Rachel Zane is the star paralegal from the mega-famous series Suits, played by Meghan Markle. She works for Hardman-Pearson, later Specter Litt, and is the daughter of Robert Zane. Her everyday work includes dealing with one of the top US lawyers, Harvey Specter, and his handsome and extremely bright junior colleague Mike Ross, who later becomes her husband. What a life for Rachel!
Rachel Zane is known for her killer outfits. Her signature style; a pencil skirt, combined with a blouse, a buttoned-up shirt, or a cardigan, makes us want to work in an office every day just so we can wear her outfits on a daily basis. Even Meghan Markle has sourced some fashion inspiration for her Duchess' times from her experience as Rachel Zane at Hardman-Pearson!
As you climb the corporate ladder ladies, let yourself be influenced by Rachel Zane's style. It shows the strength and female power in a predominantly male world of Specter Litt or any other organization you may think of and work for. It’s actually easy to copy her business style into your wardrobes, as it mostly consists of various basics and essentials that work together perfectly. As Meghan Markle has proved to us, her pieces are also worthwhile for duchesses and princesses as she used some of Rachel Zane's pieces later on in her life.
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Dress in one colour: Dress head-to-toe in one color - create a Sumissura skirt and design a shirt in the same color. By wearing one color (or variations of the same color) it creates an elegant look. Outfits tune in tune are also very fashionable and timeless. Rachel Zane approved.
- Wear a classic shirt: Wear the classic shirt, but wear it in different ways! Rachel’s tricks to wear this classical shirt differently is to simply pop the collar, roll up the sleeves, and half-tuck in the shirt. Make the elegant piece versatile and business casual by twisting it. This is also one of the favourite pieces of Meghan Markle, as we have seen her wear a shirt so many times over the years. Keep it simple, keep it cool.
Customize yours to look like this the shirt above, or be inspired by our business shirts collection.
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Remember to not shy away from pairing sweaters with skirts: Dress smart and with an elegant business touch by pairing a sweater, rather than a blouse or shirt, with your skirt. Choose a sweater that’s made out of a light material, such as cashmere and merino wool. The elegance and formality of the materials play an important role here. After all, it’s still a business dress code and Rachel Zane always looked extremely professional wearing it in a highly business formal environment. Once again, we could have seen her real life counterpart Meghan Markle wear lightweight sweaters tucked in skirts in her royal days, too.
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Don’t be afraid of prints: Design a printed blouse or shirt to wear with your skirt. Remember to make sure that the color and print size flatter your upper half. It’s also a nice touch if your bottom features one of the colors of the print on top so your outfit looks perfectly matched and polished. Rachel Zane prefers basics and plain fashion, but definitely does not shield away from patterns once upon a while.
To get this modern, business look; simply combine a Sumissura printed blouse with a custom-made, tailored Grey Skirt.
Rachel Zane Shirts
As we mentioned before, Rachel’s wardrobe consits of a few basics that can be paired with each other. She basically follows a capsule wardrobe idea and we know what the basic essential of a business capsule wardrobe is – shirts. These workhorses can be paired with literally everything and Rachel wears them with pencil skirts most of the time. Expand or build your collection with perfectly fitting shirts of neutral colors and ad done or two oversized ones to create a less formal look.
Key Takeaways of Rachel Dress Shirts:
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Capsule Wardrobe Concept: Rachel Zane's style embodies the capsule wardrobe concept, which emphasizes a minimalistic collection of timeless, versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched.
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Essential Basics: Shirts are a staple in Rachel's wardrobe. She often opts for clean, crisp shirts which are easy to pair with various bottom wear.
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Color Palette: Rachel tends to stick to neutral colors for her shirts, like white, black, or shades of blue. This allows for easy pairing with different skirts and suits without clashing.
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Pairing with Pencil Skirts: One of Rachel's signature looks involves pairing a well-fitted shirt with a pencil skirt. This combination highlights her professionalism and poise, making it a go-to look for her.
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Fitted Cut: Rachel's shirts are usually well-fitted, accentuating her figure. The cut and fit are key to achieving that polished and sleek appearance she is known for.
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Occasional Oversized Shirts: Though Rachel typically wears fitted shirts, she occasionally throws in an oversized shirt for a more relaxed and informal look.
