Employer dress code: What are your rights?

Questioner

I work at a supermarket, where we have work clothes. Now we suddenly have to wear different clothes during Christmas/Easter, which we have to return after that period. Not a big deal in itself, but there is nothing available in my size, only a women's shirt that is too small (I am a man). I do not agree with that, I just want to wear my normal work clothes. Moreover, I cannot find any dress codes anywhere, not in the branch, the collective labor agreement, the contract or online. Can my employer require me to wear different clothes temporarily? Thank you in advance.

Lawyer

An employer may make work clothing mandatory. The employer must then provide it. You can then also claim a suitable shirt. The employer must provide this.

Lawyer

According to the Equal Treatment Commission, this is in conflict with the obligation to treat men and women equally. Dress codes and other external requirements are considered employment conditions as intended in the General Equal Treatment Act (Article 5 AWGB). This is a form of direct discrimination that cannot be objectively justified.