The final installment of the ladies' version of What Not to Wear...to Court concerns personal grooming issues, specifically: how to do your hair, what jewelry is appropriate for court, and how to wear your make-up. If you've read the last few posts on this topic, then you won't be surprised by the suggestions you find here.
Before we launch into a discussion on the specifics, let me call your attention back to the goals of dressing appropriately for court. The goals, as listed in our July 22nd post, are:
- To show respect for the court process; and
- To be taken seriously.
With those goals in mind, let's look at our personal grooming recommendations.
How to Wear Your Hair to Court
Your hair should be clean and neat, and appropriately styled for daytime. It should be combed and left natural or pulled back with as few accessories as possible. Updo styles that remind you of the prom are not cool. Take a look at these:
While this woman's tank top and jewelry are entirely inappropriate for court, her hair looks great. It looks clean, neat and natural. So does this woman's:
If you wear your hair pulled back, do it in a simple, neat, and low ponytail. Like this:
NOT like this:
This woman's hair is too messy and juvenile for court. Stay away from any style that is too fussy.
Get the idea? Good. Then let's move on to jewelry.
What Jewelry is Appropriate for Court
Your jewelry should be kept to a minimum. Remember, the goal is to be taken seriously, and you just can't take anyone seriously if she is covered in gawdy, distracting jewels. Here are some examples:
Hillary Duff looks cool for TV or for a day out shopping with friends, but her jewlery is NOT cool for court. Way too much earring, ring and bracelets to be taken seriously by a judge or jury.
And the beautiful Eva Mendes looks great for a classy evening event, but her jewelry is way too flashy for court. I'd also add that her updo is more appropriate for evening, not a day in a courtroom.
Now take a look at these ladies who picked jewelry that is tasteful for court:
She is wearing small earrings and a few bracelets. If she was my client I'd ask her to remove a bracelet or two, but otherwise, her jewelry is great.
This woman is wearing some small hoop earrings and that's it. Perfect.
Finally, let's discuss appropriate ways to wear your make-up for a court appearance.
How to Wear Make-Up for Court
As with jewelry, when putting on your make-up, less is more. Keep your face clean and natural, with just a little neutral color. Deborah Kaplan has it right:
Just a little eye make-up, some natural blush and a natural, light lip color. Beautiful.
Ditto with Sanna Lathan. Her make-up (and her hair) looks gorgeous and perfect for a day in the courthouse.
That's it, ladies! If you have any further questions about how to dress for an upcoming court appearance, feel free to email me at kim@tpflaw.com.
Gentlemen, you are up next. Our next post will focus on what men should wear to court. See you next time.
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