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Quality over Quantity: Rachel’s wardrobe emphasizes quality. The shirts she wears are of high quality, which contributes to the sharp and sophisticated look.
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Accessorizing: While her shirts are often simple, Rachel accessorizes with elegant jewelry or a statement handbag, adding that extra layer of chic to her ensemble.
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Collars and Cuffs: Attention to detail is a hallmark of Rachel's style. She often chooses shirts with interesting collar or cuff details to add an element of interest to an otherwise simple outfit.
In essence, Rachel Zane's shirts are a masterclass in professional dressing, balancing classic cuts with meticulous details. Following her lead by investing in well-fitting, high-quality shirts in neutral tones can provide a versatile foundation for a business wardrobe.
Rachel Zane Skirts
Pencil skirts are a daily companion of Rachel Zane and we understand why. In combination with a shirt and pumps, a pencil skirt looks extremely professional and underlines her curves. Rachel’s collection includes black, dark blue, grey, beige and white skirt, but you may design any color you want to look your best. And we are sure you will, as Mike Ross mentions Rachel's amazing skirts many times in the Suits! So, design your own custom skirt.
Rachel Zane Dresses
Rachel’s dresses follow her signature style and are always very tight and business-like. They always reach the knees or fall just below and mostly come in dark neutral colors. Easy to pair with everything, you just need to add a few accessories and the right pair of comfortable shoes and you are good to go. For sure Rachel knew about Sumissura custom dresses.
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Grey Sheath Dress: Rachel often wore sheath dresses. In one episode, she is seen wearing a classic grey sheath dress that perfectly accentuates her figure. It's knee-length with cap sleeves and has a professional, sleek look. She pairs this with nude pumps and minimal jewelry, ideal for a day at the office.
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Black Pencil Dress with Bow Detail: This dress is a black pencil dress that is tight fitting, knee-length and has an elegant bow detail at the waist. She wears this with black stilettos and silver earrings. This dress is the perfect blend of sophisticated and stylish.
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Navy Blue Peplum Dress: In another scene, Rachel sports a fitted navy blue peplum dress with short sleeves and a round neckline. The peplum detail adds a touch of femininity to the otherwise structured dress. She combines it with classic pumps and a statement necklace.
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White Sheath Dress with Black Belt: One of Rachel's more iconic looks includes a white sheath dress, elegantly cinched at the waist with a black belt. This dress features a square neckline and is knee-length. The monochrome combination is timeless and sophisticated, and she completes the look with black heels.
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Patterned Wrap Dress: Shifting from her usual dark colors, she donned a patterned wrap dress in an episode. The dress has a V-neckline and reaches just below her knees. The patterns are subtle and work-appropriate, and she pairs it with nude heels and a simple bracelet.
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Maroon Asymmetrical Dress: Rachel showcases her fashion-forward side with this maroon asymmetrical dress. The dress features a unique neckline and a single sleeve, with a straight fit that hits below the knees. This stylish piece is paired with ankle strap heels and dainty jewelry.
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Burgundy Tweed Dress: Rachel wears a classy burgundy tweed dress with short sleeves and a fitted silhouette. The textured fabric adds depth to the dress, and she complements it with black pumps and a delicate gold necklace.
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Olive Green Sheath Dress: Perfect for the autumn season, Rachel donned an olive green sheath dress with three-quarter sleeves and a boat neckline. This dress was cinched at the waist and fell just below the knees, and she paired it with black pumps and stud earrings.
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Pinstriped Shirt Dress: Combining business with style, Rachel wears a pinstriped shirt dress with a tie waist. This dress has a collared neckline, buttons down the front, and cuffed sleeves. She wears it with nude heels and a simple pendant necklace.
Rachel Zane Outerwear
As the series mostly follows the corporate life of Rachel, the scenes are usually filmed inside and we don’t get to see much of Rachel’s outerwear wardrobe. Fortunately, the real fans can spot a short scene of Rachel wearing a beige trenchcoat or a white double-breasted long wool coat on a winter scene. Staple pieces for every wardrobe! They are really stylish with jeans, too.
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Beige Trench Coat: On one occasion, Rachel is seen in a classic beige trench coat. This piece is a wardrobe staple because of its versatility and timeless elegance. It can be paired with both formal and casual outfits, making it a go-to piece for any wardrobe.
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White Double-Breasted Wool Coat: During winter scenes, Rachel is seen in a white double-breasted long wool coat. This coat is both stylish and functional, providing warmth while maintaining a chic appearance. It also signifies luxury and poise.
- Short Peacoat: In some scenes, Rachel sports a short peacoat, which is a stylish option for the cooler months. It’s a more casual option compared to the long coats and blazers, and is great for a more relaxed, yet sophisticated look.
Rachel Zane's outerwear choices reflect the same level of sophistication and polish as her business attire. Whether she's in a classic trench coat or a sharp blazer, her outerwear is consistently stylish and well-tailored, contributing to her iconic fashion status on the show.
How to dress like Rachel Zane from Suits?
Ever dreamt of replicating Rachel Zane's impeccable style from the hit series "Suits"? You're not alone. Rachel's signature style, a mix of confidence and sophistication, has left a lasting impact on fans. She’s known for her sharp, fitted suits, often in neutral tones, but with a surprising pop of bold color. Achieve this coveted look with a well-crafted, made-to-measure suit. For an unexpected twist, consider floral suits, embodying delicate femininity in the power-dressing world, much like Rachel's innovative fashion statements on the show.
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Invest in Tailored Pieces: One of the secrets to Rachel Zane's style is the perfect fit. Invest in tailored pieces that hug your curves just right. A fitted sheath dress or a pencil skirt with a tailored blouse can be your go-to outfit. Did you know that Rachel was a Sumissura customer? Well, you know, ok, she WOULD be.
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Neutral Colors with a Pop: Stick to neutral colors like black, white, grey, and navy for the main pieces. However, add a pop of color through a statement piece, like a bold-colored handbag or shoes, to make the outfit stand out, just like Rachel does.
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Classic Accessories: Rachel’s accessories are always classic and timeless. Opt for simple pearl earrings, a delicate necklace, or a classic watch. Avoid anything too flashy; let the simplicity make the statement.
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Upgrade with a Belt: Cinch your waist with a stylish belt to elevate your look. Rachel often uses belts to add a touch of elegance and form to her dresses and skirts. Choose belts that complement your outfit and don't overpower it.
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Power in Heels: Heels are a staple in Rachel Zane's wardrobe. They not only add height but also exude confidence. Invest in a pair of comfortable, classic pumps in black or nude which can be paired with almost any outfit.
What is the name of Rachel Zane on Suits?
In the spellbinding legal drama "Suits", the role of the intelligent and stylish Rachel Zane is masterfully portrayed by the charismatic Meghan Markle. Rachel's character, embodying intellect and exquisite fashion, serves as an empowering figure for many women charting their own course in the corporate world. Her commanding presence and polished ensembles have etched a permanent impression on the hearts of viewers worldwide.
How old is Rachel in Suits?
The age of Rachel Zane, the trend-setting paralegal turned lawyer in "Suits", is a point of intrigue for many. Although her exact age isn't spelled out, Rachel's growth from a driven paralegal to a respected associate hints at a character in her late twenties or early thirties. Her journey, both professionally and personally, offers relatable experiences for viewers around this age bracket.
But cmon, let's guess
Based on the timeline of the show, "Suits" premiered in 2011 and Rachel Zane, played by Meghan Markle, was introduced as a paralegal working at Pearson Hardman. Considering that one generally becomes a paralegal after completing a bachelor's degree, which would make her at least in her early to mid-twenties at the start of the show. As the series progresses, Rachel eventually attends law school and becomes an attorney, which usually takes about three years.
By piecing together this information and the duration of the show, which ended in 2019, it's likely that Rachel Zane's character started off in her mid-twenties and by the end of the series was in her early thirties.
- Start of the Series (Season 1 in 2011): Mid-twenties, possibly 24-26 years old.
- End of the Series (Season 9 in 2019): Early thirties, possibly 32-34 years old.
It's important to note that these are estimations based on the progression of her career and the usual timeline for someone in the legal profession. The show does not provide explicit details on her age.
How many seasons is Rachel Zane in Suits?
Rachel Zane, the epitome of grace and wit, is a core character for seven captivating seasons of "Suits". Meghan Markle's portrayal of Rachel added depth to the series, her character seeing significant development through the seasons. In a beautiful culmination of her story, she leaves the show in the Season 7 finale, marrying her on-screen love interest Mike Ross, making for a memorable exit.
