How to prepare for your graduation ceremony

After working hard for three years, the time has finally come to celebrate your academic achievements with your friends and family at your graduation ceremony.

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What Are the Key Differences Between Barrister and Judge Attire?

Court attire has long served as a visual symbol of authority and impartiality in the courtroom.

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Church Apparel: Combining Tradition and Modern Style

For centuries clerical clothing has been a symbol of religious authority as well as a commitment to a life dedicated to the Church.

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Why do barristers in England still wear wigs?

When we think of a barrister, we often think of black robes and white wigs, a uniform that is an iconic symbol of law in the United Kingdom.

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Graduation Gown Trends for 2025: What's In and What's Out

Graduation season is already in full swing! An exciting time to celebrate your achievements and to pick out a graduation outfit.

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What Are the Most Popular Graduation Gift Ideas for 2025?

Graduation season has been in full swing! If someone you know is graduating, you might want to get them a gift to celebrate their milestone.

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Legal Gown Etiquette: What to Wear Under Your Gown

Appearances are incredibly important for lawyers. Dressing appropriately is a key part of court etiquette for lawyers.

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The Essential Guide to Legal Gowns: What Every Lawyer Needs

Legal dress is not only steeped in tradition dating back from the 14th century – it is a symbol of professionalism and impartiality. As a Barrister or solicitor, it is important to dress appropriately, emphasising the seriousness of proceedings. Shop Barrister Attire If you’re practising law in the United Kingdom, here is everything you need to know about the court dress code: What is the history of courtroom wear? We often associate the court dress code with black robes and wigs, however, barristers didn’t start wearing wigs in court until the 17th century. Wigs became popularised during the reign of King Charles II as they were worn as more of a fashion statement. As wearing wigs went out of fashion, wearing them in the court became more a symbol of authority and a mark of their profession. The black robes that we see barristers wear today, date back from the 14th century when lawyers were part of the clergy and often wore clerical robes. Originally, clerical robes were coloured, but after the death of King Charles II, black robes were worn as a sign of mourning. The black robes remain to be worn today and are most commonly worn in criminal courts rather than civil courts. What is formal lawyer attire? Formal lawyer attire usually consists of a dark suit, preferably black, for men and a skirt or trouser suit for women. In some cases, particularly in criminal court, you will also need to wear: A black gown White winged-collar shirt with bands for men Round collared shirt with tab down the front for women A wig (this will depend on the type of court) Black shoes Criminal cases are generally considered more serious, so a more restrained attire would be expected. In civil court, it may not be necessary to wear a gown and wig. When does a gown and wig need to be worn? Traditional courtroom wear of a wig and robe will depend on the type of court hearing you are attending. With a magistrate court, business attire will usually suffice. Legal gowns and wigs are typically required during: Most trials, including crown court In cases of liberty Chancery Division of the High Court Family court Public examinations of bankrupts Call to the bar ceremonies If unsure, you can find advice on the correct legal dress from the Bar Council or the Legal Services Committee. What are the different types of robes? In the UK, the type of robe worn indicates the role and rank in the court. The style of gown, its colour, and the use of a wig all depend on the type of court, the nature of the case, and the wearer’s role within the legal system. Here’s a breakdown: Judges’ court dress code High court judges wear red robes for criminal cases In civil cases, they wear the civil robe, which is partially black with red tabs at the neck of the gown, and usually no wig is worn During ceremonial occasions, a scarlet gown is worn Court of appeal judges wear a black silk gown and a short wig County court judges wear a black gown with a lilac edge and a short wig. When hearing criminal cases, circuit judges wear a red sash over the left shoulder. Barristers and solicitors Wear a plain black gown with an open front, bell sleeves, court bands, collar and wig (in the crown court) Kings Counsel will wear a more elaborate gown made of silk, and they sometimes wear a waistcoat (bar jacket) Solicitors tend to wear business attire in court, but gowns are sometimes worn. Why is formal lawyer attire important? Legal dress is important because it maintains a link to centuries-old tradition. Represents equality and respect for the court Symbol of impartiality Helps distinguish lawyers from the public Emphasises the seriousness of the court of law Represents professionalism Where can I purchase a robe? At Evess, we can help you look the part. We sell Tailor de jure, beautifully crafted courtroom wear and accessories for courts and legal professionals worldwide. If you need help finding your legal attire, don’t hesitate to get in touch with one of our dedicated team. Shop Legal Attire

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Accessorising Legal Attire: The Importance of Tabs, Collars, and Cuffs in Courtroom Dress

