The Complete Guide to Men's Legal Accessories
Once a lawyer has mastered the foundational suits and shirts of their wardrobe, true sartorial distinction is found in the details. Accessories are not afterthoughts; they are the punctuation marks of a professional outfit, transforming a simple uniform into a statement of polish, precision, and personal style.
The essential legal accessories for any man include a core group of non-negotiable items—the tie, the timepiece, and the leather belt/suspenders (when not using side tabs)—while further sophistication is achieved by mastering next-level details like the pocket square.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the accessories that complete a lawyer’s professional image. Each element plays a crucial role in the larger ecosystem of professional attire, a subject we cover in our main guide on How To Dress Like A Lawyer.
The Core Four: Non-Negotiable Essentials
These four accessories are fundamental to completing a professional legal look. Mastering them is not optional.
1. The Necktie
The tie is the focal point of a suit. For a lawyer, it should be made of high-quality silk and tied with a neat, appropriately sized knot (a four-in-hand or half-Windsor is perfect). Your core collection should be built on conservative choices.
- Must-Haves: Start with solid ties in rich, sober colors like navy and burgundy. From there, expand to classic, understated patterns such as pin-dots, a quiet stripe, or even a small floral design.
- What to Avoid: Loud colors, novelty patterns, and excessively wide or skinny ties. The tie should project gravitas, not personality.
Click here to view our range of Italian Silk Ties.
2. The Professional Timepiece
A classic, understated wristwatch signals punctuality, professionalism, and an appreciation for quality craftsmanship. It is arguably the only piece of jewelry a male lawyer needs.
- The Standard: A simple, elegant analog watch with a leather strap or a classic metal bracelet is the ideal. The watch face should be clean and uncluttered.
- What to Avoid: Overly large, flashy, or ostentatious watches. Digital or sports watches are inappropriate with a suit and undermine the formality of your attire.
3. The Leather Belt
If you choose dress pants with belt buckles over side tabs, then a belt is essential. A high-quality leather belt serves one primary aesthetic purpose: to create a clean visual line around your waist. The cardinal rule is simple but unbreakable: your leather belt must precisely match the color and finish of your leather shoes. A black belt goes with black shoes; a brown belt with brown shoes. The buckle should be simple and discreet.
4. The Pocket Square
While some see it as optional, the pocket square is the mark of a truly polished professional. It adds a finished touch of color, texture, and sophistication to a suit jacket. A neatly folded pocket square signals that your attention to detail is absolute.
- The Foolproof Choice: A simple white pocket square, made from linen or cotton and folded neatly (a simple "TV fold" with a quarter-inch showing), is the most classic and versatile option. It works with every suit and tie combination.
- The Key Rule: Your pocket square should complement your tie, not match it exactly. It can pick up a secondary color from your tie or shirt, or stand on its own as a simple white accent.
View our selection of Silk Pocket Squares.
The Next Level: Accessories for Added Distinction
Once you have mastered the core four, these next items allow you to elevate your style, comfort, and professional presence even further.
Suspenders (Braces): The Superior Alternative
While belts are standard, suspenders (or "braces") are the sartorial connoisseur's choice for both function and style. Functionally, they hold up your trousers from the shoulders, allowing the trouser legs to drape perfectly straight with an unbroken line. This creates a cleaner, more elegant silhouette than a belt, which cinches fabric at the waist. Aesthetically, they are a timeless, classic detail that projects an established sense of confidence.
Albert Thurston in Collaboration with Oliver Wicks - View our British Handmade Suspenders
Cufflinks: For Elevated Formality
Cufflinks are worn with "French cuff" shirts and are reserved for more formal occasions. For a lawyer, this means they are an excellent choice for court appearances or important formal dinners. Choose simple, elegant designs in classic metals like silver or gold. Understated knots or simple geometric shapes are always a professional choice.
The Overcoat & Scarf: Functional Elegance
In cooler climates, your outerwear is your first impression. A professional overcoat in charcoal, navy, or camel is essential. It can be paired with a high-quality wool or cashmere scarf. A simple, elegant scarf not only provides warmth but also adds a sophisticated finishing touch to your winter wardrobe.
A great fit is a must. Have your overcoats custom tailored by Oliver Wicks.
Summary: Your Accessory System
| Accessory Type | Category | Primary Function |
|---|---|---|
| Tie, Watch, Belt | Core Essential | Forms the basis of a professional look. |
| Pocket Square | Core Essential (for polish) | Signals a high level of attention to detail. |
| Suspenders | Next Level (Alternative) | Offers superior function and an alternative look over a belt. |
| Cufflinks, Scarf | Next Level (Situational) | Used for specific formal occasions or seasons. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should my pocket square perfectly match my tie?
No, this is a common mistake. A pocket square that exactly matches the tie in both color and pattern looks pre-packaged and unsophisticated. Instead, the pocket square should complement the colors in your tie or shirt.
Can I wear a belt and suspenders at the same time?
Absolutely not. Suspenders and belts serve the exact same function (holding up your trousers), and wearing both is a major sartorial error. Trousers designed for suspenders often do not even have belt loops. You must choose one or the other.
Is a tie bar or tie clip appropriate for a lawyer?
Yes, a tie bar is a classic and functional accessory that is perfectly acceptable. It should be placed between the third and fourth buttons of your dress shirt. Opt for a simple, elegant metal clip (like silver) and ensure it is not wider than your tie. Its purpose is to keep your tie neat and in place, which aligns perfectly with a lawyer's need for a tidy appearance.