For court or an official appointment you wear calm, polished clothing. Think of dark trousers or a skirt, a blouse or shirt and possibly a cardigan or blazer. Avoid striking prints, texts and jewellery. A suit is usually not necessary. What matters more is that your clothes fit neatly and suit the official nature of the appointment.
Why clothing counts at official moments
At an official appointment it is mainly about the substance. Polished clothing suits the setting. Anyone who is dressed neatly and modestly is more quickly seen as serious and trustworthy. Above all, choose clothing in which you can sit, stand and move calmly. So keep the outfit simple.
Which situations do we mean?
- A hearing at court, as a party, witness or member of the public.
- An appointment at the notary, for example for the transfer of a house or a will.
- A hearing before an objections committee or authority.
- An appointment at the town hall, a consulate or an embassy.
- An official meeting at a bank or insurer.
For visitors there is usually no strictly prescribed dress code. That is exactly why it is useful to have a few guidelines that are always appropriate.
Six guidelines
- Calm colours: navy, black, anthracite, grey, white and light blue.
- A collar or neat neckline: a blouse, shirt or knitted polo with a collar looks serious.
- Covered shoulders and knees: no sleeveless tops, short skirts or shorts.
- No striking details: leave large logos, texts, busy prints and striking jewellery at home.
- Polished shoes: shined and simple, no sports shoes or flip-flops.
- A good fit: clothing that does not pinch or pull, so you can sit and stand calmly.
For women
A blouse with a distinct collar is a good choice for official appointments. The Seraphine tailored blouse with white collar and cuffs in light blue combines a soft colour with a classic detail: the white collar and cuffs give structure and a serious look, without becoming severe. Combine it with the Arabelli high-waist trousers with pleats in black. The pleats and the high waist form a polished silhouette, and thanks to the stretch you also sit comfortably in them during a long hearing.
Keep jewellery small: a pair of studs in your ears and a watch are enough. Choose pumps with a low heel, loafers or smart flat shoes. A bag in a calm colour in which you can fit documents completes the look. You will find more options in the blouses for Women collection and in Office for Women.
For men
A white shirt with dark trousers is the classic base for any official appointment. The Hamilton shirt with Italian collar in white is 100% cotton and looks fresh and polished, with or without a tie. Underneath, the Frederick trousers with pleats in black suit, which thanks to the brushed lining also stay pleasant in cold waiting rooms and corridors.
If you do not have a blazer, or want something a little less formal, the Maximilian wool cardigan with business cut in beige is a good alternative. The cardigan gives the whole look a finished appearance and keeps you warm. You will find more shirts and office combinations in the shirts for Men collection.
What are you saying with your clothing?
| Choice | What it conveys |
|---|---|
| Dark trousers with a light blouse or shirt | Serious, trustworthy, prepared |
| Cardigan or blazer | Finished, respectful |
| Striking print or logo | Distracting, less serious |
| Sporty clothing | As if the moment is not important |
| Too formal, such as a tuxedo | Dressed up, tense |
Practical tips for the day itself
- Security: at court you usually go through a check. Leave large jewellery, belts with heavy buckles and unnecessary items at home.
- Waiting: allow for waiting time. Choose clothing in which you can sit for a long time without creasing.
- Temperature: buildings can be cold or warm. A cardigan gives flexibility.
- Documents: bring a bag in which papers stay flat and neat.
- Phone: switch it off or to silent before you go in.
As a member of the public or as someone involved
If you go to a public hearing as a member of the public, for example to support a family member, something a little less formal is fine. Smart trousers with a knitted top or polo are enough. If you are a party or witness yourself, or you are at the notary for an important signature, choose the most polished option. A collar, smart shoes or an extra layer can make the outfit a little more formal.
Prepare your outfit the evening before
Preferably lay out your outfit the evening before. Check that your blouse or shirt is ironed, that no buttons are loose and that your shoes are polished. Try the combination on briefly, so you are sure everything fits well when you sit and stand. Also put your documents, ID and any invitation next to your bag. That way you have less to arrange on the day itself. Also allow enough travel time.
Shop the look
Seraphine: tailored blouse with white collar and cuffs, light blue
Arabelli: high-waist trousers with pleats, black
Hamilton: shirt with Italian collar, white
Frederick: trousers with pleats and brushed lining, black
Maximilian: wool cardigan with business cut, beige
Frequently asked questions
Is there a dress code for visitors to the court?
For visitors there is usually no strictly prescribed dress code, but modest and polished clothing is appreciated. Choose calm colours and a neat neckline or collar.
Do I have to wear a suit to the notary?
Not necessarily. Smart trousers with a shirt or blouse, possibly with a cardigan or blazer, are polished enough for most appointments.
Can I wear jeans to an official appointment?
Preferably not if you are involved yourself. Dark trousers are more serious. As a member of the public, dark, polished jeans are usually acceptable.
