The attire of an international lawyer is crucial when it comes to business etiquette, particularly in China where business practices and cultural norms hold significant importance. In this regard, the colours that are worn by a lawyer play a significant role.
Colours convey different meanings according to the occasion, they express cultural values, traditions, and emotions. They can be powerful and determine the success of a meeting by transmitting the right set of moods and feelings, but, at the same time, if wrongly chosen, colours can give offence and cause misunderstandings, determining the failure of a business negotiation or deal.
Black is a staple colour in the legal profession, often worn by lawyers in courtrooms and other formal settings. It is associated with power, authority, and professionalism, making it a popular colour choice for legal professionals; for example, black suits, black dresses for women, and black accessories such as belts and shoes are often worn by lawyers to convey a sense of seriousness and respect for the legal process.
Another staple colour for a lawyer is blue, or dark navy, which is particularly suitable when meeting diplomats or attending international conferences. This colour is associated with qualities such as loyalty, trust, and intelligence, which are highly valued in diplomatic circles.
Blue is not only a safe colour choice but also a popular one for international lawyers who work and travel to countries with diverse traditions and customs mainly because of its universality and lack of negative connotations, which make it a reliable and appropriate colour for cross-cultural interactions.
Grey is a neutral and professional colour that is often recommended for lawyers as it conveys a sense of sophistication and authority without being too bold or attention-grabbing. Grey is also a versatile colour that can be paired with a variety of other colours, making it a practical choice for a lawyer’s wardrobe. Additionally, darker shades of grey can give off a more serious and formal vibe, while lighter shades can be more approachable and friendly.
Brown is a versatile and sophisticated colour and is indicated mainly for accessories and not for clothes. An example is a brown leather bag, which can be the lawyer’s best friend as in it are stored important documents, a laptop, pens, and other essential items needed for the workday.
A brown leather bag is a stylish and practical choice, as it complements a wide range of outfits and conveys a sense of warmth and reliability.
A very meaningful colour is red, which expresses power, particularly in China. Red or dark red is particularly appropriate for a tie, especially when meeting government or functionaries from the Chinese Communist Party, since it shows respect for their authority and adherence to protocol, red being the national colour and the official colour of the Party. On the other hand, a red suit or a red shirt are not the most appropriate choice for a lawyer, as they may come across as too bold or attention grabbing.
White is a classic and timeless colour choice for business attire, as it signifies cleanliness, purity, and simplicity. For example, a white shirt is a classic and safe choice for a lawyer, however, in China, this colour can convey a negative meaning; white is the colour of mourning. Another colour that a lawyer should avoid is green, mainly because it does not show professionalism but also because, in China for example, it can be associated with infidelity, undermining trust and credibility in business dealings.
In today’s interconnected world, where lawyers often work across cultures and borders, understanding the role of colours in business etiquette is increasingly important. Colour choices can convey subtle messages about respect, authority, and cultural sensitivity. With colours, lawyers can create a professional image that not only reflects their legal expertise but also shows cultural awareness and respect.
DISCLAIMER
This article is intended solely for informational purposes and does not constitute legal advice. Although the information in this article was obtained from reliable official sources, no guarantee is made with regard to its accuracy and completeness. For more information please visit dandreapartners.com or WeChat: dandreapartners
