Lifestyle: Styling success

Kate Starkey on dressing for success in a law firm environment.

Being respectful of your environment, while retaining a sense of personal style, can be hard for women working in the legal profession. But it is still possible to add individuality and a signature look to the confines of the dress code. Kim Hollis (KH), a Queen’s Counsel (QC) at London chambers 25 Bedford Row, and Jane Keir (JK), a senior partner and head of family law at London firm, Kingsley Napley, offer their tips on dressing for success.

Why is your court attire so important?
KH: “Two reasons: respect and practicality. It is vital to show respect for the court and the position one holds in representing the defendant. Court is a solemn occasion – if attending a sentencing of life imprisonment, for example, then that situation requires appropriate levity. In practical terms, clothing has to work specifically with our gowns and offer no distractions. There really is nothing more formal than black. I once bought a very smart navy suit, but the moment I walked into court, I felt extremely self conscious. Against my black gown, there was an obvious colour difference and psychologically, it was a distraction. I never wore it again.”

How do you like to present yourself for clients and colleagues?
JK: “First impressions are really important – you need to show that you mean business. I think clients are likely to make the link that someone who takes the time to look smart is likely to adopt the same sort of approach when looking after the details on their case. It is my duty as a lawyer to respect the client – it is not about me. In light of that, it would be obviously disrespectful to wear skirts that are too short or tops that are too low.”

Are there consequences to wearing the wrong thing?
KH: “A more senior barrister may discreetly comment to a junior that she is inappropriately dressed. The senior female members of the Bar tend to mentor younger members in this respect in order to help them feel more confident and comfortable in court which they will, if they feel that they are properly dressed.”

Can you express your individuality in a court environment?
KH: “Barristers and QCs are, by the very nature of their job, extrovert characters and generally like to present their personality in a strong way. With the obvious constraints in attire, one is always looking at unique ways to be individual but conform at the same time – it is an interesting dynamic.”
JK: “Solicitors aren’t so much in the spotlight when in court, so I think we can get away with more. We still have to be smartly dressed, of course, but I would consider a dash of colour. Certainly, making a statement out of court is fine with fun and beautiful accessories that complement the look.”

Top tips
Finding a form of expression in clothing is certainly difficult in the conservative legal environment. Quality pieces that have a subtle detail won’t overstep the mark, but will help to present you as an individual. Consider the following:

Detailing: Small details make all the difference. Bright linings inside your jacket, or a button hole in contrasting stitching hues, incorporate colour.

Comfort: Individually-tailored pieces mean that you don’t have to worry about ill-fitting suits. Making sure your shirts are properly fitted to stop any inadvertent ‘untucking’, means you can keep your mind on the job. Thicker suit fabrics will crease less throughout the day. Man-made fibres are best avoided if you get hot – they won’t let your body breathe.

Presentation: Fussy fashion and baggy suits do nothing to promote yourself as a sharp and credible worker. Regularly casting a critical eye over your working wardrobe will show up any wear and tear and items needing a revamp. Keeping suits in good shape is as important as keeping your shoes clean, so have them professionally pressed and steamed about once a month. Repair any missing buttons or hems with a reputable seamstress immediately.

Planning: The secret of speed dressing is absolute organisation. By keeping your business attire separate from casual wear, you will never have to ‘rummage’. Do the same with shoes and accessories – hang necklaces or scarves under your suit, so you can quickly select one that you know goes with that particular outfit.

Dressing to impress in the corporate arena is about practicality, with feminine individuality thrown in. You have full control over how people perceive you as a professional. Knowing what works for you will give you confidence to present in any situation.

Kate Starkey is founder of London-based tailors Kate Starkey Couture (www.katestarkeycouture.com). Call 020 7100 1330 for more details.