Share this article:

The Dorchester hotel faces backlash over 'downright offensive' staff email

The Dorchester hotel faces backlash over 'downright offensive' staff email

Bosses at London’s Dorchester hotel have reportedly instigated some complaints from staff, after sending a memo of what is expected of female employees – The Telegraph reports.

The list, which was supposedly emailed to staff at the hotel, contained a list of do’s and don’ts for female workers, including shaving their legs and not sporting oily skin.

The Daily Mail reports that the email was sent in reaction to customer complaints on the general hygiene of its staff.

The email explained that “body odour is not tolerated”, nor is “bad breath” – that female employees should arrive at work in full make-up, use deodorant and have regular manicures. They should never wear garish make-up, have chipped nails or have a bad odour.

Continue reading for FREE!

Sign up for a myGrapevine account to get:

  • Unlimited access to News content
  • The latest Features, Columns & Opinions
  • A full range of specialist HR newsletters to choose from

Welcome Back

Sign up for myGrapevine

* By creating an account you agree that you have read and agree to our Terms and Conditions and that Executive Grapevine International Ltd and its partners may contact you regarding relevant content and products. You will also be added to the HR Grapevine newsletter mailing list.

Sign up to our daily newsletter

Have content like this delivered directly to your inbox.


Recommended

HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Podcast
  • 2 mins read

Podcast | Cross-functional complexity - how can employers operationalise better L&D?

HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • News
  • 5 mins read

Remote working | WFH employee wins disability discrimination case after 'camera on' instruction

HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Feature
  • 6 mins read

‘Be inspired’ | How HSBC is 'paving the way' with epilepsy training for staff

HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Webinar

Proven programmes: How top UK employers are using CSR to drive employee engagement

HR Grapevine
HR Grapevine | Executive Grapevine International Ltd
  • Resource
  • Download Guide

The 2026 Benefits Refresh: How to reduce hidden workforce health costs