You only need one crayon to complete the infamous Coloring Book for Lawyers: the grey one. The legal profession is not known for encouraging bold fashion statements — or radical individualism of any kind. But that doesn’t mean that you have to resign yourself to a monochrome future.

Sarah Conlin

Just finished articling
Downtown for a job interview

“How do I stand out without getting into trouble? Accessories, like shoes and scarves, are key. Also, lipstick and nail polish are great ways to add a little colour to an otherwise dreary wardrobe. I always wear dresses or skirts so I feel more feminine; I feel a bit butch in pantsuits.”

Ren Bucholz

Summered at Lenczner Slaght
In third year at Osgoode Hall

“People see a suit as a uniform with interchangeable parts, but it’s not; it’s a chance to stand out, to not give in to the grind. I like double vented jackets: They help a guy without much of an ass because they drape. I’m trying to move my shirts to spread collar, which allows you show off more of your tie.”

Meg Bolohan

First-year associate
Osler

“I like bright cardigans, bright shoes and bright lipstick. The perfect black blazer should be in every wardrobe: It covers up less conservative outfits, and you can take it off if you go out after work. I like to shop in New York City for items I can’t find in Toronto.”

Dheeraj Sindhwani

Articling student
Walter Fox

“Criminal defence lawyers tend to wear thick pinstripes and bright colours. I like a bold tie — bright ties with different designs are key. I’ve got a one-button suit I wear to work sometimes. My shoes have therapeutic soles. I have a pair of D&Gs, but they’re not as comfortable when you’re walking around all day.”

Katherine Pattillo

First-year associate
McLeish Orlando

“It’s about really small things, like wearing a different kind of nylons. I’ll wear fishnets if I’m wearing pants — never with a skirt though. I roll my cuffs on my blazers. And I don’t really wear traditional blouses. I have a lot of loose, billowy blouses and I wear tank tops underneath.”

Paul Saguil

Second-year associate
Stockwoods

“Our firm isn’t a big Bay Street firm; every partner and associate has their own style. I like slim-fitting shirts and pants, and I like bright colours, which look better because of my skin tone. For guys, it’s hard since we are generally more limited in our wardrobe options. The best thing to do is play around with combos of different shirts, ties and pants.”

The secret to standing out while fitting in: find subtle but meaningful ways to make your style reflect your character. And then cover it up with a big, black blazer.