“During your upcoming day in court, the last thing you want to stress about is what to wear,” says Alex Mario, attorney at Connecticut’s Carter Mario Law Firm. “A few simple fashion tips can ensure that the judge, jurors, and everyone else in the room finds you likable and credible when you walk into the courtroom. The right outfit for this occasion makes a great first impression and then fades into the background. After all, the ultimate goal is for everyone in the room to look past your fashion choice and into your eyes.”
The power of first impressions in the courtroom
The courtroom is not the only place people judge others by their clothes, but the difference is that judges and jurors are tasked to make their best judgments about people every day. Consciously or unconsciously, part of their first impression will be based on a person’s outfit choice.
“Your appearance is the first thing people will use to form an opinion about you,” Mario says. “Once they decide what they think of you, changing that initial opinion is extremely difficult. But the good news is that understanding what to wear to court enables you to influence the perception of judges, jurors, and anyone else in the room.”
Guiding principles for courtroom attire
Regarding courtroom dress, expectations about casual wear should be clear for both men and women. Even though dress, in general, has become increasingly casual in recent years, the courtroom remains a formal setting. This means jeans, t-shirts, tank tops, sneakers, or sandals are not a good idea. When people appear too casual in court, it can come across as not taking the trial seriously.
“The legal environment is fairly formal, and you want your appearance to show that you acknowledge the gravity of the occasion,” says Mario. “Take extra time to ensure your clothing, shoes, and hair are clean and neatly styled.”
Courtroom appearances are not the time to stand out with bold fashion statements, flashy accessories, or revealing clothing. People make the best impression with modest and conservative outfits, and most attorneys recommend their clients wear understated and respectful business attire.
Subdued earth tones and neutral colors such as navy, black, gray, brown, and white typically work best in the courtroom setting because overly bright or neon colors can be distracting. Visible tattoos and unconventional piercings can be controversial, and although societal norms are evolving, covering tattoos and removing facial piercings during a court appearance is advisable.
Additionally, respect for diversity extends to the courtroom, and allowances are made for cultural and religious attire. Wearing a hijab, kippah, turban, or other traditional garment is acceptable in the courtroom.
Specific recommendations that help men make a good impression in court
“Men don’t necessarily need to wear a suit and tie to court but will still want to dress professionally,” Mario notes. “You can choose between a suit, a blazer, a solid-color sweater, or a button-down shirt with slacks. Fit is key, so make sure to wear clothes that are appropriate in size — not ones that are too tight or loose.”
Under their suit coat or blazer, men should wear a clean and ironed dress shirt in classic white or light blue as a safe choice. Since a tie is usually expected when wearing a suit or blazer, the best choice is a tie with a solid color or a simple, understated pattern. Avoid novelty ties with fun graphics and overly bright colors. To complete the ensemble, nice-looking dress shoes like oxfords or loafers in black or brown are a solid choice.
Men should also style their hair to make a good impression but not in a way that draws excess attention. Facial hair should be well-groomed, and haircuts should be neatly styled but not overly trendy.
Tips to help women project professionalism in the courtroom
“For women appearing in court, a modest work dress, a skirt and blouse, or a nice top with slacks are all appropriate options,” says Mario. “Make sure that your skirt or dress is professional in length, typically at or below the knee.”
The best blouses and tops for court are not overly revealing, so women should avoid low necklines, sleeveless tops, and overly tight-fitting garments. Instead, they should select tops with neutral colors and simple patterns.
In terms of footwear, women can’t go wrong with closed-toe shoes with no or moderate heels. Simple flats or low-heeled pumps avoid the appearance of vanity or impracticality.
“Limit your jewelry to simple, understated pieces,” Mario urges. “Avoid flashy or jangly accessories, and apply minimal makeup. We want to keep the focus on the matter at hand rather than on your appearance. When in doubt about what to wear, consult with your attorney. As legal professionals, we understand the norms and expectations of the courtroom and can offer personalized advice to help you present yourself in the best possible light.”
For society at large, dressing appropriately for court represents an act of respect. For individual defendants, it can represent much more. When people in the courtroom are making decisions about a person’s future, the reality of the situation is that their perceptions matter.
“Professional attire demonstrates that you take your case seriously,” Mario concludes. “It shows you care about yourself, believe in your worth, and that you are respectful of yourself and others. Your choice of outfit is about much more than vanity or fashion. It makes an impression on the people who are deciding your case.”
The post What to Wear to Court: A Guide to Dressing for Trial Success appeared first on Women Daily Magazine.
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