First impressions matter in life. Whether you preparing for a job interview or meeting your significant other’s parents for the first time, how you dress is imperative when it comes to making a good one.
This is also true in the courtroom. Not only do judges, prosecutors, and jurors examine your case and available evidence, but also your appearances for any indications of your character. Court is a serious place which mandates professional attire.
What Men Should Wear
Men should wear a fitted suit and tie. The combination of a clean, collared dress shirt that’s white or blue, and khakis or slacks is also an appropriate option.
Dress in dark colors like navy blue or dark grey, but do not wear black. Light colored suits are considered less formal attire.
Men should NOT wear the following clothing items:
- T-shirts
- Tank tops
- Sports attire
- Jeans
- Sneakers
- Work boots
- Sandals
- Hats
What Women Should Wear
Women should dress in a conservative manner. Dresses at or below the knee, pantsuits, professional blouses, and slacks are all recommended. Avoid any clothing that is alluring, too tight, too small, or reveals cleavage, bare shoulders, bareback, or a bare midriff. Ensure jewelry and makeup are modest as well.
Similar to men, women should wear dark colors. Do not wear anything bold or bright, which can be a distraction.
Women should NOT wear the following clothing items to court:
- Anything too dressy or sexy
- Tops with spaghetti straps
- Strapless dress or sundress
- Crop tops
- Exercise attire
- High heels
- Open-toed footwear
Additional Tips
Hygiene is also important too. Men and women should appear clean and use limited cologne or perfume. If you have hair that has been dyed an unnatural color, make sure you revert it back to a more natural tone. Do not go into court smelling like alcohol, cigarettes, or marijuana. If you have tattoos and extensive piercings, hide your tattoos and remove any jewelry before entering the courtroom.
If you have been arrested for a criminal offense in Wisconsin, contact our Milwaukee criminal defense lawyer at the Law Offices of Christopher J. Cherella today.