Choosing the right outfit for court is an important part of making a good impression. If you’ve been accused of criminal wrongdoing, there is much at stake when you arrive for a court appearance. As a result, you’ll want to take care with how you look. Dressing appropriately can impact how you are perceived by the judge and jury for the better.
Your goal should be to look neat, respectful and serious. This means avoiding casual or flashy clothing, even if you are tempted to “make a statement” with how you appear. If you are a man, you’ll want to wear dress pants, a button-down shirt and, if your legal team advises you to, a jacket and tie. If you are a woman, you’ll want to wear a modest dress, skirt or dressy pants paired with a blouse or sweater.
Do not wear jeans, shorts, t-shirts, tank tops, or flip-flops. Clothing that is too tight, short, or revealing is also inappropriate. Avoid anything that has logos, graphics, or offensive language. You want to show that you take the court proceedings seriously, and dressing too casually or provocatively can give the impression that you do not respect the legal process.
Additional considerations
When choosing what to wear, you’ll want to stick to neutral and subdued colors such as black, gray, navy or brown. Bright colors and patterns can be distracting. To that end, you’ll want to keep accessories and jewelry to a minimum. Flashy or excessive jewelry may give the wrong impression. A simple watch and minimal jewelry are usually best. Avoid hats, sunglasses and any headgear unless it is for religious purposes.
You’ll also want to make sure you are well-groomed. Hair should be neat and clean. If you have facial hair, make sure it is trimmed and tidy. Avoid heavy perfumes or colognes, as strong scents can be distracting and may bother those in the courtroom.
Finally, you may be in court for several hours, so choose something that is both appropriate and comfortable. Avoid clothing that is too tight or shoes that are difficult to walk in. If you’re uncomfortable, you may fidget, and that can be distracting, too.