Legal attire is made up of a number of accessories in addition to the court gown and wig. These components bring the whole ensemble look of your court dress code together to maximise your authority and professionalism during court hours. We’ve put together a guide below to help you become more familiar with these additional components of courtroom dress, including information on what they are and why they’re important. Shop Legal Accessories What are the Different Accessories of Courtroom Dress? There are a few different courtroom dress accessories you’ll need to know about before you start purchasing all the new legal attire for your new job as a barrister, enabling you to always look your best and adhere to the dress code of court. Court Attire Tabs and Bands Tabs and bands are worn around the neck. They are a little similar to ties though these are made from two strips of starched white cloth that are attached to the collar. They are worn on the outside of both your formal suit and your court gown. Tabs and bands are designed to lie flat against the chest. Ours are made from the finest cotton and come with an elasticated fastening for the perfect fit. Court Attire Collars The collar on a court gown is detachable, allowing you to swap it out for a clean band or a new style if you want to try something different at your next court session. Wing collars are popular choices. They are high, stiff shirt collars that are commonly worn above your barrister bands. Collarettes meanwhile often take on the form of a bib with the collar section on top. It is comprised of a white band with two straight pieces of fabric hanging on the chest. Court Attire Cufflinks For those wearing shirts underneath their courtroom attire, having a smart pair of cufflinks can help to tie the whole outfit together and help you to finish off your professional and dignified look. You can select plain cufflinks that match your shirt or add a little extra flair by selecting custom cufflinks or designs that have significance to the law such as cufflinks decorated with the scales of justice. The History of Courtroom Attire Accessories Traditional courtroom dress as we know it today dates back to the 17th century. Wigs were popularised by Louis XIV with many court officials following the fashion of the monarchy. And with the fashion of wigs and robes, comes the traditions of additional accessories that bring the outfit together and create a complete professional veneer. In the time of Queen Elizabeth I, ruffs were worn in place of bands and tabs. When ruffs fell out of fashion, plain linen bands were worn instead. Though these were originally wide, by the late 17th century, they transformed into modern strips of rectangular linen, tied at the throat. The clerical collar itself has undergone a wide range of historical updates as the years have gone on. The history of the detachable collar in fashion began in 1827 with Hannah Montague, who was allegedly tired of washing her husband’s clothes when only the collar needed cleaning. This fashion eventually made its way to religion and church services with the detachable clerical collar being invented in 1865 by Reverend Donald McLeod, a Presbyterian minister in Glasgow. With the strong historical ties between religion and the law, the detachable white band has also become a staple of courtroom dress. How to Put on Legal Attire Accessories Wearing your courtroom accessories is an important part of helping you to feel confident and professional while wearing your court attire, helping you to look more respectable and authoritative while carrying out your duties. How to Measure for Court Attire Accessories The first step you’ll have to take is to make sure you have the right measurements so that your courtroom attire will fit perfectly, making sure you stay comfortable during long hours on the job. Tabs, bands, and collars will generally require the same measurements around the neck. Wrap a flexible tape measure around the circumference of your neck, removing clothing obstacles so that you’re only measuring on the skin. After measuring, add 1 inch to your measurement to allow some breathing room depending on the make of the band or collar. If you want a more relaxed fit, you can add 2 inches to the measurement. Standard cufflinks meanwhile will generally fit most shirt types while larger cufflinks are designed for wider and thicker fabric. When shopping for cufflinks, make sure you’ve measured the cuff of your shirt sleeve so that you can buy the right size. Unbutton all the buttons on your shirt sleeve and keep the fabric straight and tight. Measure from the furthest edge of the button hole to the centre of the button on the other side. Make sure to keep the tape measure straight for an accurate reading. Putting on Your Courtroom Attire Accessories After you have measured for purchased your court attire accessories to go with your court robe and wig, it will be time to put them on. Wearing the accessories properly will help to accentuate your formal work appearance as well as keep you comfortable so that you don’t feel the need to constantly fidget and readjust your attire. Wearing Your Court Band Place the two bands between the wings of your collar evenly and then cross the strings at the back of the collar and back around underneath the flaps. If the strings are long enough, you will be able to tie them into a bow. Afterward, just tuck them away under the flaps to complete the neat and tidy look. Wearing Your Court Collarette When doing up your court collarette, place the front piece at the back so you can see the back part in the mirror. Do up the velcro, poppers, or other fastenings evenly before turning the collarette around into its right position. Tie up the strings on each side to connect the front and back flaps of the collarette and straighten it out before putting on your court robe and wig. Wearing Your Court Cufflinks Fold back the cuffs evenly and align the cufflink holes and then attach your cufflinks. There are a variety of different styles of cufflinks that will require different methods of attachment. Bullet back cufflinks – twist the bullet back to align with the cufflink hole and after popping the cufflink through, twist the bullet horizontally to the hole to secure. Whale back cufflinks – similar to the bullet back, twist the whale back to slot into the cufflink hole and then twist it horizontally to secure. Fixed back cufflinks – push the back through the two cufflink holes the same way you would a button. Chain link cufflinks – push the back of the cufflink through the top cuff’s holes. Bring the bottom cuff up to meet the top cuff, and push the back of the cufflink through. Reversible cufflinks – These are attached the same way as fixed back cufflinks. The cufflink will be secured like a button. Ball return cufflinks – these are also similar to fixed back cufflinks and can be attached in a similar way. Locking closure cufflinks – Unfold the hinges and put the small back part through the holes on your cuff. Hinge the cufflink after it’s through to lock the cufflink in place. The Importance of Court Attire Accessories Wearing court attire accessories allows you to put the finishing touches on your legal outfit, showcasing your dedication to the law and your faith in upholding justice in a formal and professional manner. Looking after your court attire accessories will enable you to build trust and respect for your skills and expertise, allowing you to inspire confidence and authority and do your best job for your clients. Legal accessories complete the court dress code, bringing each individual item together and enhancing your professionalism and authoritative image. You can buy accessories for your legal wear today from our Tailor de Jure collection of courtroom accessories. Shop Legal Accessories

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Wig Fit and Comfort: How to Ensure Your Barrister Wig Fits Perfectly

A barrister wig is an important part of your court attire, helping you to feel formal and professional so you can attend court in confidence and command respect from the jury, clients and other attendants to trials and hearings. Making sure your barrister wig fits properly is key to making sure you feel comfortable in your barrister dress. Read on for our tips on measurements and fitting to make sure you purchase the barrister wig that is right for you. Shop Legal Wigs How to Measure Your Head For a Barrister Wig Naturally, the most important part of making sure you buy the right barrister wig for your new job is to first measure your head to get the precise measurements. The correct way to measure head size is to wind the tape around the circumference of your forehead. Place the tape measure about half an inch above your eyebrows and make sure you hold it tight for an accurate reading. Measuring your head doesn’t always give the perfect answer however. You may find that the circumference of your head falls between two different barrister wig sizes. If this is the case, we recommend that you always go for the bigger size. With a wig that’s slightly larger, you can always use methods to tighten it later to get the perfect balance of fit and comfort. Don’t forget to take into account the volume and thickness of your hair as this can add to the circumference of your head and affect how well the barrister wig sits If you have thick hair and are measuring for a wig, make sure you have your hair in a low ponytail or a braid, keeping it flat so that the measurement readings are accurate and consistent. Other measurements you’ll require for your wig measurements include: Front of head to nape of neck along your scalp Ear to ear across your forehead Temple to temple around the back of your head Ear to ear over the top of your head The width of your hairline across the nape of your neck How to Put on Your Barrister Wig Knowing how to put your barrister wig on properly is half the challenge of making sure you’ve bought a wig that’s the right size. Whether you wear a wig cap or not underneath your barrister wig is entirely up to you. A wig cap will be able to help protect your wig from the natural oils from your hair and scalp, keeping it in optimum condition for longer. Your head measurements for your barrister wig will also apply to your wig cap. A basic wig cap is incredibly durable, reducing the need to replace it constantly. Make sure to try and find a wig cap that matches your skin tone for a more natural and seamless look. Tip your head forward and position the wig at the nape of your neck and pull it forward over your head. Make sure the edges of the wig cover the wig cap if you’re wearing one and your hair and aligns seamlessly with your hair line. Before putting on your wig, make sure your hair is cleaned and tied back neatly if it is longer. The flatter your hair the better and make sure it’s completely dry as well so the wig has more grip and purchase and won’t slide around so much. To help make sure you can put your wig on comfortably, we stock a wide range of barrister wig sizes in our store so that you can have no trouble finding the right fit for you. These sizes include: 54cm 55cm 56cm 57cm 58cm 59cm 60cm 61vcm 62cm How to Secure Your Barrister Wig You may find yourself wearing your wig for prolonged periods of time so it’s important to make sure it stays secure and doesn’t slip during your time in court. With the proper fitting, you will be able to focus on doing your job to the best of your ability without constantly having to readjust the wig. Barrister wigs often come equipped with a drawstring hidden at the back on the nape of the neck. If you find there’s a little too much room between the wig and your head or you had to opt for a slightly larger size, you can use the drawstrings to find the best fit. You can also use clips and hair grips to secure the wig along the backs and fronts. Natural coloured grips that match your skin tone will help to ensure that the professional look and style of your wig isn’t marred. You should also remember to secure your wig cap if you’ve chosen to wear one. Use the same grips and clips that match your skin tone to avoid it slipping and bunching underneath your wig. How to Know You’ve Put Your Barrister Wig on Properly You’ll know if you’ve put your wig on properly if it feels snug but not too tight around your scalp, hairline and the nape of your neck. It will be normal for the wig to get more uncomfortable as your court session goes on because it will start to feel hot and sweaty and the added weight may start to weigh on you. If you feel a headache while you’re wearing your wig, it’s likely that you’re either wearing a wig that’s too small for you or your adjustments have made the wig too tight. Experiment with loosening the drawstring or rearranging the clips. If that does not work, you might need to remeasure your head or look at getting the next size up. Make sure it’s covering your hairline and isn’t sitting too far forward or too far back on your head. After putting it on, check to make sure there are no loose hairs peeking out from beneath the wig. If you’re wearing a wig cap, examine yourself in a mirror to ensure that the fabric of the wig cap isn’t visible. If you are wearing both items properly, your barrister wig should look like a seamless extension of your barrister outfit and comfort will be maximised, helping you to avoid itchiness and fiddling. With the perfect fit for your barrister wig, you can attend your court sessions in style and comfort, commanding respect and professionalism and helping you to uphold the values and authority of the court. Check out our barrister wig collection in the Tailor de Jure section of our online store and begin your journey of finding the right wig for court today. Shop Legal Wigs

