How A Stylish Legal Director Dresses For Work
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My personal style is best described as classic with a twist. Over the years, as my career has evolved, so has my style. Moving from private practice to an in-house role allowed me to become more playful with what I wear, while still maintaining that professional edge. Outside of the office, my style isn’t really that different either.
I try to incorporate pieces that work for both the office and my downtime. I’ve found that with a little styling – for example, swapping a blazer and heels for a roll-neck and trainers – I can wear the same pair of trousers to work and at the weekend.
My workwear staples are simple but chic. A midi-dress is my go-to – it’s easy to wear and takes the guesswork out of getting dressed. When I’m in separates, a great pair of trousers with a good blouse always feels pulled together. I love the balance: I’m able to lean into my femininity without compromising on professionalism.
Heels instantly make me feel confident. It’s not about the height – even a small heel can change the vibe of an outfit. Right now, I’m obsessed with burgundy or white knee-high boots. There’s something about the confidence that comes with wearing a great pair of shoes – it’s like a switch that flips as soon as I change from my commuter trainers into my work heels.
Trends aren’t something I follow blindly but I do like to keep things fresh. I focus on investing in pieces that have longevity, mixing them with new items I add over time. I still wear clothes I bought years ago, and they work well with my more recent purchases. It’s not just about the clothes you have but how you wear them.
I’m loving the pussy-bow blouse trend. There’s something timeless yet fresh about them, especially when you style them in different ways. I’m also all about Ferragamo right now. The shoes, bags and trousers – they just understand that modern women aren’t afraid to take up space in their own way.
Bold colours and patterns are something I champion. Early in my career, I stuck to muted tones like black, navy and grey, thinking they made me look more serious. As I’ve progressed, I’ve become more comfortable experimenting with colour and different shapes. It doesn’t diminish my professionalism – if anything, it adds to my confidence.
It’s good to be able to transition a look. Long days that include client meetings and evening events require a wardrobe that’s adaptable. If I’m having a more desk-based day, I’ll dress a little more casually – but always put together, since I’ll still be interacting with colleagues. For external client meetings, I adjust my outfit based on the client’s environment – what I wear to meet with someone in financial services is different from what I’d wear to meet someone in tech.
Accessories can make a work outfit feel more evening appropriate. Cinching a waist with a belt, adding statement earrings or switching to a red lip can change the entire mood. A metallic-edged belt or an interesting bracelet stack can give a look a point of difference. They’re personal, and they make an outfit feel unique.
There’s been a noticeable shift towards people feeling more comfortable in their workwear. Over the years, I’ve seen how the legal profession has changed in terms of style. We’re moving towards a place where personal style is increasingly seen as an asset, not a distraction. As someone in a senior position, I have the chance to be more playful with my outfits, but I’ve found that style can really amplify a person’s capabilities. I’ve never faced pushback for being stylish in the legal profession. Dressing in a way that makes me feel good boosts my confidence, which naturally translates into better performance at work.
The brands I rely on understand what women in a corporate space need and want. Brands like Proenza Schouler, Tibi and Jil Sander always get it right. They have a way of creating pieces that feel both professional and stylish, without being too rigid.
I admire women who are confident and secure in their style. Some of my personal icons include Emma Grede, Tracee Ellis Ross and Solange Knowles. These women take up space in the best way. They wear the clothes; the clothes don’t wear them. They inspire me to apply the same ethos to my own wardrobe, embracing my individuality without chasing trends.
Foundational workwear pieces are fundamental. Recently, I did a wardrobe audit and realised I was missing some of the basics, so I went on a hunt to find the perfect pieces. I love brands like Theory, TOTEME, COS and ME+EM for these pieces. They’re the building blocks of any wardrobe, and I’ve learned that basics are never boring – they’re essential. The item I can’t live without is a merino-wool COS rollneck. I have one in every colour. They work with almost everything and are perfect for layering under blazers or wearing on their own.
My standout workwear piece is a white Roksanda dress. I wore it to a panel interview during a promotion process. I saw it on Jessica Pearson in Suits and immediately added it to my cart. It made me feel so confident and empowered during a pivotal moment in my career.
While I will always be a lawyer first, I love sharing my outfits and style tips. It’s a creative outlet for me, and I hope to inspire other women to embrace their style at work. Lean into what makes you feel good. When you feel confident in your clothes, it shows and people are naturally drawn to that. Style is an extension of who you are, and it’s something that should never hold you back.
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Photography: Victoria Adamson
With thanks to 18 Porchester Gardens
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