I am based in the UK, and I work for Starbucks. Back in February, my manager went to Milan and saw the workers in Starbucks there wearing white formal shirts. She was inspired by this and told my store that we have to start wearing white shirts from now on. Most of my co-workers followed this, but some didn't, but covered it up with the company fleece jacket. I didn't wear it, and continued wearing my normal clothes, which followed the company lookbook.
She told my supervisors to remind me that we were to wear white shirts, but I never did because 1. I don't have any white shirts and 2. The lookbook hasn't changed about white now being the only colour we are allowed to wear.
Fast forward to the present, she spoke to me in person on Tuesday, asking if I had noticed the other partners in white. I said yes, though I thought it was optional. She said it's compulsory, and is uniform now and that other stores will also be doing the same thing. She did say that I can wear a white top if a white shirt is uncomfortable, or a jumper, so long as it's white. I said okay. Wednesday I was busy moving things as I'm moving out now, and when I came in today wearing my same clothes from Tuesday, I was given a partner note from my supervisor, who was instructed to from the manager.
It reads as 'Regarding Dress Code Violation'.
'Dear Partner, this is a recorded conversation regarding dress code violation. On 25th of April our store manager had a conversation with you regarding our dress code. Every partner supposed to come work with plain white shirt on top and look formal and representable throughout the shift. This is not only to represent yourself but also represents you as a team player. It is mandatory to follow proper dress code, also having the same conversation multiple times does not make you a responsible partner.
Hopefully this conversation will help you to sort out this situation and we do not have to repeat the conversation again in the future.'
The dress code has not been updated, and it hasn't been formalised or written anywhere that we can only wear a white top. She even sent me the lookbook, which was the same version from last year – no mention of only white shirts. As far as I know, I am the only person to have received a file note about this, though I know other partners have not been wearing white shirts. What can I do about this. I'm really scared of getting fired or getting ridiculous hours as I'm just about to move out of a toxic household, and I've already signed the lease and started paying rent. So I really cannot afford to lose my job. Any advice on what to do here?
Edit: I forgot to mention, that when I signed the partner file note, I told him that I'm still not gonna have a White shirt for my next shift, as I don't have any, and would need to buy some – but I'm incredibly busy and stressed with leaving home. Do he texted the manager that I don't have any at the moment, and she said that she'll buy me a top. I don't know if it's just a plain white top, or shirt or company top.