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Caring for Your Court Attire: Tips for Maintaining Robes, Wigs, and Gowns

When getting ready for court, it’s important that your court attire is always looking its best in order to convey the right sense of professionalism, respect and authority to help proceedings go smoothly and to highlight the power of the court. To help you achieve greatness within your role as a judge or barrister, we’ve compiled some tips on caring for and maintaining your court gowns and wigs so that they remain in the best condition possible for a longer period of time. Shop Legal Wear Cleaning and Caring for Court Gowns and Robes Properly cleaning and looking after your court gown is important for increasing its lifespan. Excessive heat and moisture can both damage the fabric so it’s important to use the correct cleaning methods to slow down the rate of wear and tear. Dry Cleaning Court Robes The most effective method of cleaning your court gown is to have it professionally dry cleaned as companies will understand how to treat delicate fabrics properly. You won’t need to dry clean the robe too often if you keep it well-maintained. Dry cleaning will remove dirt and stains from your court robes without the use of moisture, protecting your attire from potential water damage. This is done through the use of a cleaning solvent instead of standard soap and water and the robe will then be air dried and pressed to remove wrinkles and creases in the fabric. Hand Washing Court Gowns Dry cleaning can be a costly endeavour however so you might prefer to wash your court robes at home with the cleaning materials you have on hand. Hand washing your robes will be a much gentler process than machine washing but don’t wash your robe with large amounts of water. The best option would be to lightly spot clean the stained area of the robe with as little water as possible and then leave it to dry. Use soft nail brushes and damp cloths. After cleaning, leave it to dry somewhere flat or hang it on a rail. This will stop creases from setting in and will prevent the fabric and stitching from being damaged by more rigorous drying methods such as wringing it out or tumble drying it. Fixing Tears in the Fabric of Your Court Gowns If you spot any tears in the stitching of your fabric, it’s best to sew up the tear as soon as possible to avoid the risk of it becoming larger in the future. Inspect your gown for small tears and rips after washing and after returning from court. On small tears, you can also opt to simply use fabric glue. If the edges of the tear are neat, the glue will seal the two sides together seamlessly. Just spread the glue evenly for a smooth finish and hold the edges together firmly. Storing Your Court Robes Safely After cleaning and drying your court robes, make sure you store them in a cool and sheltered space which can also help to avoid damage from moisture, reinforcing the care that needs to be taken in the cleaning process. For days in court, you can transport your court gown in a garment bag. This will help to keep your robes straight and neat while also protecting them from the elements. Storing your robe in a cool dry place and transporting it safely will help to ensure that the rich black colour of your robes doesn’t fade too quickly. It can also create the perfect conditions to prevent bugs from damaging the fabric and eating holes in your gowns. Cleaning and Caring for Court Wigs While wigs in modern courts are generally optional, they are still an important part of upholding the traditions of court, giving authority to judges and barristers to make their presence and judgments more imposing, while also garnering respect for their profession. Keeping wigs clean and well-maintained will make sure that you make a lasting impression and will help you to support and enforce the formal atmosphere of court, no matter what case you’re presiding over. Caring for Horsehair Court Wigs The classic horse hair material is the longest standing staple in court wig history. You’re not going to need too rigorous a cleaning process as the fine hair needs to be delicately handled. Simply sponge or dab at the dirty area with a cloth that’s been dampened with warm water. Like with cleaning court robes, it’s important to avoid using too much heat and water in the cleaning process as this can damage the fibres. Be careful not to scrub at the horsehair wig during cleaning as this may disturb the placement of the hairs and misshape the wig, altering its appearance negatively. Caring for Vegan Court Wigs Like with horsehair wigs, avoid using overly hot water as this can damage the fibres, whether you’re using synthetic material or plant-based fibres. There are heat-resistant synthetic fibres so check what kind of synthetic barrister wig you own before you commence the washing process. Make sure to stock up on wig care products if you’re going to be treating your synthetic wig yourself so that you can ensure your wig remains soft, smooth and natural, helping you to keep all the hairs in place and prevent knots and matting. These products can include: A wig brush Wig shampoo Wig conditioner Dry shampoo Fibre oil conditioner Storing Judge and Barrister Wigs Safely You can help your court wig to keep its shape by storing it on a wig stand. Keeping the wig in its original box can crease the fibres, especially if you own a full-bottomed wig, with the longer style needing more room to hang. You can also use wig stands as a place to dry your wig after washing it so that the fibres can dry naturally without the hairs getting disturbed by scrubbing, towelling or other drying methods. For short term wig storage, you can keep the box on hand to transport it to and from court. The wig won’t be in the box long enough for the hairs to get misshapen. Alternatively, you can use a breathable bag that allows for air circulation and reduces the risk of dirt and dust from settling in the hairs and affecting the appearance of your wig. Cleaning and Caring for Other Court Accessories Your court attire isn’t just made up of the quintessential court gown and wig. There are also a range of other accessories to take care of to make sure they are in the best condition possible. This will help to create a cohesive overall appearance that proves that you’ve paid careful attention to detail, creating a professional aesthetic that will greatly benefit you during trials and hearings. This will include cleaning accessories such as: Court tunic shirts Barrister trousers Collars and collarettes Barrister bands Cufflinks Make sure other items of your court attire are pressed and starched, keeping whites free of unsightly stains and making sure collars and bands remain stiff and sharp. Shirts and trousers can be washed in a machine. Just remember to iron before your appearance in court to remove creases and complete your professional ensemble. Don’t forget to polish and shine your cufflinks to remove any dirt and tarnish that may have gathered on them. You can fill a bowl with warm soapy water and soak your cufflinks for a few minutes. Upon removing them, use a toothbrush or soft nail brush to remove dirt without scratching the finish before rinsing and drying. Every item of clothing in your court attire is just as important as the next. Keep each item clean and attend court with pride and confidence in your appearance and make a strong impression on the jury, your client and other attendees who expect only the best of the best in court. You can browse our Tailor de Jure collection to see our range of court attire and accessories such as wig stands. Don’t hesitate to get in touch with us to get some more advice on how to best look after your court attire. Shop Legal Wear

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Behind the Wig and Robe: A Day in the Life of a Barrister

Being a barrister is an important profession and it can be a detailed and intense job. We’ve put together this guide to help you step into the shoes of a barrister, getting you prepared for the next stage of your journey by taking you through the day to day responsibilities you’ll be facing and the importance of your barrister attire. Buy Barrister Gowns What Does a Barrister Do? Barristers are commonly known for providing legal advice, representing clients in court and advising them on the ins and outs of their case. They can also start legal proceedings in court on behalf of their client. When carrying out your daily jobs, you will be expected to write out legal documents, liaise with other court officials and put research into your cases. Your jobs in court meanwhile will involve representing your client, cross-examining witnesses and reviewing evidence. You may also negotiate settlements though this can be done out of court. The personal responsibilities of a barrister during the course of their work and while they are in session include: Supplying the court with all the relevant information of the case Maintaining integrity while acting in the best interest of their clients Keeping their client’s information confidential Not discriminating against their client or any persons in court Taking special care with vulnerable clients whether that be a disability, age, income status or immigration status A barrister should make sure to always keep these responsibilities in mind when performing their job to ensure that they maintain their honesty and reliability. The Areas of Law a Barrister Works In When you finally start your career as a barrister, you will likely specialise in one area of the law in particular, something you may already have decided on during your studies. Some of the practice areas you can get involved in as an established barrister include: Criminal law – handling cases that deal with crimes such as theft, vandalism or murder Youth court – handling cases that deal with people between the ages of 10 and 17 Family law – handling cases that deal with divorce, child welfare and domestic violence Immigration law – handling cases that deal with immigration, asylum appeals and helping businesses to acquire immigration statuses for employees Commercial law – handling cases that deal with employment law, insurance claims, import and export and property law The Four Inns of Court To qualify to become a barrister, you must first join one of the Inns of Court in London, professional associations that offer scholarships and academic and vocational training. The four Inns of Court are: Gray’s Inn – the smallest inn provides a close-knit community of barristers that provide aid and support The Inner Temple – has a wide reputation for global membership and encourages diversity in its membership Lincoln’s Inn – the largest of the four Inns, priding itself on helping students succeed regardless of background Middle Temple – provides £1 million a year for its students and aids them with sponsorship schemes and advocacy training among other services It will generally take five years to become a fully qualified barrister, including three years at university for your law degree, one year on a Bar course and one year in chambers. It’s important to choose the right Inn to gain a sense of community and reach all the milestones and achievements you hope to reach. Selecting an Inn is entirely subjective so if you’re just starting out on your law journey at university, be sure to attend the tours of each of the Inns and find the perfect one for you. How Does a Barrister Prepare for Court? As we mentioned earlier, barristers have numerous responsibilities to perform in court whether you’re working as prosecution or defence. After getting together your research and documents for the trial or hearing in court, you will prepare for court by dressing yourself in the barrister gown and wig. You will not be required to wear a wig in Youth Court or in cases involving family law in order to create a more friendly and relaxing environment for minors. Wigs are still a requirement for criminal trials. Preparing Your Barrister Wig Barrister wigs are the most expensive part of the barrister attire ensemble and will typically be made out of traditional horsehair or hemp, for a vegan option. For your first barrister wig, you should measure your head to ensure you get a wig that fits. Measure the circumference of your head with a tape measure around the forehead, about one inch above the eye. Make sure not to squeeze the tape too tight as you won’t get an accurate reading otherwise. If your head measurement is between two sizes, go for the largest size. Barrister wigs often have drawstrings at the back so that you can adjust the fit accordingly. Looking After Your Barrister Wig When looked after properly, your wig can last for a hundred years. Leather cases will protect the wig from the elements while wig tins punched with holes will provide an easy and inexpensive way of carrying the wig while allowing it to breathe. Wigs can become damaged over time from the oils and sweat produced from your hair and head, resulting in bad odours. A professional wig cleaning service will help to reshape your wig and remove any dirt that has gathered, creating a fresh and professional appearance. If you are washing your wig yourself for the next day of work, use warm water and a cloth to gently wipe the horsehair. Don’t be too vigorous as this can cause your wig to lose its shape, pulling hairs out of alignment. Buy Barrister Wigs Preparing Your Barrister Gown Your barrister gown is the most important part of your lawyer attire. The measurements of your barrister robe will take in your full body from the top of your head to your feet. This is the only measurement you’ll need to find the right fit for your gown. When you put it on, make sure that the gown hangs straight and evenly on your shoulders. Adjust the sleeves and then put on any extra accessories you will require. Male barristers will generally wear a white band around the neck while female barristers will wear a bib and collarette. The collarette is not a requirement however and female barristers can also choose to wear the band. All bands must be worn over a wing-collared white tunic shirt. Buy Barrister Gowns Looking After Your Barrister Gown After work, a barrister will store their gown in a barrister bag, usually embroidered with their initials for easy identification. This will help to keep your gown safe from dust and outside pollutants while travelling and help you to stay looking neat and professional. Make sure your robes are always hung up when not in use to avoid creases from setting into the fabric. Dry cleaning with low steam is the best way to have your barrister gown cleaned, protecting the delicate fabric from wear and tear. You can also hand wash the robes with warm water and laundry detergent. Be sparing with water and cleaning products to avoid damaging the fabric and make sure to clean stains with a gentle brush or cloth. The Daily Working Life of a Barrister After cleaning, prepping and putting on your barrister attire, you’ll be ready to start the day’s work. Barrister Responsibilities in the Morning The barrister’s morning will start early. You’ll usually find yourself waking up around 6am. Depending on how far you have to travel to arrive at court, you may have to wake up earlier, giving yourself enough time to prepare your documents when you arrive. You will use this time before court begins to brief your client and talk about game plans for the upcoming trial or hearing. You may discuss evidence and prep them for testimonies, giving them advice on how to handle themselves while court is in session. You may also need to meet with the opposition, be that persecution or defence. Court sessions will generally start around 10am with barristers expected to arrive at least an hour earlier. Afternoon Responsibilities of a Barrister During the later hours of the morning and the afternoon, a barrister will be spending most of their time in court if they have a trial or hearing they have been preparing for. This will involve interviewing and cross-examining witnesses, presenting evidence and making opening and closing statements. On days where you aren’t scheduled to appear for court, you’ll be carrying out a lot of the heavy lifting for preparing for cases. This can include: Briefs and interviews with clients Researching cases Writing out legal documents Negotiating with other legal aides Evening Responsibilities of a Barrister Often, you’ll find that your daily work spills over into the night, with heavy workloads requiring more time and energy to ensure the work is completed properly. This will include catching up on research, finishing up on writing documents or prepping your speeches and questions for when you appear in court. If possible, always try to get a good night’s sleep the evening before a court appearance. Being a barrister is tough but rewarding but with the right preparation, you can focus better on the tasks and responsibilities and make the most of each day in your new position. Wearing the right barrister outfit can also help to make you feel more comfortable in your career, helping you to feel more in control and confident as you represent clients in court. You can check out our guides on taking care of your barrister gown and wig for more information and browse our range of barrister outfits and wigs in our legal product collection.

