What to wear for jury service

Image courtesy of Mango

You might have been selected at random, but that doesn’t mean the same for your outfits – decode the dress code with these insider tips and shopping links

Lottie Franklin

20 October 2022

Eliza, help! I’ve been called up for jury service next month and have no idea what I’m meant to wear. Please can you give me some fashion tips?
Becky, East London

Now, I realise it’s not your outfits on trial here. There are no fashion crimes for your choice of jury service outfits.

But when it comes to deciding what to wear on a daily basis, I like to know I’ve got the dress code right. Could I be accused of overthinking and liking a plan of action? Yes, I’m guilty as charged.

There are three major takeaways for what you want to keep in mind when pulling some clothes together for jury service – comfort, layers, and a business casual vibe.

Read on for more detail and shopping links if you’re stuck…

Comfy, but smart, trousers

Insider tip: Be prepared for lots of waiting around on jury service. It’s not all action, and if you’re sitting down for long periods of time you’ll want to be dressed for comfort. This isn’t the time for loungewear, but loose tailored trousers or smart jeans will fit the bill.

Simple & stress-free tops + shirts

Insider tip: The government website says “there is no strict dress code and you can wear clothes you’re comfortable in, such as jeans and a T-shirt”, so thankfully there’s no need to dress overly formal for jury service. Equally, you don’t want to feel too scruffy, as you’re still in a serious environment.

The safest option is to dress ‘business casual’, keeping your outfits simple but smart. Here’s an edit of my favourite tops and shirts on the high street right now, but if you’re interested in shopping for more understated and versatile work-appropriate basics check out how to build an office capsule wardrobe next.

Do-it-all dresses

Insider tip: If you do make it into the court room and you’re not released from your jury duty, then you’ll be in a room with various people involved in the trial and you’ll be visible. It’s a personal preference, but you might like to wear something simple and discreet, switching out any bright and bold patterns that you might wear for work usually with neutrals like the below that will look smart but will not stand out too much either.

Take an extra layer…

Insider tip: Courts are often in old buildings and so the holding areas where you sit and wait can either be boiling or freezing. Smart layers and knits are crucial – you can whip them on or off depending on the temperature inside.

…or wear a warm blazer

An alternative to taking knitwear would be to wear a warm blazer. I like these ones especially because they’re either made from cosy wool blends or have slouchy enough fits to wrap around you if it gets cold.

Fuss-free footwear

There are no rules for footwear, other than nothing ‘very casual’, so stick to smart trainers, boots or loafers for a comfortable and risk-free choice. The government website also says not to wear anything on your head, unless it is for religious reasons, so keep any hats or headbands at home.