Some industries have strict dress codes. Adhering to a dress code is usually essential, especially in professions that have to give a serious impression. For a well-groomed appearance and a confident appearance, clothing plays an important role. Although there are new clothing introduced in the market, such as the techwear pants, legal professionals such as attorneys or notaries would need to reserve this clothing for their personal use. These professionals offer high-quality services and therefore, an everyday outfit is not appropriate for this professional group. The clothing of the employees is also important for the image of a company. Particularly in large law firms, certain dress codes are therefore often mandatory.
Which suits and shirts are suitable for lawyers?
In some law firms, dark suits are mandatory for that first good impression. Sometimes, however, lighter shades such as beige or brown are also allowed. When choosing a suit, the fit is also important. Make sure the suit fits perfectly. Clothes that are too big or too small don’t make a good impression. The length of the trousers is also important: they must cover the socks even when you are sitting down. In addition, the suit should be of high quality for the law firm or court. If you like to wear a patterned suit in the office, you can use pinstripes.
With dark suits, in particular, a simple, light shirt creates a contrast, for example in light blue or white. A shirt with a subtle pattern is also possible. However, this should be combined with a solid color suit. Make sure that your shirt is of convincing quality and the right size.
Shirts with short sleeves are considered inappropriate in the dress code for lawyers. Wearing a long-sleeved shirt is therefore the order of the day even on hot days. The same applies to trousers: short trousers have no place in the office. You should also avoid fabrics that are too light or wrinkled.
Dress code for lawyers – belts, shoes, and accessories
In the dress code for lawyers, wearing a belt is essential. Make sure that it matches the shoes. Ideally, opt for elegant leather shoes that are of course polished. The socks should be black. They also have to cover the leg while sitting.
A lawyer’s tie should also exude seriousness. For example, blue or red is possible colors. It is not advisable to use extravagant patterns or garish tones. The tie must be made of silk and extend to the belt buckle.
The dress code for lawyers leaves little scope for fashionable experiments, depending on the size of the firm and the client. If you still want a bit of variety, you can use accessories such as cufflinks or a pocket square.
Jewelry should only be used discreetly. If you have to adhere to a dress code for lawyers, it is best to wear an elegant wristwatch. With a leather bracelet, you are in the right place when it comes to fashion. In addition, do not wear too many pieces of jewelry at once, only wear a maximum of one ring with the watch. Otherwise, it will quickly appear overloaded.
What else to watch out for
If you are still unsure about the applicable dress code at your new workplace, you can use your colleagues as a guide. When in doubt, dress a bit too chic. To be underdressed is more negative than the reverse because as a lawyer you can hardly be too formal.
In some companies, the rules for appropriate clothing are a little more relaxed on certain days without customer contact or on Casual Friday. However, an everyday look such as jeans or a T-shirt is not desirable. For example, it would be better to wear trousers with a jacket. However, you can do without a tie.
Clean and undamaged clothing should go without saying. A splash of sauce at lunch or the spilled coffee – mishaps quickly create ugly stains on clothing. Even on hot or stressful days can sweat stains occur. Therefore, it makes sense to keep spare clothes in the office so as not to embarrass yourself at the next important appointment. Crumpled clothing is also inappropriate in the industry.