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The Role of Clergy Shirts in Church Hierarchy

Clergy shirts are pieces of clothing worn by members of the clergy and clarify the wearer’s role within the church. While styles can differ across churches and regions, their meaning is the same, representing faith, service and tradition. Clergy shirt colours will often distinguish between different hierarchies. Traditionally, clergy shirts were designed for men, indicating the male-dominated structure of many religious institutions. However, as more religious denominations have become more inclusive, there has also been an evolution in clergy attire to include tailored clergy shirts for women. Clergy shirts are now designed to accommodate women’s body shapes whilst maintaining the dignity and formality expected of clergy attire. Shop Clergy Shirts History The origins of clergy attire can be traced back to the Roman Empire, when clerics were advised to dress in a stole so as to distinguish them from the laity. Traditionally, a full-length black robe called a Cassock would be worn. A Cassock and gown were worn as an outdoor dress until the beginning of the nineteenth century, when it became common to wear a detachable collar over the top, which then evolved into the clerical collar. The 1800s saw the rise of clerical shirts for catholic priests; the black shirt and Roman collar we know today. The contrast between the black shirt and white collar made it easy to identify clergy in public. By the end of the 19th century, it became common for different colours to be worn to distinguish the church hierarchy. Clergy shirt colours Black: Traditional clergy attire is worn mainly by catholic and Methodist priests. Usually a black shirt with a white removable ‘dog collar’. Red: Bishops or cardinals normally wear a maroon shirt. Other senior members of the clergy may also wear red. Purple: A bishop or senior bishop wears purple. A bishop may wear a purple shirt with white collar in the presence of a senior Bishop. White: Usually worn during formal ceremonies such as weddings, funerals and religious holidays. A white Cassock-style robe is usually worn. Clerical collar The clerical collar is normally white and used to be made from cotton or linen, but now tends to be made from plastic. There are a few different styles of collar: Vicar’s Collar: A white band encircles the neck, and studs attach it to the shirt. Roman Collar: A full collar rises slightly above the shirt, revealing a tab around the top. A Slip-in Collar: the shirt worn has a tunnel around the neck, in order to insert a detachable collar. At Evess, we sell a range of clerical uniforms from clergy shirts for women, clerical collars and traditional Cossacks. You can buy clergy shirts online here. If you’re not sure what you need, one of our team will be happy to help you. Shop Clergy Shirts

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How to Properly Care for Your Clergy Attire: Maintenance Tips for Longevity

Caring for your clergy attire is an important part of maintaining your appearance during services and can ensure your attire keeps its colour and shape for a long time. Here are some tips you can follow to ensure the longevity of your clergy attire. Shop Clergy Attire What are the Different Clergy Vestments? There are many different types of clergy attire for you to keep clean and maintain, ensuring that you are always looking your best and no clergy vestment is left unattended to. Some of the different types of clergy vestments you will need to keep clean include: Albs – a long-sleeved, full-length white tunic won by numerous officiants in various Christian denominations. Cassocks – a full-length black clerical coat worn by priests, bishops, and other ordained ministers. Surplices – made from loose, white linen and often between hip length and calf length, commonly worn over cassocks. Stoles – a silk vestment worn over the shoulders like a scar and hanging to the knee, generally worn by priests. Chasuble – the outermost liturgical vestment commonly worn by priests. Maniples – though not as common in modern times, priests can still opt to wear this vestment, a tasselled strip hanging from the left arm. The types of clergy vestments you wear and will need to clean will vary depending on what member of the clergy you are. Make sure to take stock of each liturgical vestment you own before commencing the cleaning process. Caring for Your Clerical Attire: Tips and Tricks There are a number of steps to follow when it comes to carrying out the proper cleaning maintenance on your various clerical vestments, ensuring that each one gets the proper care to avoid wear and tear that will damage your attire and affect its appearance. Different Clergy Attire Cleaning Methods There are a number of different ways you can tackle the cleaning of your clergy attire that will help you to remove stains, dust and odours without damaging the fabric. You can check the care labels on your vestments to determine the right course of action when it comes to the cleaning process. 1. Dry Cleaning Clergy Attire Dry cleaning your clergy attire is one of the most effective ways of cleaning your vestments effectively without causing wear and tear. You can hire a dry cleaning service or do it yourself at home to save time and money and still receive the same high-quality finish. Dry cleaning your stoles and clerical robes the first time is also beneficial in setting the colours to help them retain their vibrancy for longer without fading. Dry cleaning will remove odours, stains and wrinkles easily, leaving you looking crisp and professional at your next service. 2. Hand Washing Clergy Attire Hand washing your clerical vestments with a mild detergent can also be effective for removing stains, so long as you keep the soap solution gentle and the water lukewarm to avoid any chemical damage to your fabrics. Allow the stained vestment to soak and gently move the item back and forth in the water to loosen the dirt. If your attire is stained, pre-treat the affected area before beginning the washing process. You can spot-clean the area with the soap and water solution, dabbing gently to avoid setting the stain deeper into the fabric. You can also use a non-bleach stain remover, just make sure to test it first to ensure it won’t discolour the vestment. A lot of the time, you won’t need to wash the whole robe or vestment to remove a stain. You can spot-clean the stain as soon as possible after the accident occurs. Simply blot the area, apply one of the above-mentioned stain removal solutions, and then rinse with cold water before leaving it to dry. 3. Drying Your Clergy Attire You have to dry your clergy attire with the same care and attention as the washing process. Some drying options include: Press drying – press the vestment between two towels which will absorb any excess water from the fabric. Air drying – one of the best methods is to hang the vestment somewhere where it can hang straight. Hang it in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Steaming – you can also steam your clergy attire to remove wrinkles effectively after the washing process. 4. Storing Your Clerical Attire After cleaning and drying your clergy vestments, it’s important to store your clerical attire properly to avoid wrinkles setting in, helping you to maintain the appearance of each garment. Contoured robe hangers will help you to preserve the shape of the robes so that when you go to wear them next, they hang properly on your body. You should also keep the robes stored in a garment bag in a cool, dry place. This will prevent dust and odours from permeating the fabric, keeping them safe and protected from the elements so that they don’t lose their colour. Avoid folding the robes as this can create creases. Things to Avoid When Cleaning Clergy Attire The most important thing to do when cleaning clergy attire is to avoid any wear and tear. The fabrics used for clerical vestments are often quite fragile and so need to be treated gently to avoid any discolouration, damage, and ruination of shape. 1. Avoid Harsh Chemicals Harsh chemicals can cause permanent damage to the fabric, causing wear and tear and discolouration. Avoid using any heavy-duty cleaning materials, especially bleach. Mild soaps and eco-friendly cleaning detergents are the best course forward as these will have little to no chemicals in them, allowing you to get the cleanliness you need without any risk. 2. Avoid Ironing Clergy Attire The heat from an iron can also damage fabrics. If your care labels specify no ironing, then it’s probable that attempting to iron will burn and damage fabrics instead of eliminating wrinkles. If you do need to iron your clerical vestments, you can put a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to mitigate some of the heat going into your clergy attire. 3. Avoid Machine Washing and Machine Drying Vestments Machine washing and machine drying cycles can often be too damaging and violent on the liturgical vestments, weakening fibres and causing them to lose their shape. The temperatures of these types of machines may also be too high, especially if you are considering washing the items with other pieces of clothing. If machine washing and drying are unavoidable, try to do a low-heat cycle and wash the vestments separately from other garments. 4. Don’t Agitate the Clergy Vestments When we say not to agitate the clergy vestments, we mean that during hand washing, it’s best to avoid any scrubbing or wringing, as these harsh movements can damage the fibres in the fabrics. This links into the above point about machine washing as the movement of the machine can also cause harsher movements that the delicate fabric won’t be able to handle. Keeping your robes clean and taking pride in your treatment of each garment will help to maintain your image and professionalism in church. By helping your vestments to last longer, you can save money and uphold the community you serve. You can talk to us today to find out more about maintaining the longevity of your clerical attire and buy new vestments from our clergy store. Shop Clergy Attire

