Have you ever stood in front of your closet, staring at a sea of suits, and wondered if you could mix and match? I know I have! Figuring out what to wear to court can be surprisingly tricky, especially when you want to strike the right balance between professional and approachable. I've spent a lot of time observing and experimenting with courtroom attire, and I'm here to share my insights on the often-debated topic of suit separates.
Early in my career, I was preparing for a series of hearings in a more rural setting. I noticed something interesting: the local attorneys weren't always in matching suits. Many opted for a sports jacket with different colored pants. It gave them a more relaxed, less "big city" vibe. This got me thinking about the unspoken rules of courtroom dress and how they vary depending on the context.
I've also learned that the formality of the court setting plays a huge role. For municipal court appearances, where I was simply requesting a recommendation, separates felt completely appropriate. Similarly, for status conferences or non-adversarial hearings, I found that a blazer and dress pants were perfectly acceptable. However, for more formal occasions, such as hearings or bench trials, I always opted for a full suit, especially on the first day and for closing arguments.
Another thing I've noticed is that court staff often pay attention to attire. I've heard from court operators that they can often tell how frequently someone is in court based on their appearance. The better dressed you are, the less frequent your appearances might seem. I suspect judges pick up on these cues as well. It's not about being flashy, but about showing respect for the court and the proceedings.
So, how do you navigate the world of suit separates in court? Here's what I've learned:
Speaking of blazers, I recently discovered a fantastic piece from Gracequeens that I think is perfect for certain court appearances. It's the KPYTOMOA Women 2022 Double Breasted Tweed Check Blazer Coat. The vintage, long-sleeve design with frayed tassel details gives it a chic and polished look. I've worn it with dark dress pants and a simple blouse for a few status conferences, and I felt confident and appropriately dressed. It's a great way to add some personality while still maintaining professionalism. You can find it at Gracequeens if you're interested in checking it out.
I've found that a sports coat with dress pants or even chinos can look even better than poorly matched suit separates. This combination achieves a similar effect – signaling that you're comfortable and confident – without looking sloppy. I've even worn this look for almost anything (except maybe trial) in the state court I frequent.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind when choosing your courtroom attire: