Dressing for Court: A Practical Guide for Nigerian Lawyers
Wig, gown, bib and the suit underneath. What to buy, how it should fit, and how to keep it looking new.
Court dress is a uniform, and uniforms reward precision. Here is how to get it right.
The suit underneath
Black or charcoal, plain. A dark suit under the gown reads clean; anything with a sheen or a pattern fights the fabric. Trousers should break lightly on the shoe so nothing bunches when you stand to address the court.
The gown
Fit at the shoulder first. The yoke should sit flat, with no pull across the back when your arms come forward to hold a file. Length should finish just below the knee. Wool blends hang better and crease less than cheap polyester, and they survive Nigerian heat with far more dignity.
The wig
Buy the size, not the look. A wig that shifts when you turn your head is a size too large. Keep it in its tin, away from damp, and never brush the curls out; a soft shake settles them back.
Bib and collar
Two bibs, minimum. One is always in the wash. Starch lightly so the fall keeps its shape without going stiff enough to chafe.
The small things
Plain metal or dark stone cufflinks. A quiet watch. Black lace-up shoes, polished, no brogueing on the toe cap if you can help it.
Care
Hang the gown the moment you get home; folded gowns keep their creases for weeks. Air the wig. Rotate the bibs. Court dress that is looked after lasts a career.
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