Some Thoughts on Dressing Professionally
The legal profession, unlike the medical profession, is not characterized by a particular uniform, but certain modes of dress are considered appropriate for the professional and others are not. A professional image is important not only for others, but also for you. The way you look sends a message to clients, attorneys and you. Any sort of uniform helps you make the transition from normal life to work life. A business suit or comparable dress enhances your own perception of yourself as a professional.
The general rule is that you want to be noticed for the quality of your work rather than because of the high quality of the work you do and for what you add to the legal team, not for what you wear. Keep the following in mind:
- A professional appearance is neither “hot” nor “cool.” You may be fortunate enough to meet your soul-mate or your next date at work, but avoid dressing as though you are looking for them.
- Professional dress is not short, tight, clinging or revealing. Professional dress looks good, not sexy (although looking good can be sexy if you have the right attitude.)
- Professional dress, except for shoes, belt and coats, is not leather.
- Professional dress is not flashy.
- Dress appropriately for the circumstances. Office wear and court wear may or may not be the same depending on your office. Take the time to find out. Take cues from how your attorney and other professionals in the office dress. If you are in Montana, cowboy boots may be fine; probably not in Baltimore.
- Wash and iron your clothes. Shine your shoes.
- Coordinate your clothing, jewelry and shoes.
- You are part of the legal team and part of gaining the client’s business, trust and confidence. You are not likely to do that if you dress inappropriately or look like a slob.
- When in doubt, ask.
Tags: dress, image, self esteem, uniform
[...] the only other post here using the term “sexy” is one that advises against dressing sexy on the job I suppose the [...]