Dressing the Part: A Guide to Courtroom Attire

So you’ve aced law school, nailed the bar exam, and now you’re ready to conquer the Courtroom. But wait, what on earth do you wear? I remember one of my first business classes at The University of Texas at Austin being told what I needed to wear to an interview (circa 1996). Everything needed to be “muted,” and I could wear skirt suits only because I was a woman.  I remember being offended back then about being told I had to wear suit skirts. Still to this day I refuse to wear skirt suits. 

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As a seasoned legal professional, let me share some style tips that will have you looking the part while you’re busy owning the Courtroom. I have taken a different approach to appropriate Courtroom attire, taking into consideration your authentic self.

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First things first, let’s talk about the golden rule of Courtroom attire—professionalism. The clothes you wear leave an impression on people, and can even impact your case. Think about it, how would you respond if you were buying a car and the salesperson was wearing pajamas? Within seconds you’d probably decide they don’t take their job seriously, and in turn you would likely not take them seriously. 

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There is no way around what your mother likely told you all those years ago: first impressions matter. It doesn’t happen the first time you open your mouth to speak, or the moment you address the jury in your opening statement. The first impression happens the moment a judge or jury lays eyes on you. This is not meant to scare you, in fact this should be encouragement that you can make a great first impression. With the appropriate outfit you are already winning the war in the jury or judges mind. You’re showing professionalism and respect for the Courtroom, and this alone goes a long way. You’ve made an introduction without speaking a word, and it was a good one. 

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Now that we’ve established the why, let’s establish the what. After 22 years of legal service and 5,000+ cases, I can confidently tell you what to wear—and what not to wear—when you go to Court. 

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Call Your Tailor & Suit Up 

Tailoring is your best friend here. Aim for a sleek silhouette, because whether it’s a pantsuit or a skirt suit, a sharp suit is a powermove. Clothes that fit correctly are one thing you should not be worried about when you go to Court. Thank me later, because when you feel good about your appearance, you’re going to exude confidence. Remember you’re not aiming for a night out on the town; you’re aiming to win your case.

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The Power of the Blouse

If you’re facing the lifelong problem of a closet full of clothes and still nothing to wear, then let me introduce you to someone: the blouse. A good blouse will never let you down. It’s professional, it’s feminine, and it says, “I respect the judicial system while also looking good.” If you don’t have a few nice blouses on hand, go shopping for the basics. White, black, navy, and other neutral colors will go with just about any professional pencil skirt or power suit you have in your closet.  

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The Blazer (Your Blouses’ Best Friend)

A blazer will take your blouse from business casual to business professional; and if we learned anything from line one paragraph two, professionalism is the golden rule of Courtroom attire. Now that you have a few nice blouses handy, take them shopping with you and find some blazer’s that pair well. If you happen upon matching slacks or hemline-aware skirts, go ahead and complete your outfit with those. 

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Sleeveless: Leave it at Home

Alright, picture this: you’re gearing up for a day in Court, ready to make a fantastic first impression in a display of legal prowess and excellent professional fashion sense. Now, imagine strutting in with your sleeveless ensemble, biceps on display like you’re about to hit the beach. Yes, the beach. This is not the way you want to appear the first time you step into the Courtroom—or the second, or third. Leave the sleeveless look for the gym, or the beach, and opt for a sleeve-present top. If I haven’t convinced you, then consider the image of you gesturing powerfully as you make a strong statement, all while giving the jury a full view of your armpits. This is not ideal. So, when your outfit’s roll-call is taken, your sleeves should say “here!”

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Beware of Footwear

Save the stilettos for after hours. You’ll thank me when you’re not wobbling your way through cross-examination. Save your energy for thinking on your feet, not thinking about your feet hurting. Opt for a shoe with a sensible heel you feel comfortable walking in—I’m not saying you’re limited to those half-inch heels that only seem to come in varying shades of “earth-tones,” but I would err on the side of caution when it comes to the height of the heel. Please note, under no circumstances are croc heels EVER appropriate. Pro-tip: if you find that your feet bear resemblance to Elle Woods in Legally Blonde, then it’s time to reevaluate.  

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An Ode to Red Lipstick 

I love my red lipstick. I never leave home without it. I can tell you the specific brand, Mac Retro, it stays on forever and doesn’t smudge. Why red? The question for me is really why not red? I love how it makes me feel and the confidence it instills. In front of a new jury I can assure you that on my first day of Courtroom work, I will absolutely wear red lipstick. I want to convey to that jury that I am bold, intelligent and fierce.

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I tell you this not to say that every woman should wear red lipstick. I tell you this because I do it, because it is me. It is what I love. While we have dress codes and attire that we should and shouldn’t wear to Court, it doesn’t mean we have to lose our authentic selves. When it comes to first impressions, your confidence will be seen without having to be heard. Find something that you love, something that makes you feel like the confident, bold, intelligent woman you are. Everyone should have their own “Red Lipstick.”  

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