Sainsbury's customer told to 'pull T-shirt down' over her shorts after complaint

24 February 2024 , 12:00

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The PR Manager was left reeling from the request (Image: @laurenoconnorPR /Twitter)

It's not often your wardrobe choices come into question at a supermarket - but that's exactly what happened to one woman.

We've all been guilty of rocking up to the supermarket in sliders and socks, or even keeping on our fluffy pyjamas while we peruse the chocolate aisle. But Lauren O'Connor, a PR manager, opted for a stripy T-shirt and pink shorts to keep herself cool during a 32C heatwave.

But when the woman, in her 30s, nipped into her local Sainsbury's store in Staines, her outfit caught the eye of a fellow shopper, who took it upon himself to make a complaint. As a result, a member of staff told O'Connor to 'pull her T-shirt down' - an instruction that left her furious.

Taking to X (formerly known as Twitter) back in August 2020, O'Connor told her followers about the conversation. "I'm so angry right now," she said. "Just been approached by a Sainsbury's staff member in Staines store to 'pull my t shirt down'. An elderly man made comment to staff member who felt compelled to come over and tell me as I was shopping. It's 32 degrees. If I want to wear shorts I will."

O'Connor was left reeling from the interaction (@laurenoconnorPR /Twitter)

O'Connor posted a photo of her outfit, saying all she wanted was to pick up some ice lollies in piece. She added: "I get shamed in store doing so. So disappointed. When are we going to stop telling women how to dress? Especially when topless men frequent supermarkets, which I highly doubt are told to change."

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Many social media users were horrified that someone had taken time to complain about the outfit and a staff member had followed it up. One said: "That's disgusting. Why do people love giving their unwarranted opinions?". While another jokingly wrote: "'Please tell me you pulled your shirt all the way down from neckline to waist."

The official Sainbsury's account responded to O'Connor's post - saying they were sorry about the experience she had. "Not what we'd expect," they added. "Could you pop us over a DM using the link below with some more info on what happened along with the name or a brief description of the colleague who approached you?" O'Connor replied to this at the time, saying she will oblige.

Liam Gilliver