Hooters founders are making a major shift to its brand image and bringing back the eatery’s original uniform years after introducing a smaller, snugger fit.

The shift comes after Hooters Inc., led by the brand’s original founders, bought back Hooters of America following a bankruptcy that forced dozens of locations to close.

The founders are calling their turnaround strategy “re-Hooterization.”

Waitstaff will now wear bright orange jogging shorts paired with fitted white T-shirts, the chain’s original uniform design.

Niel Kiefer, a lawyer who has worked with the brand since the early 1990s, told The Wall Street Journal the change means less skin showing.

“I don’t think you’re going to see a bunch of butt cheeks hanging out,” Kiefer said.

The uniform swap is part of a broader overhaul aimed at making the restaurant chain more welcoming.

The company plans to simplify its menu, upgrade ingredients, and emphasize community connections.

“We’re not just acquiring restaurants—we’re taking back the Hooters name to show the world who we really are,” Kiefer said.

“This is about bringing people together, making memories, and ensuring that Hooters remains a place where everyone feels welcome.”

The new ownership has already started remodeling locations and upgrading equipment nationwide.

Hooters Inc. and its partner, Hoot Owl Restaurants LLC, now operate roughly 140 U.S. locations and 60 international restaurants, bringing in close to $700 million in annual sales.

Generative AI was used to draft this story, based on information provided by PennLive. It was reviewed and edited by MassLive.