Attorneys can dress stylishly to create an eye-catching first impression. However, they should add color subtly and limit accessories.
Lawyers should wear tailored suits or blazers in classic colors. In addition, crisp ironed dress shirts with light hues should also be worn and shoes with reasonable heel heights should also be worn.
Suit
Attorney wardrobes vary considerably, and it is crucial for attorneys to have at least one classic suit or blazer suitable for court appearances, client meetings and other professional events. A dark suit featuring solid color or grey striping exudes professionalism while being adaptable enough for all situations.
Attorneys should opt for classic white or light blue shirts with matching ties in classic patterns and colors, preferably featuring reasonable heel height. When it comes to shoes, lawyers should match their suit color while maintaining reasonable heel height.
Grooming is also an integral aspect of lawyerly appearances. Proper haircare includes keeping locks neatly trimmed and well-groomed with makeup sparingly applied if at all. Facial hair should also be carefully maintained – any longer than three weeks’ growth should be cut back into submission, while beards should remain neat and tucked under collar.
Shirt
Lawyers need to strike a balance between professionalism and comfort when selecting their wardrobe, taking into account client expectations, practice area expectations, firm culture needs and individual branding. While court trials require strict suit-and-tie adherence, office meetings and business engagements provide more flexible clothing options; this shift toward less formal attorney attire has been attributed to multiple factors including shifting societal norms as well as an increase in focus on personal brand development.
Articling students should keep several suits in their closets and pair them with various shirts and ties to present a polished yet flexible appearance. While this requires more planning than simply selecting whatever is in their closets at random, this strategy can ensure they’re always prepared for whatever comes their way.
Tie
Lawyers need to consider their audience when choosing a tie. From criminal clients or potential investors to CEOs, attorneys must project an image of trust and stability. One way of accomplishing this is by dressing slightly better than their audience and wearing solid color ties; sky-blue silk fine-weave grenadine ties are perfect in sending this message; just ensure they end just above the belt buckle for maximum impact.
While suits and dress shirts do not allow much flexibility in terms of patterns or colors, necktie accessories provide male attorneys with an opportunity to express themselves without looking flashy. A wide purple dotted tie pairs nicely with classic suit colors like navy, charcoal and mid greys while adding subtle flair.
Shoes
As an attorney, looking your best is key in court and meetings with clients. Attorneys are expected to present themselves professionally at all times and the appropriate shoes can help in this respect; dark in color with quality materials like leather would help create this impression.
Men should opt for oxford or monk style shoes, while women should choose closed-toe heels or flats with appropriate heel height. Sneakers or other footwear that may appear unprofessional should be avoided in courtroom settings.
Attorneys should focus on selecting appropriate footwear styles as well as keeping their hair and facial hair neat and tidy in professional settings, to portray an image of understated professionalism that leaves a positive first impression.