Beyond Looks: Can Bartenders Have Piercings?

Whether you’re an experienced bartender who’s looking to change bars or a beginner who’s trying to break into the industry but is unsure if piercings will hold you back, you’re in the right place.

In the past, there may have been strict rules around the dress code of bartenders, but as time has gone on and new trends have emerged, things have changed within the industry.

Bartenders are now known for self-expression and creativity, with many establishments having relaxed dress codes and rules around what bartenders can and can’t wear.

This brings up an interesting question that we’re going to discuss in-depth today; Can bartenders have piercings?

So if you’ve ever been curious about piercings in the bartending industry, keep reading as we deep dive into the topic.

Can Bartenders Have Piercings?

Yes, bartenders can have piercings. Most bars and establishments have no issues with bartenders having piercings, but it will depend on the bar’s dress code policies which will vary.

The bartending industry is one that supports and allows for self-expression, and many people choose to express themselves through body piercings which is why they are accepted.

That said, the type of piercing you have and the establishment you work in will ultimately determine whether or not you’re allowed a piercing at work.

There’s a difference between a small nose stud or earring and having multiple face piercings that may cause safety concerns to the bartender’s health.

Working behind a bar can be very physical work, and having too many piercings may cause the piercing to tear or rip and the bar could be liable for this.

Therefore, to protect the establishment from being sued and the bartender being injured, management may ask for some piercings to be covered up or removed while at work.

However, the vast majority of people that have lip, nose, and ear piercings, will not have a problem with having them at work, but as mentioned this may vary depending on the establishment and its policies.

>> Read more: Can bartenders have long nails?

Can Bartenders Wear Jewelry?

Similar to piercings, whether bartenders can wear jewelry will depend on the establishment they work in, but for the most part, jewelry is fine for bartenders to wear at work.

Bracelets, necklaces, rings, and other forms of jewelry are not an issue in the bartending industry, but you may want to think twice before wearing them at work.

It’s so easy to lose jewelry while working as a bartender, over the years I’ve lost and broken countless pieces of jewelry that I wish I had left at home.

Whilst jewelry is generally allowed as a bartender, expensive jewelry can become lost or damaged easily so it may be best to leave it at home.

Can Bartenders Wear Earrings?

Yes, bartenders can wear earrings. In almost all bars, earrings will be allowed, but large hoops could be hazardous, and more flashy earrings may be prohibited, so it’s best to check with the bar’s policies beforehand.

Some employers do have rules around how bartenders present themselves, especially in high-end cocktail bars and luxury resorts.

These establishments may have more strict dress codes, so keep this in mind before applying to these types of bartending roles.

Again, think twice about wearing expensive or sentimental earrings as they can easily fall out while working a bar and you may end up losing them.

There’s nothing worse than getting home after a long shift only to find that you’ve lost or broken a piece of jewelry.

Gutting.

>> Read more: Can bartenders have beards?

Are Piercings Considered Unprofessional In Bartending?

In the bartending world, piercings are not considered unprofessional as it’s a form of self-expression that is common within the industry.

Many bartenders express themselves in a number of ways, from painting their nails, having long bears, and being covered in tattoos.

However, in other industries such as law, finance, and health, having excessive piercings could be viewed as unprofessional and a more traditional appearance may be preferred.

This is why bartending is an AMAZING industry, it’s one that allows and promotes individuality and supports you in being exactly who you want to be.

Even bar managers and owners often have multiple tattoos and piercings, but as mentioned above, it’s going to depend on the type of establishment you work in and the aesthetic they have.

Most bartending roles have no issues with piercings and it’s not viewed as unprofessional, but others may ask you to cover up or remove your piercings.

More On Piercings In Bartending

Bartenders are generally allowed to have piercings, and some places even prefer if their staff are a little bit edgy and express themselves with body art.

If you are considering getting a piercing or applying for bartending roles, it’s a good idea to check the policies beforehand to ensure you know what you’re signing up for.

Having a chat with management to get a better understanding of the dress code is a good idea, but also be mindful of the type and location of the bar.

Ear lobe, lip, and nose piercings may be more accepted than facial or body piercings, but even if you do have those they could easily be removed before your shift starts.

Use your judgment when it comes to applying to bartending roles, you can usually get a feel for the type of bar it is and its approach to dress codes by seeing and chatting with other bartenders who work there.

>> Read more: Can bartenders have tattoos?

Wrapping Up

To sum up, yes, bartenders can have piercings. But there may be some exceptions and ultimately it’s going to come down to the type of piercings you have and the bar you work in.

Some bars are stricter than others when it comes to body modifications, so it’s always best to check before you apply for the job or get the piercing.

Finding a workplace that allows you to express yourself how you want will be key, but it’s also important to maintain a presentable appearance at the same time.

Check with management beforehand and you should have no issues with your piercings.

Catch you in the next one!