.
Wearing clean, neat, and situationally-appropriate clothing signals to customers and store employees that you take your job seriously. It conveys respect and trustworthiness, which can make your interactions smoother and more positive. Dressing professionally can also help you get into a productive mindset and stay motivated throughout your shift.
Outfit Ideas for Comfort and Practicality
So what does an ideal Instacart shopping outfit actually look like? The key is to find a balance between comfort, mobility, and professionalism. Here are some specific clothing item suggestions:
- Breathable, moisture-wicking tops like t-shirts or polos in neutral colors
- Comfy pants with some stretch, like chinos, khakis, or dark-wash jeans
- Layers like zip-up hoodies, cardigans, or light jackets for temperature changes
- Closed-toe, non-slip shoes like sneakers, loafers, or supportive flats
- Socks made from moisture-wicking materials like merino wool or bamboo
- A belt or fanny pack to hold your phone, ID, payment card, and other essentials
Depending on your personal style and identity, you may also opt for items like skirts, dresses, or more fashionable accessories. The goal is to choose an outfit that allows you to move freely, stay at a comfortable temperature, and project a tidy appearance.
Many experienced Instacart shoppers recommend choosing a "uniform" and sticking with it. Having a go-to outfit formula saves time and mental energy. You can purchase multiples of the same general pieces to rotate throughout the week.
"I have a basic ‘uniform‘ that I wear for Instacart: black leggings, a loose-fitting tunic top or t-shirt, a zip-up hoodie, and running shoes," said Jenna R., a shopper in Toronto. "I probably own 5 variations of this outfit. It‘s super comfortable, I don‘t have to think about what to wear, and everything goes into the wash together."
Hygiene Considerations for Food Safety
As an Instacart shopper, you‘ll be handling food that will end up on someone‘s dinner table. That means it‘s extra important to practice good hygiene and follow food safety guidelines. Your clothing choices play a role in this.
Opt for clothing that is easy to clean and doesn‘t shed, lint, or transfer debris. Avoid materials like wool or sequins that can easily contaminate food products. If you have long hair, keep it tied back securely. Wash your hands frequently, and consider keeping a bottle of hand sanitizer in your pocket or bag.
It‘s a good idea to keep an extra set of clean clothes in your car in case of spills or messes. You don‘t want to risk contaminating food or making a bad impression on customers because of stained or smelly clothing.
Food safety is a top priority for Instacart. The company provides free food safety training for all shoppers and requires them to pass a quiz before starting work. Adhering to proper hygiene and sanitation practices, including with your attire, helps protect customers and uphold Instacart‘s reputation.
Saving Money on Workwear as an Independent Contractor
One potential downside of being an independent contractor is that you‘re responsible for providing your own "uniform." Instacart shoppers don‘t receive a clothing stipend or reimbursement. However, there are ways to save money and still dress the part.
Consider the following budget-friendly strategies:
- Shop at discount retailers like Walmart, Target, or Old Navy for basics
- Check thrift stores or consignment shops for gently-used items
- Wait for sales events or use coupons to stock up on essentials
- Sign up for store loyalty programs to earn rewards on your purchases
- Buy clothes off-season when they‘re cheaper (e.g. shorts in September)
- Invest in a few higher-quality pieces that will last instead of fast fashion
- See if your purchases are tax-deductible as a business expense
You can also cut costs by opting for versatile pieces that can be mixed, matched, and layered. The more outfits you can create from a few key items, the less you‘ll need to spend on your work wardrobe.
Many Instacart shoppers also recommend setting a monthly or quarterly clothing budget. Calculate how much you‘re earning from Instacart and allocate a specific percentage towards buying and replacing clothing. This will help you stay on track and avoid overspending.
Dressing for Your Body and Identity
All bodies and identities deserve to feel comfortable and confident in their workwear. The Instacart shopper demographic is diverse, with a wide range in age, size, gender identity, and physical ability. An outfit that works for one shopper may not work for another.
If you have a larger body, look for brands that carry extended sizes and cuts that flatter your shape. Stick to stretchy, breathable fabrics that won‘t constrict or chafe. Don‘t be afraid to take up space and wear clothing that makes you feel good.
For shoppers who use mobility aids or have physical disabilities, prioritize comfort and functionality. Adaptive clothing with features like magnetic closures or side-zippers may be a game-changer. Shoes with good support and cushioning are essential.
Nonbinary or gender-nonconforming shoppers may prefer clothing that is androgynous or gender-neutral. Look for items like button-downs, uncurved jeans, or boxy t-shirts. Remember, you don‘t have to conform to traditional gender norms with your workwear.
The most important thing is to choose clothing that is safe, practical, and authentic to your needs and style. Wear what makes you feel most at ease and capable in your body. When you‘re comfortable and confident, it shows in your attitude and performance.
Tips for Maintaining Your Instacart Wardrobe
Once you‘ve invested in some go-to Instacart shopping outfits, it‘s important to take care of them. Proper maintenance will help your clothes last longer, saving you money and reducing waste. Here are some tips:
- Wash your clothes after each shift, especially if you were in contact with food
- Follow the care instructions on the garment tags to avoid shrinking or damaging fabric
- Air dry delicate items like wool socks or cashmere sweaters
- Spot-clean stains as soon as possible with a stain remover pen or spray
- Inspect clothes for holes, loose threads, or worn-out elastic and repair or replace as needed
- Keep a stain removal kit in your car for on-the-go emergencies
- Rotate shoes and insoles to extend their lifespan and prevent odor
By taking care of your clothes, you‘ll always have a clean, fresh outfit ready to go for your next shift.
Consequences of Inadequate Attire
While Instacart‘s dress code is relatively relaxed, there are still potential consequences for wearing inappropriate or unprofessional attire. For example:
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Customers may leave negative reviews or ratings if they perceive you as sloppy or unhygienic. This can impact your ability to get future orders and earn tips.
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Store employees may be less likely to assist you or take you seriously if you‘re not dressed appropriately. They may even ask you to leave the premises.
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You could be at greater risk of injury or accident if you‘re wearing unsafe shoes or clothing that restricts your movement.
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Instacart may terminate your contract if you repeatedly violate their guidelines or receive customer complaints related to your appearance.
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You may feel less focused, productive, and engaged in your work if you‘re not dressed comfortably or professionally.
While these consequences may seem harsh, they underscore the importance of taking Instacart‘s dress code seriously. By putting in a little extra effort with your appearance, you can avoid potential issues and set yourself up for success.
Final Thoughts
Dressing for success as an Instacart shopper is all about finding practical, comfortable, and tidy clothing that allows you to do your job effectively. While there‘s no formal uniform, there are best practices to follow in terms of safety, hygiene, and professionalism.
Aim for clothes that are breathable, stretchy, and easy to move in. Choose closed-toe, non-slip shoes for safety. Consider wearing Instacart-branded gear or a lanyard with your shopper ID for clarity. Keep a few backup outfits on hand and do laundry regularly.
Remember, your clothing choices can impact your confidence, performance, and customer interactions. By dressing professionally and taking care of your appearance, you‘ll project competence and dedication.
Use Instacart‘s flexible dress code policy to your advantage by building a work wardrobe that fits your budget, body, and style preferences. Wear what makes you feel comfortable and confident. Mix and match versatile pieces to save money.
If ever in doubt, refer back to Instacart‘s general guidelines and use your best judgment. Following the company‘s policies and recommendations will help you avoid issues and excel in your role.
With these tips and outfit ideas in mind, you‘re well on your way to rocking the Instacart shopper dress code. Get dressed, grab your grocery bags, and get out there! Your customers are waiting.