How much does Rachel Zane make in Suits?
As a paralegal in a top New York law firm, Rachel would have made a good salary, and upon becoming an attorney, her earnings would have significantly increased. Additionally, the prestige of the law firm Pearson Specter Litt indicates that the salaries there would be on the higher end of the spectrum.
Let's make an assumption based on average salaries in the legal profession in New York City during the timeline of "Suits" (2011-2019), keeping in mind that Rachel was at an elite law firm, so her salary could be higher than the average.
| Season | Year | Position | Estimated Salary |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2011 | Paralegal | $60,000 |
| 2 | 2012 | Paralegal | $62,000 |
| 3 | 2013 | Paralegal | $65,000 |
| 4 | 2014 | Law Student | $67,000 |
| 5 | 2015 | Law Student | $70,000 |
| 6 | 2016 | Attorney | $160,000 |
| 7 | 2017 | Attorney | $165,000 |
| 8 | 2018 | Attorney | $170,000 |
| 9 | 2019 | Attorney | $175,000 |
This table assumes that Rachel got incremental raises as a paralegal, and then a significant jump when she became an attorney. Additionally, as an attorney, she could have also received bonuses which are not accounted for in this table.
However, this is speculative and based on average salaries in the legal profession during that time period. Also, it's important to note that Rachel's character lived a somewhat luxurious lifestyle, donning designer dresses and accessories, which might indicate that she could have been earning even more than the estimations above.
How much were Suits actors and fictional characters earning?
| Name of Character | Name of Actor | Actor's Earnings Per Season (Estimate) | Fictional Earnings Per Season (Estimate) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mike Ross | Patrick J. Adams | $50,000 - $60,000 per episode | $250,000 - $300,000 |
| Harvey Specter | Gabriel Macht | $100,000 - $150,000 per episode | $1,000,000 - $2,000,000 |
| Rachel Zane | Meghan Markle | $50,000 per episode (before departure) | $200,000 - $250,000 |
| Donna Paulsen | Sarah Rafferty | $50,000 - $60,000 per episode | $300,000 - $400,000 |
| Louis Litt | Rick Hoffman | $50,000 - $60,000 per episode | $400,000 - $500,000 |
Notes:
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Actor's Earnings: These are rough estimates and may vary depending on the season, negotiations, and other factors.
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Fictional Earnings: These are speculative figures based on the characters' roles and responsibilities within the fictional law firm.
Do you want to know more about how much the actors and characters of Suits were paid? Read our blog post about it.
How long was Rachel Zane on Suits?
Rachel Zane, one of the most compelling characters in "Suits", graced the screen from the show's inception in 2011 until 2018. Meghan Markle's mesmerizing portrayal of Rachel over seven years or seven seasons captivated audiences, who watched her transformation from a tenacious senior paralegal to a respected associate.
Why was Rachel written out of Suits?
The departure of Rachel Zane from "Suits" left fans with bittersweet feelings. Meghan Markle, the actress behind Rachel's character, decided to leave the show around the same time she became engaged to Prince Harry. This monumental shift in Meghan's personal life led to a professional turning point, ending her journey on the show, and offering a charming exit for her character.
How Rachel Zane's Style Evolved Through Seasons in Suits
Rachel Zane's fashion evolution on "Suits" mirrored her character development. Starting with pencil skirts and custom dresses, she transitioned to commanding, tailored suits, a testament to her professional growth. Her ever-evolving style has influenced professional women's fashion and set new trends in corporate attire.
Rachel Zane's Impact on Professional Women's Fashion
With her unflinching style and intellect, Rachel Zane left an indelible mark on the landscape of professional women's fashion. Her smart dressing choices coupled with an undeniable grace presented a fresh perspective on corporate wear and inspired many to step up their style game in the workplace.
The Power of Rachel Zane's Suits
Rachel Zane's wardrobe in "Suits" is a treasure trove of power dressing. From her perfectly tailored tuxedos to her chic blue suits, she flawlessly combined femininity and authority. Uncover the subtleties behind Rachel's choice of attire and its influence on modern-day workwear.
Here are a few iconic suits that Rachel Zane wore in the show that left a lasting impression:
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Charcoal Grey Power Suit: In one of the episodes, Rachel is seen wearing a charcoal grey power suit with a single-breasted blazer and pencil skirt. The simplicity and classic cut of the suit screamed authority and professionalism. This suit exemplified her role as a strong, confident woman in the corporate world.