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Seasonal Clergy Attire: Understanding Liturgical Colours and When to Wear Them

The use of liturgical colours in Christian churches dates back to the fourth century, and has become a long-standing tradition to help differentiate between the different types of religious service to give each one the weight and meaning they deserve. We’ve compiled this informative guide to the liturgical seasons and the colours associated with them so that you can be sure to acquire and wear the right colours at the right time and uphold the traditions of your church. Shop Clergy Uniform What is the History of Liturgical Seasons and Colours? As we have already mentioned, liturgical colours first began entering churches in the West from the 4th century onwards. It can be said that Constantine began the use of liturgical colours by gifting a robe of gold thread to a bishop in Jerusalem. From there, Pope Innocent III began the use of liturgical colours as we know them today in their traditional, sequential sense. Red, green, white, and black were the most common, with violet being used less frequently. The biggest difference here is that black is no longer used in modern services, though the colour was often associated with penitence, such as the Ambrosian rites in Lent. Rose as a colour used for some events of the liturgical calendar year came about in the thirteenth century, supposedly arising from the tradition of the pope blessing a golden rose at certain times of the year. The liturgical seasons meanwhile were established early in the church and were based on the life of Jesus. They also have roots that can be traced back to the Jewish calendar year that was based on the Hebrew Bible. Some similar feasts and events that can be found in the Jewish religious year include the Feast of Unleavened Bread which is related to Passover and the Feast of Weeks which corresponds with Pentecost. What are the Liturgical Seasons? Thoughts on the different liturgical seasons throughout the calendar can differ between the different denominations of Christianity. For example, Ordinary Time is not included in some Protestant traditions. Generally speaking, the liturgical seasons are: Advent – the start of the Christian year, looking towards the birth of Christ. Christmas – celebrates the birth of Jesus, and lasts from Christmas Day until Epiphany on January 6th, though it also includes up to the Baptism of the Lord on January 13th. Ordinary Time after Epiphany – runs from Epiphany to Shrove Tuesday. Lent – a period of penance and preparation before the resurrection of Jesus. It starts on Ash Wednesday and lasts 40 days till Holy Saturday. These 40 days do not include Sundays. Easter – celebrates the resurrection of Jesus, and starts on Easter Sunday through to Pentecost 50 days later Pentecost – a celebration of the disciples being visited by the Holy Spirit. The feast lasts three days, but it can include 28 Sundays up until Advent. Ordinary Time after Pentecost – overlaps with some views on the duration of Pentecost, extending from after Pentecost Sunday and going on until the end of Advent. Depending on which season you are holding services in, you will need to make sure you have robes of the right colour in order to carry out the religious services properly and celebrate them in the correct manner. What are the Liturgical Colours? Each liturgical season is assigned its own colour to symbolise each feast and service. Each of the different colours are drawn from creation and represents the different blessings of God throughout the calendar year. The liturgical colours for each season are as follows: Advent – Blue/purple Christmas – White/gold Epiphany – Green Lent – Purple Easter – Red/purple for the week preceding Easter. White/gold for Easter Pentecost – Red Ordinary Time – Green What does Each of the Liturgical Colours Symbolise? Each of the liturgical colours holds a different meaning depending on the season, allowing Christians and the clergy to celebrate everything the religion stands for, while also giving people the opportunity to be a part of a greater community united in celebrating something they all believe in. Blue – is the colour of the Virgin Mary and is often associated with hope, fidelity, and aspiration. Purple – is often associated with penance, preparation, and sacrifice. Green – symbolises life, hope, and growth. White – symbolises purity, innocence, glory, and joy. Gold – generally has the same symbolic meaning as white colours. Red – is associated with blood, fire, God’s love, and passion. Understanding what each liturgical colour means is an important part of connecting with God and your religion more deeply. Celebrating the meaning of each season is an important part of finding joy and hope in your own life and then sharing this with your own community in the services you lead. Are there any Variations in Liturgical Colours for the Seasons? Occasionally, you may find that other colours are required for days in the liturgical seasons that differentiate from the common colour. Understanding what these different colours are will help you to stay on top of any robe changes and celebrate each festival and event of the liturgical season in the proper way, highlighting your dedication and faith. Advent – the colour Rose is used only on the third Sunday of Advent. Lent – rose may also be used on Laetare Sunday (the 4th Sunday). Red is worn on Palm Sunday and Good Friday. White/violet are worn on Holy Thursday and Holy Saturday. Ordinary Time – other colours may be worn on feast days. For example, white can be worn on Marian feast days, and white is also the colour for the Nativity of St John the Baptist. Understanding the liturgical colours and when to wear them is one of the most important first steps you can take when beginning your new career as a member of the clergy. You can head to the Church section of our Choralia collection to browse the clergy robes and vestments we have on offer so you can begin your journey of building your collection of liturgical clergy attire and celebrate each season with the passion it deserves. Shop Clergy Uniform

