What to Wear to Court

One question I hear a lot from clients is simple: what should I wear to court? The goal is to dress in a way that shows respect for the court and the judge. You don’t need a brand-new wardrobe or an expensive suit, but you should aim for something conservative and professional. Business casual is usually a safe choice—think a collared shirt and slacks, a blouse and pants, or what many people would call “church clothes.”

It’s also important to avoid anything that could distract from your case. Bright colors, flashy outfits, revealing clothing, or anything overly casual can send the wrong message. Courts are formal environments, and judges notice how people present themselves. You should also avoid hats (unless they’re worn for religious reasons) and clothing with inappropriate language, symbols, or graphics.

At the same time, comfort matters. You don’t need to buy something new just for court—wear something clean, neat, and comfortable that makes you feel confident. Regional expectations can vary as well. For example, in some parts of the country people may expect more formal attire like pantyhose, but in places like Seattle that’s generally not the norm. When in doubt, the safest approach is to keep things simple, conservative, and respectful.