Court dress has always been a symbol of the profession - its history, its gravity, and its uniformity. But the Bar is changing. And with that comes a welcome update: one that recognises the need for clarity, consistency, and inclusion in how we present ourselves in court.
The Bar Council’s updated Court Dress Guidance (July 2025), approved by the Lady Chief Justice, is a clear and inclusive overview of what barristers (and student barristers being called to the Bar) are expected to wear across courts and tribunals, and when reasonable adjustments apply.
Here’s what you need to know:
Court Dress vs Business Attire: When to Wear What
- Robed courts: If the judge is robed, you should be too. That means wig, gown, bands or collarette, and wing collar shirt.
- Business attire: In tribunals, magistrates’ courts, and some County Court or Family Court hearings, professional business dress is appropriate.
Business attire is defined as smart, professional office wear - usually a dark suit and formal shirt or top, with flexibility for gender expression and cultural requirements.
If in doubt, check if the judge is robed. And dress as if attending in person, even for hybrid or remote hearings (at least from the waist up anyway...).
Inclusion Built In: Dispensations & Adjustments
For the first time, formal dispensations are now available not only for religious needs but also for:
- Race (e.g. natural hairstyles that make wigs impractical)
- Sex (e.g. pregnancy or menopause)
- Disability (e.g. mobility aids or hearing devices that interfere with court dress)
Some adjustments don’t require formal application - for instance, if you wear a headscarf, kippah, or turban, or have an ethnic hairstyle that makes wigs uncomfortable, you are not required to wear a wig. For Turbans and Headscarves, the current guidnace is that they should be 'dark, dark grey or dark blue, in line with business attire'. We’ve asked for clarification on whether white will be permitted in court. We’re awaiting a response and will update this blog as soon as we have confirmation.
Other adjustments, such as removing wigs or gowns due to menopause, chronic pain, or disability, can be made with a 12-month dispensation certificate issued by the Bar Council. No personal medical details are needed. Just a declaration.
You can find the application page here.
Respecting Each Other’s Choices
The reason for someone’s court dress adjustment is private. If a colleague wears a turban instead of a wig, or opts out of a gown due to health, the new guidance makes it clear: no commentary is required, or appropriate.
Judges are also encouraged to handle any concerns about adjustments discreetly, ensuring dignity and fairness remain paramount.