ATTIRE FOR NETWORKING
Any event where you are likely to meet attorneys, whether it may be a networking event or a CLE or a
holiday party, requires you to dress for success and look the part of a lawyer. How you think of yourself
and your level of professionalism is communicated in a number of ways, including the clothing that you
wear. You should always dress in a way that projects to the world that you are professional and serious.
Please note: students sometimes acquire a misperception of how they should dress when they see
attorneys dressing semi-informally at networking events. Do not (mistakenly) assume that because an
attorney is dressed casually, you have a license to do the same. For students, dressing too informally for
any event should be avoided as it can only hurt your chances for success. You want to stand out to a
potential employer because of your credentials and your personality, not because of the inappropriate
clothing you wore to one event. Although the business world has, in many ways, become more informal,
the legal profession has remained conservative. Even when an invitation states the dress is business
casual, ignore it and dress professionally. Accordingly, as a rule of thumb, professional attire is the only
appropriate attire at all events where you will meet attorneys.
Check out the following pages regarding appropriate dress and examples of what you should and should
not wear.
WHAT TO WEAR
MEN: Wear a collared shirt (avoid bright colors) and a suit. Keep the suit colors
dark (black, grey, navy blue). Wear a tie and keep it simple (no fun and/or crazy
designs). Avoid “high water” pants (if you socks are showing when you stand, the
pants are too short), visit a good tailor if you need guidance
about appropriate pant length. Make sure your shirt is
tucked and your clothing has been ironed. If you have any
earrings, piercings, etc., take them out. Tattoos should be
covered as well. Facial hair is a toss-up, some say it is fine
as long as it is kempt and under control, while others say
no way. Neither denim, chinos, polo shirts, nor hats are
ever acceptable.
For examples of proper professional attire, check out
some ideas on CSO’s Pinterest Page.
WOMEN: Wear a suit with a reasonable length skirt or pants. Pair this with a dress shirt with a round or
collared neckline. Dress suits are also acceptable with an
appropriate skirt length. Skirts should never be more than two
inches above the knee. If dressing for an interview, wear nude
pantyhose. Wear shoes with no more than a 1 ½” to 2” heel.
Avoid short skirts, low-cut shirts, camisoles, super high heels,
boots, tights or pantyhose with designs or textures, dangling
jewelry and nose rings and other piercings. If you wear any
nail polish, ensure that your nails look neat and preferably are
a neutral shade. Tattoos should be covered.
Need more examples? Check out some ideas at CSO’s
Pinterest Page.
As always, if you have a question regarding whether something
is appropriate to wear or where to find good and reasonably
priced networking attire, please contact CSO. We are happy to
help.