Hooters backtracks on 'crotch string' uniform policy: 'Committed to empowering'

Hooters has responded to the backlash around their new uniforms after some employees took to TikTok to slam the 'crotch-string' design.

A series of videos showed waitresses holding up the itsy bitsy new 'shorts', which are completely cut out at the back.

According to The New York Post, a Hooters policy notice read: “Starting Oct. 4, all Hooters girls should wear the new shorts when working once they arrive to stores.

“The old shorts should not be worn.”

The Post claims the notice said if the women weren’t comfortable wearing the new uniform they may be transferred to a” non-image based position” or were free to resign.

Now, Hooters has responded to the backlash, saying the waitresses have the option to choose from the new uniform or the traditional one.

"Hooters of America, franchisor and operator of Hooters restaurants, appreciates the feedback, both positive and negative, regarding a more accommodating and inclusive image policy on tattoos, jewelry, nails, hairstyles as well as new uniform options – to include new top styles, shorts and the addition of socks," a statement provided to Yahoo Lifestyle from Hooters said.

"As we continue to listen and update the image of the Hooters Girls, we are clarifying that they have the option to choose from traditional uniforms or the new ones. They can determine which style of shorts best fits their body style and personal image.

The statement went on to say that Hooters is "excited to see a national trend toward self-expression and inclusivity that bodes well for our marketplace. We work continuously with our Hooters Girls to refresh and update the image of our brand ambassadors and to empower them to feel their best while at work.

"In fact, new uniform styles were the result of a collaboration with Hooters Girls and have been worn for months in several Texas markets with overwhelmingly positive feedback. Our Hooters Girls are providing input at every stage including future clothing items and accessories.

"We remain our most valuable asset, the Hooters Girls, and working together to provide the best Hooters experience for our guests and employees."

It comes after a Hooters waitress took to TikTok to call out the restaurant chain’s new uniform, saying they aren’t what she agreed to wear when she was hired.

Kirsten Songer, who posts to the @theflathootersgirl TikTok account tried on the new black bikini-cut shorts on her account over a pair of grey leggings.

“I can’t even hide the front of my leggings and oh look, a wedgie,” she said, turning around to show the camera the back of the shorts.

“There is no longer anything covered by the shorts and this is what the problem with the new shorts is.

"This is why all the Hooters girls are upset. This is not what I agreed to wear a year ago when I was hired."

Kristen’s followers were shocked by the uniform, with one person commenting: “Those are underpants. I love a cheeky short but they are not cheeky. They’re full moon.”

“My thongs have more leg coverage than those,” another person commented.

“I’m so confused, where is the short? That’s not shorts,” another person said.

Kristen isn’t the one Hooters waitress to come out against the shorts, with many TikTokers who work at the chain posting videos of the uniform.

Hooters waitress Giselle Nguyen uploaded a video alongside the caption: “What’s that supposed to fit?”.

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