Keep your hats on straight and your ice tucked in if you want to go into certain DeKalb bars.

Several bars, including Starbuster’s, 930 Pappas Drive, and Molly’s Eatery and Drinkery, 1022 W. Lincoln Highway, have implemented dress codes.

It is also rumored that Reilly’s Bar and Eatery, 1215 Blackhawk Road, has plans to implement a dress code, but nothing is posted yet.

At Starbuster’s, bold, black-lettered signs state that baggy clothes and pullover hoodies are strictly prohibited. The signs also state necklaces/chains must be tucked in at all times and hats must be either straight forward or straight backward.

Molly’s posted a much stricter code, barring hoodies, do-rags, hats/caps, all baggy clothes, jerseys, large chains, basketball shorts, sleeveless shirts and warm-up pants.

A warning states: FAILURE TO ADHERE MEANS NON-ADMISSION and DETERMINED BY DOORSTAFF.

Both Starbuster’s and Molly’s refused comment on the subject.

NIU students tend to bristle at mention of the dress codes.

“I think they’re a little ridiculous,” said sophomore chemistry major Amy Dalby. “They’re trying to make it into some elite-type club. I want to be able to wear a hoodie when it’s cold outside.”

Louis Covaliu, a freshman sociology major, thinks the bars are enforcing something they have no reason to.

“It’s a bar. I understand enforcing a dress code at a restaurant or somewhere you’re supposed to be formal,” Covaliu said. “But at a bar, you just want to sit back with your friends and relax sometimes.”

Junior geography major Kevin Cardile said, “It’s really unfair and even maybe prejudiced. Everyone has their own style and these codes are against certain groups of people.”

Some bars with no posted dress code are Lord Stanley’s, 142 E. Lincoln Highway, and Fatty’s Pub and Grille, 1312 W. Lincoln Highway.

Otto’s Niteclub and Underground, 118 E. Lincoln Highway, only asks that patrons keep their clothes on.