There are some things you just can’t plan for, and one of those things is jury duty. Of course, with the infrequency of the occasion, getting dressed can oftentimes feel like an afterthought as you tend to your role as a juror. If you’ve been summoned to court, you could justifiably be at a loss for what to wear to jury duty, so we did the research for you.
We enlisted Natalie Navis, a former practicing judicial clerk and now the owner of The Fold in Omaha, Nebraska, for her insight from her time as a lawyer to give you exactly what you need to know when you’re heading to court. Check out her style advice, and then shop some of our favorite courtroom-appropriate pieces.
Navis advises against sequins, loud prints, anything revealing, and open-toed shoes. “This isn’t about you; it’s about the trial. But you can be seriously fashionable when you wear business casual,” she says.
“I feel this is the time for the power blazer,” Navis mentions. She recommends staying away from an oversize, boxy fit, though, and instead opting for a structured, tailored blazer that’ll ensure the courtroom knows you mean business.
When it comes to shirts, Navis says she loves a good blouse with classic details such as pussy-bow necks or tie cuffs. “I instantly get boss-lady vibes from a tie at the neck. Bonus points if it’s tied into a bow.” However, make sure that these tops are in neutral tones and that they’re sleeved. A polished cardigan or sweater also makes a great piece underneath a blazer. As for bottoms, Navis explains that you can never go wrong with a classic pencil skirt. She also is a fan of wide-leg pants and tailored trousers paired with sleek pointy-toe heels or mules. “A wide-leg culotte is safer than a full wide-leg pant, which requires perfect tailoring to make sure [the leg] just hits the ground,” she says.
With these power pieces, you can feel confident sitting among your fellow jurors—and want to wear these everyday pieces afterward, too.
For when you need a bit of color.
These will keep you looking polished.
Show them you mean business.
So luxe.
So chic.
You'll look so professional.
If you don't want to wear wide-leg pants, these make a great alternative.
You'll want to wear this everywhere.
A timeless piece you should always have in your wardrobe.
Just the right amount of detail.
A pop of color never hurt anyone.
Wear this with a pencil skirt and call it a day.
A playful twist to a classic.
Throw this on over any outfit for a perfectly tailored look.
This dress screams professionalism. This post was originally published on an earlier date and has since been updated by Lauren Eggertsen.