Can you get fired for wearing company clothing in a TikTok video? It is a question that more and more employees are asking. Time to put this question to Suzanne Meijers, employment law attorney.

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Can you get fired for wearing company clothing?

“You cannot fire someone because they’ve made a TikTok video while wearing company clothing. They should always take the circumstances into consideration. When an employee makes a cheerful video in his spare time while dressed in his work clothes, he or she should not immediately be fired. At least not if there are no other issues with this employee. An employer can always first give a warning.”

When can an employer fire the employee for wearing company clothing?

“When an employee makes videos that show the employer in a negative light, it is of course a different story. The same applies to videos that are made in the workplace itself, especially if the workplace is identifiable. If there is a deliberate insult, or for example, if patients are visible in the video, in such cases instant dismissal is permitted.

But before taking formal disciplinary measures such as a warning or dismissal, it helps if an employer has been clear and laid down the rules. “

Should there be specific rules in the workplace regarding the making of TikTok videos? And where should these be documented?

“Social media use continues to grow, so employers should set clear rules. Include these in the company’s code of conduct, regulations, or protocol. For example, you can state that employees may not publish videos online in which company clothing is visible.

You also need to make sure employees know these rules exist, and ideally make them part of the employment relationship. Make your company’s ‘game’ rules clear. That way, you reduce the risk of problems. If an employee posts a video wearing company clothing, you can refer to these rules and issue a warning.”

In The Netherlands, you cannot simply fire someone. A video of an employee wearing company clothing is usually not a strong enough reason. As an employer, set clear rules before taking action. For employees, I have one piece of advice: do not make videos in company clothing if you want to keep your job. It is not worth the risk. There are plenty of other fun outfits you can use to create a video.

If you are interested in similar cases involving workwear and consequences at work, you might also find these articles interesting:

• 3 people fired for funny work clothes
• Military uniforms on dating apps could threaten national security
• Man fired after refusing to tuck shirt in pants

Greetings,

Aileen

Last update: 10/04/2026