The legal profession has, in recent years, gone through kaleidoscopic transitions in a bid to promote itself as a modern, eco-friendly, ‘human’ and, lately, fashionable industry.

Law firms are increasingly trying to shake of their priggish, corporate image and, in light of this, are banning the pinstripes and briefcases in favour of man-bags and winklepickers. And style it seems, in a bid to be ‘down with the kids’, is everything. One law firm (no names mentioned!) has gone as far as routinely hiring image-consultants as to ensure a homogenous 'approachable look’ amongst its employees.

Whether it be for the genuine love of fashion or a brazen attempt to attract new business and fresh-faced, style-conscious employees, firms are making sure they cut a fine figure on the fickle employment catwalk. It’s official…Law is in fashion. Which is just as well, as most of those practising won’t get out of bed without charging at least £500 per hour.  And if, while reading this, you are worried that your garments are about put you out of a job, fear not- just reach for your nearest Magic Circle Firms’ coffee table glossy brochures for the latest image tips. 

Nicholas Geller, design director at men’s fashion label William & George, is regularly invited into Law Firms to give style and image advice to its employees. He tells Law and More about the backstage glitz and glamour the legal industry.

You are a style consultant that works with a number of law firms? Is there a certain ‘look’ that law firms want to promote amongst their lawyers?

I think any ‘look’ has to mirror the client base and their expectations, and each law firm will be unique. Of course corporate law firms will prefer an appearance that is contemporary yet sober. Navy two button single breasted suits and a club tie for example. But if you want to stand out from the crowd it’s worth considering the little details. Wear a tie that reflects the colour of the suit. And don’t be afraid to stray from the standard black sock. Reflect your personality in your choice of tie, but stay away from anything ‘novelty’.

Do you think, in light of the wave of transitions in the legal profession-namely ensuring legal professionals are regarded as  more ‘human’ and ‘approachable’-that apparel is becoming increasingly important?

It’s well known how important first impressions are, and appearing approachable helps to quickly establish trust. It’s important to be relevant to your client base. The classic “Wimpole of the Bailey” look with broad pinstripes might be what some people expect, but it’s not necessarily what they will best respond to.

 Is apparel becoming increasligly important? Definitely! An approachable look is a lot easier when you get the clothes right. A smart-casual facade with a touch of style gives a friendly appearance, whilst still keeping a professional undertone. Sizes are also a key issue; you would be amazed at the amount of people who come into our shop asking for a size that clearly doesn’t fit. After we have corrected this, the difference between the two is staggering. A well fitted shirt makes a Lawyer appear more relaxed and confident.
 
How did you get into the industry?
 
We studied fashion design and were senior menswear designers for several years, producing designs for the likes of Next, River Island, Marks and Spencer and Balmain. But it’s certainly better to design something that reflects your own style than one that fits narrow parameters. We were both frustrated with the limitations on creativity and decided to do something about it. So we started William & George and haven’t looked back.
 
What are the most frequent requests and queries you get from legal professionals when it comes to physical appearance and style?

People often don’t know their neck size. And I think some men are anxious not to appear interested in their appearance. But I think everyone likes to look good! The secret is to consider the outfit as a whole. So we will help customers to pick a tie that goes well with a certain type of shirt, or perhaps pick out the accent of a coloured pinstripe. Sometimes people just want reassurance of their own tastes.

Again the idea of an approachable, yet professional look comes up a lot. We are now used to this and can suggest great shirts and ties that compliment the person and company. Another frequent request is for in-office sales. These have become very popular recently as most Lawyers are far to busy to go shopping. The format is quick, easy and hassle free, but we still have time to tailor a style to fit the individual. 
 
 
 

William & George

 10 Kingly Street

W1B 5PW

What’s in for 2008?
 
Single cuffed, high collar fitted shirts with a striped or simple patterned tie. If you can match these with a two button single breasted navy or light grey suit with double back vents you have a perfect image for 2008.  
 
What’s out?

Three button suits. Double breasted suits, and broad pinstripes. And I think double cuff shirts with cufflinks are on their way out.  A suit should be simple without any other pattern than a very fine pin stripe. 

Have you got any quick style tips that can be applied to the daily routine?
 
Coordinate and accessorize.  It may sound a bit effeminate, but it will make a massive difference to your overall look.  Wear a tie that picks up highlight colours in your suit and compliments your shirt. For the more adventurous,  a pocket square will help lift a sober suit.
 
Which age group, in general, do you find are most interested in the services you provide?
 
It’s the 21-35 year old men that want to stand out from the men that look like they’re wearing their fathers’ suit.  I’ve seen young guys wearing an old city collar shirt, a weedy looking tie and an old grey suit that doesn’t fit them. They look almost apologetic. I like to think our customers look fairly dynamic and confident. What you wear influences how you see yourself, and it’ll be reflected in your posture and mannerisms.

Younger men are, inevitably, trying to stand out and climb the corporate ladder. However, that’s not to say the established older professional can’t get a great look.
 
With summer fast approaching, what should the fashion conscious lawyer be buying?
 
Lighter coloured suits with Airtex shirts.  Airtex is a 100% cotton shirt that, thanks to its construction, gives you great ventilation. 
 
What’s been one of your most memorable experiences and bizzarest requests?
 
We once made a bespoke shirt for a guy with a large 17” neck and a tiny 36” chest.  I think he may have been a super-fly-weight boxer! It was most definitely a challenge!
 
 Finally, which law firm is, attire-wise, trendiest and which use your service?

I don’t think that’s a question I should answer! I guess firms with media clients will try harder to be trendy. Law firms based in the West End and the City are often popping in to our Kingly Street shop, and we’re always happy to visit the offices of law firms.
 

For more information on William & George visit: www.williamandgeorge.co.uk

 Win!

To be in with a chance to win £100 worth of vouchers at William & George to spend on ties and ready to wear shirts please email vwozniak@lawandmore.co.uk by 15 June 2008 giving your name and contact details.

Vanessa Wozniak