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Finding the Perfect Fit: A Guide to Measuring and Customising Clergy

All members of the clergy have different needs and requirements for their clergy attire so that they can feel comfortable while performing their services in the church. We’ve put together a guide below showing you how best to measure your various clergy vestments so that you can go to work feeling your best self. Shop Clergy Vestments What are Clergy Vestments? Clergy vestments are clerical robes and assorted garments and accessories worn by members of the Christian clergy during religious services, weddings, and funerals. If you are a new member of the Lutherans, Eastern Orthodox, Anglicans, or Catholics, you will find you require robes for your new position in your local church. The list of garments you will require includes the following: Cincture – a rope belt that holds the alb in Alb – a white full-length vestment Cassock – a long-sleeved full-length black garment Amice – a white linen cloth worn on the shoulders underneath the alb Stole – a silk vestment worn under the shoulders Chasuble – the main robe a member of the clergy wears Surplice – a loose linen vestment worn over the cassock and reaching calf to hip-length Cotta – a miniature alb that is worn over the cassock. These vestments all work together to create a cohesive whole. Having everything just the right length for your body type will go a long way to ensuring you look professional and respectable. Measuring for Your Clerical Robes Having an accurate and comprehensive guide for measuring your church robes is essential to making sure you stay comfortable, especially if you will be wearing the robes for an extended period of time. It will also help to ensure that there are no risks of tripping over the course of the day due to having robes that are just a little too long for you. There are a number of different styles of chasubles so it’s important to make sure that when you are looking for size guides, you are looking at the correct type of clergy robe. Some of the different types of chasubles are: Gothic Chasuble Monastic Chasuble Roman Chasuble Marian Chasuble Semi-Gothic Chasuble Once you’ve determined which type of chasuble you’re purchasing, you can start to take your measurements. The easiest place to start is with your height and once you’ve started your search, make sure to measure your: Back Chest Waist Arms Neck This will help your robes to hang well on your body, making sure your sleeve length isn’t overlong and covers your hands and that it isn’t too tight around the neck. When measuring for and selecting your preferred chasuble, you will also have the opportunity to add a little personal flair with the width of the robe’s collar. You will generally be looking at 1 inch for Roman-style collars and 2 inches for Anglican-style colours. Make sure to take into consideration the denomination of Christianity you are a part of, as choosing a similar collar style for your robe will help to create a sense of unity and community with your fellow clergy members. Measuring for Your Cassock Your cassock is an important part of the clerical ensemble. Like the chasuble, it does down to the foot so making sure the garment is properly length will make sure you stay safe while performing your clerical duties. Measure your height in inches as this is the most standard measurement unit used for cassocks, and make sure not to slouch. It can be a good idea for someone else to carry out the measurement for you. You should also make sure to measure all the parts of your body detailed above for robe measurements, while also including measuring around the fullest part of your tummy to ensure that the cincture belt will fit properly. After selecting whether you want a custom-made cassock or one that’s ready to be bought at your selected store, you can customise it based on the type of material you feel most comfortable in with each material offering different advantages. Polyester – durable and easily cleaned. Cotton – a lightweight material suited for warmer weather. Fabric blends – a blend of different fabrics, increasing durability and comfort. Silk – professional and comfortable. Measuring for Clerical Stoles The first thing to do when measuring for stoles is to measure down from the back of your neck and over the shoulder down to the front of your body. You can stop measurement at the place on your body where you wish the stole to come to. Make sure your measurements are even on both sides of your body so that when you order your stole, both lengths match for an even and professional feel. It’s also a good idea to have the length of the stole match the length of your chosen chasuble Your stole measurements will also depend on which kind of style you’ve opted for. Tapered stoles are often shorter. Ecclesiastical stoles are often made of silk and are 8 feet long. You can also customise your clergy stole to make it more personal to you, such as having it embroidered with a symbol of your faith. The type of stole you will need to measure for may also depend on the type of service you will be performing. These will include: White – Weddings, Baptisms and Ordinations Green – Trinity and Ordinary Time Purple – Advent, Lent, and Funerals Red – Pentecost and Saint’s Days Measuring for Other Clergy Vestments Making sure to measure for each individual element of your clerical attire is important to make sure you find the perfect fit and that all your vestments match and look professional together. Measuring for Clerical Collars Measure around the base of your neck with a flexible measuring tape. Make sure you’re only measuring your skin and not any clothes around your neck. Add 1-2 inches to the final measurement depending on how much of a relaxed fit you want for your collar. Measuring for Clerical Amices Amices will often be designed to fit a wide range of sizes, customised to be roughly 36 inches by 24 inches. Amices will have two strings allowing you to tailor the size after putting it on to make sure it fits properly and suits your body type and measurements. Measuring for a Clerical Alb Alb measurements are taken based on the length of the vestment not the overall height of the person. Measure from the top of the vertebra to the top of the shoe, taking off about 12 inches of height. You will also need to measure from shoulder to shoulder along the back and the length of your arms when the elbow is bent to get the sleeve length. Measure for Clerical Surplices and Cottas Surplices and cottas require three measurements on the back, chest, and arm to get the perfect fit and sleeve length. All surplices regardless of style use these same measurements. Traditionally, you will want a surplice that covers the full length of your arms and hangs down to your knee. Different styles of surplice for the clergy include Anglican style and Roman style. You will generally measure from the flat part of your shoulder to the place on your thigh where you would like the surplice or cotta to extend. With the right measurements, you will be all set for your career in the clergy and you will be able to enter each service feeling confident in your role. If you are looking for vestments to purchase with your new measurements, you can head to our Choralia church range to explore our range of cassocks, albs, surplices, cottas, and more. Shop Clergy Vestments

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The Psychology of Choir Robes: How Attire Influences Performance and Perception

