One of the most frequently asked questions from students preparing for summer internships, and graduates heading off to their new careers is, “What do I wear?” More specifically, “What is ‘business casual’ and when do I wear it?”
Yes, it’s true; the very term “business casual” strikes fear in the hearts of men and women alike. Gone are the days when a lawyer’s only question when shopping for a business wardrobe was “black suit or blue suit?” I am convinced men sailed through life with two good suits, a handful of shirts and conservative ties, and a pair of black shoes. Those of you “senior lawyers” reading this article will remember fondly the eighties uniform for woman lawyers consisting of a dark suit, flouffy-neck-bow blouse, “nude” hose, and rounded-toe pumps. While it may sound boring, there was no concern of offending anyone with a fashion faux pas, and it sure was easy to shop!
With the concept of business casual sweeping the legal profession, shopping for a suitable wardrobe is getting more difficult. Not only are there more choices for business formal attire (i.e. suits), you now need to understand and shop for business casual attire. Firms and legal employers across the state are adopting business casual attire on Fridays and many allow business casual during the summer months. Follow the guidelines below and you should be covered.
Business Formal
For men, the tried-and-true black or blue suit, pointed-collar shirt, conservative tie and black dress shoes remains your safest bet. Two things you should note here: button-down collars are not appropriate with suits, and “conservative tie” does not include cartoons, air-brushed landscapes, playboy bunnies, or holiday motifs. Your tie is not a billboard for political statements; trust me you do NOT want to be “that guy who interviewed in a ‘save the seals’ tie.”
For women, you can’t go wrong in a dark suit with mid-calf length skirt, plain shell-type top, hose that actually are nude, and closed-toe pumps. Usually, a pantsuit is fine. Jewelry should be conservative with visible piercings only in your ears (one per ear). I recommend sticking with hair colors found in nature.
Men and women alike should make sure they are well groomed whether they are going to court in a suit or dressing casual for a day of research in the library. We are in a very detail-oriented profession, and your attention to detail should show in your professional appearance. I hope it goes without saying that your hair is clean and combed, nails are trimmed, breath is fresh, shoes are polished, and clothing is ironed. Men, it’s time to lose the “sexy five o’clock shadow” and come to terms with your razor every morning. Women, leave the inch-long, eye-catching nails at the salon and go for a nice French manicure instead.
Business Casual
The most important thing to keep in mind when choosing your business casual attire is to keep the “business” in “business casual.” Too often business casual turns into “ballpark casual,” “night-on-the-town casual,” or just plain “too casual.” If you’re not sure whether a particular outfit is too casual, you should probably go back to the closet. Do you want to be the associate everyone wants to take to the ballpark or the one they want to introduce to clients and take to court? You can be both, just make sure you are dressed for the latter.
For men, the business casual “uniform” consists of khakis and a button-down shirt. Many men are wearing golf shirts to work these days; however, I recommend doing so only after you see a significant number of more senior attorneys doing the same. That is generally a good rule to keep in mind: observe and follow the lead of more senior attorneys in your office. That does not mean you should wear jeans if one partner shows up in jeans occasionally or even frequently. Always remember that more senior attorneys became senior attorneys because they didn’t mess up as junior attorneys. They have earned the right to wear what they want. I would rather you dress conservatively everyday at the office than be free to wear shorts in my office when you’re looking for your next job.
Should you wear an undershirt? If your peers can see your chest hair or sweaty underarms without one, then “Yes, you should wear an undershirt.” Men still need to wear dress shoes (and socks!) with their business casual wear. Sneakers and sport-sandals are never appropriate in a law office unless you are moving your furniture into your new partner-size office.
For women, your safest bet is nice slacks or a skirt, a twin-set or blouse, and closed-toe shoes that don’t flap when you walk. I hate to cop-out, but it’s almost easier to describe what “business casual” is not: skirts shorter than brushing your knee, capri pants, sleeveless or tank tops, sundresses, anything showing your midriff, sandals. Women should also beware of clothing that is too tight or shows any cleavage. Of course, the rule above regarding senior attorneys applies to women, too. This is especially the case with hose. Let’s face it: Kansas is hot, and hose are unbearable in the summer. If the senior women attorneys in your office leave the hose at home, by all means follow their lead.
Social Outings
Often, there are more eyes on you in social situations than at the office so be sure to dress appropriately and give your colleagues confidence that you are a professional in any situation. If you’re not sure what to wear to the office golf outing, call the golf course and ask what the majority of people wear (golf hint: men and women are always safe in a polo-style shirt and khakis). If you are not sure what to wear to the office holiday party and the invitation does not specify, ask a more senior attorney what is appropriate. And guys, do your spouse a favor and ask a female attorney in your office what dress is appropriate. No one will be happy if your wife arrives in a sequined cocktail dress and the senior women attorneys are wearing holiday-motif sweaters.