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Navy Pinstripe Suit: This suit became an instant classic among fans. The navy pinstriped suit with a fitted blazer and matching pants was one of Rachel’s go-to looks. The vertical stripes, notched lapel, and fitted silhouette made this look both slimming and powerful.
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White Tuxedo: Rachel's white tuxedo was a standout piece. The crisp white color, paired with a black lapel, made a bold statement. This ensemble broke away from traditional dark-colored suits and showcased her fashion-forward thinking.
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Black Suit with a Twist: Rachel sported a classic black suit but with a twist. The blazer had a peplum waist, adding a touch of femininity to the otherwise sharp suit. She paired it with a pencil skirt and kept the accessories minimal, allowing the suit to be the star of the show.
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Houndstooth Suit: In one of the seasons, Rachel wore a houndstooth patterned suit that was both elegant and eye-catching. The classic pattern, combined with a modern cut, made this suit an unforgettable piece in her wardrobe.
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Plum Suit with High-waisted Pants: This suit was unique because of its rich plum color. The high-waisted pants elongated her figure, and the monochrome look was sleek and stylish. The suit displayed a perfect blend of sophistication and fashion.
Rachel Zane's suits in "Suits" showcased her as a fashion icon in the legal profession. She managed to convey authority while staying true to her personal style. Her wardrobe choices are an inspiration for women seeking to make a powerful statement through their work attire, blending classic cuts with modern touches. Through the subtle nuances in her ensembles, Rachel Zane has cemented her place as a trendsetter in corporate fashion.
Rachel Zane's Iconic Fashion Moments in Suits
Rachel Zane, with her avant-garde fashion choices, had several iconic moments in "Suits". Her stunning wedding suit was a head-turner, just like her everyday corporate outfits. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit these fashion-forward moments that set the bar high for professional attire.
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Rachel's First Appearance: When Rachel Zane first appeared on screen in a fitted pencil dress, it was clear that she was going to be a fashion icon on the show. Her polished and professional look set the tone for her character.
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The Black and White Interview Dress: In the pilot episode, Rachel wears a black dress with a white collar and cuffs for an interview with Mike. This outfit was a perfect combination of professional and chic, and it stood out as an iconic moment.
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The Tom Ford Tuxedo: In Season 2, Rachel donned a Tom Ford Tuxedo that was sharp, sleek, and oozed confidence. This androgynous look was a departure from her usual feminine attire and showed her versatility in fashion.
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The White Peplum Dress: In Season 3, she wore a white peplum dress when she got accepted into Columbia Law School. This dress, coupled with her bright smile, was a memorable moment for her character.
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The Blue Pencil Skirt Suit: Rachel’s blue pencil skirt suit in Season 4 was impeccable. The bright color, coupled with the perfect fit, made this an iconic suit moment.
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Rachel's Wedding Dress: In Season 7, during her wedding to Mike, Rachel wore a stunning wedding dress that left everyone in awe. The dress was a classic, elegant, and timeless piece.
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Her Final Scene's Suit: In Rachel's final episode, she wore a chic grey suit. This outfit signified her character’s evolution from a paralegal to an attorney and was a fitting farewell look.
Top Moment for Rachel Zane in Each Season:
| Season | Year | Top Fashion Moment |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 2011 | The Black and White Interview Dress |
| 2 | 2012 | The Tom Ford Tuxedo |
| 3 | 2013 | The White Peplum Dress |
| 4 | 2014 | The Blue Pencil Skirt Suit |
| 5 | 2015 | The Houndstooth Suit |
| 6 | 2016 | The Plum Suit with High-waisted Pants |
| 7 | 2017 | Rachel's Wedding Dress |
Rachel Zane: Inspiring Women in the Corporate World
In the corporate world, Rachel Zane's character in "Suits" became a beacon of inspiration. Her journey from a hardworking paralegal to a successful lawyer, all while maintaining her unique style, is a testament to her determination and individuality. Discover how she's influenced a generation of women to chase their dreams without compromising their personal style.
Now you're a pro on everything there's to know about Rachel Zane! Interested in learning more about courtroom-appropriate attire? Then you might like our blog post What to Wear to Court: Outfits for Women.
