Emily Benschoter, a 29-year-old from Georgia, found herself in a dilemma when her new job demanded that she cover up her beloved pink hair.
After landing a front-of-house position in the hospitality industry without an in-person interview, Emily was informed via messages that her vibrant hair color wouldn’t be acceptable in the workplace.
A Creative Rebellion: The Power of ‘Terrible Wigs’
Instead of conforming to the company’s rigid standards, Emily decided to take a creative stand.
Before & After
She started showing up to work wearing intentionally bad wigs, turning her situation into a humorous form of self-expression.
“The worse the wig, the better,” Emily explained, highlighting how this approach allowed her to keep both her job and her unique style.
The wigs, ranging from outlandish to downright hilarious, have become a conversation starter with customers, many of whom are baffled that her natural pink hair is considered inappropriate.
Emily’s videos showcasing her wig collection on TikTok have gone viral, with viewers rallying behind her in solidarity against restrictive corporate dress codes.
The Bigger Picture: Bias in the Workplace
Emily’s story is more than just a tale of pink hair and wigs; it’s a reflection of a broader issue in the workplace.
Gena Cox, an organizational psychologist, pointed out that companies often cling to outdated notions of what an “ideal employee” looks like, prioritizing superficial appearances over individuality and inclusivity.
This bias is not only dehumanizing but also highlights the ongoing struggle for self-expression in professional environments.
A Symbol of Resistance: Challenging Corporate Norms
While the UK’s Equality Act 2010 doesn’t protect against discrimination based on hair color, Emily’s wig-wearing rebellion has resonated with many who see it as a clever way to challenge corporate norms.
Her experience underscores the importance of allowing employees to express themselves authentically, without being forced to conform to narrow, outdated standards of professionalism.
The Viral Impact: Sparking a Conversation
Emily’s story has sparked widespread discussion online, with many viewers praising her for standing up against what they see as an unnecessary and superficial rule.
“Instant follow because corporate pink hair solidarity!” commented one TikTok user, while others joked that her wigs are far more distracting than her natural pink hair could ever be.
In the end, Emily’s story is a powerful reminder of the importance of self-expression and the lengths to which some will go to preserve it. Her decision to wear “terrible wigs” may be humorous, but it also serves as a pointed critique of the arbitrary restrictions placed on employees’ appearances in the workplace.