Choir robe attire can have a distinct effect on the performance of your choristers and the impression they leave on your audience. This positive psychological effect can be achieved through functionality, colour or individual flair that helps your choir to be unique and stand out from the crowd. Read on for our guide on how choir attire can influence the singing of your members and transform perceptions of your church. Shop Choir Robes The Practical Psychology of Church Choir Robes First and foremost, the choir robes you outfit your choristers in must be comfortable. Uncomfortable clothes can distract from the performance, causing irritations and allowing singing quality to drop. Due to their long lengths and straight style, it’s important to ensure choir robes are designed with loose-fitting fabrics that are light and breathable so that your choir can move around on stage without feeling restricted and have the full capabilities of their chest, stomach and lungs so they can sing perfectly. Creating the best conditions for your choir during their performance is vital. You may want to opt for two sets of choir robes for your members. A warmer, heavier robe will keep your choir insulated in colder seasons while a lighter robe will keep them cool in the summer. The Psychological Advantages of Choir Ruffs Some choirs, particularly traditional ones, will wear ruffs as part of their choral attire ensemble. They are most commonly used nowadays to enhance the aesthetic of a choir and its performance and the uniqueness of the accessory can help choristers to feel like part of a unique community, allowing them to feel more proud of their position in the choir and put them in a more positive mood for the performance. The ornate design of the neck ruff also helps to draw attention to the chorister’s face during their performance, strengthening the vocal performance and the audience’s attention and interest. On a practical level, the neck ruff can also be used to encourage and remind your choir members to maintain the perfect posture during their performance. Good posture will help them to sing better, supporting their breathing and improving their airflow and vocal projection. Presentation of Choir Attire How each member of the choir presents their choir robes is just as important as wearing the robes. With neat, clean clothes, your choristers will be able to have more confidence in their public performances, boosting their mood and their self-image. Some tips on keeping your choir attire clean and well-presented include: Polishing shoes Laundering and ironing items of clothing worn under the robe Dry cleaning and storing choir robe in a bag to keep it from getting wrinkled Spot cleaning any stains that may have gotten onto your robe. Remember to minimise water usage to avoid damaging the fabric Hair is just as important part of your presentation as your clothes. Make sure each chorister keeps their hair neatly brushed and arranged so that they always feel their best while they are performing on stage or in church. The Psychology Behind Choir Robe Design The choir robe plays a significant role in how your choir is perceived, so it is important to make sure the design of your robes reflects the values and personality of your choir to create as authentic an experience as possible. Colour of Choir Robes Choir robe colours have similar symbolic meanings to clergy attire due to the close connections to religion and spirituality. Wearing the right colour choir robe can help to inspire a collective emotion and meaning that reflects the beliefs of the choir and gets them in the right frame of mind for their performance. Some common colours found in choir robe design include: Black – associated with sombreness and humbleness White – associated with holiness and purity Purple – associated with repentance, reflection and absolution Red – associated with passion, humanity and spiritualism Blue – associated with serenity and harmony Gold and silver – associated with introspection and wealth Cultural Significance of Choir Robes One of the main psychological advantages of dressing your choir in the same robes is the sense of equality that it invokes. Each member of the choir is just as important as the next and the design of the choir robe ensures that everyone feels included and valued. The members of your choir will come from different walks of life and different cultures. Have your robes reflect the diversity of your choir, whether that be with unique colour schemes or accessories that symbolise the heritage of your choristers such as stoles in the colours of their nation’s flag. The inclusivity of your choir robe design will have a positive psychological effect on the individual chorister, allowing them to celebrate their individuality while also being a part of the greater choral community. Building Community Through Choir Robes Having a uniform for your choir performances can be a strong way to build unity and connections between your choir members, helping them to work together as a cohesive whole. It’s important to try to put as much thought as possible into your choir robe choices and designs so that you can ensure that the final look suits and complements every single member, helping them to feel considered and comfortable in their gowns. The Performance Psychology of Choir Robes After selecting the perfect choir robe, you will be all ready for your performance in front of an audience. This can often be a nerve-wracking experience but dressing in the right outfit will help to build confidence and make your choristers feel like they belong on the stage. Wearing choir robes will help your members to immerse themself in their singing, with the harmony of the music connecting with the harmony of their choir attire to set the tone for the audience. If they feel confident and comfortable in their robes, their self-esteem will be boosted, lending more energy to their performance. If your choir feels at home in their formal attire, their morale will surge and their singing will become more empowered. Choir Robes and Audience Perception Audience perception of your choir is strongly linked to their performance and stage presence. Presenting your choir as a unified and professional whole will instill a greater impression on the audience and in a church setting, allow you to more easily form bonds with your audience based on joy, faith, and spirituality. The goal of the choir is to speak to the audience and inspire emotion within them. Colour symbolism and robe aesthetic can play a huge part in supporting the meaning of a song. You will also be representing the church as a whole during your performance, and with the right robes, the audience will feel that connection and reverence you have for your religion. The visual appeal of your choir robes as you move around on stage will also help to draw and focus the audience’s attention, encouraging them to lose themselves in your performance and become immersed in the choral experience. Wearing choir robe attire is all about forging stronger connections between your choir, the church and your audience, helping to build community and encouraging confidence and pride in your choristers so that every performance is their best. For more information on outfitting your choir, you can read our article on selecting the perfect choir robe for your group. For inspiration on colour, design and style, head to our Choralia product page and find the perfect choir attire today. Shop Choir Robes

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Fashion and Faith: The Intersection of Style and Identity in Clergy Attire

As a uniform, clergy attire is a type of fashion and fashion has always played an important role in personal culture and identity, which is no less true for faith and spirituality. Members of the clergy are expected to take pride in their appearance and fashion can play a big part in how they express their worship and connect to their larger community in the name of God. Read on to find out more about how fashion and faith intersect and enrich the Church-going experience. Shop Clergy Attire The Clergy Attire Dress Code There’s no fashion in spiritual identity without the very clerical items of clothing that make up the religious outfit. Whether it be differentiations between colour and style, culture or traditional wear, the church-going experience and the identity of religion is tied closely to each vestment worn. The History of Clerical Attire Fashion The origin of clerical attire can be traced all the way to the Roman Empire who wanted to distinguish the clergy from the common people with a formal white linen clerical shirt. Over the centuries, clerical attire became more unique and distinguished. The Catholic vestments worn by members of the Roman Catholic and Eastern Orthodox churches have their own roots in the fashions of the 13th century. But it wouldn’t be fashion if there weren’t constant updates and evolutions keeping the clerical attire modern and expressive of spiritual identity. New elements of clergy dress were being added as late as the nineteenth century. This is in reference to the iconic clerical collar, a detachable version of which was invented by Reverend Donald McLeod, a Presbyterian minister. Elements of Clergy Attire It can be quite confusing trying to wrap your head around all the different elements and vestments worn by various members of the Church, making clerical attire just as complex as other areas of fashion. The complexity of clerical fashion can often feel linked to exclusivity, making the clergy’s identity more unique and individual to their specific community. Elements of the clergy dress code include: Albs – an ankle-length white dress-like vestment Cassocks – an ankle-length vestment, often black and often adorned with 33 buttons to symbolise the 33 years of Jesus’ life Surplices – a white loose vestment worn over cassocks and often found to be between hip-length and calf-length Amice – a white linen vestment under the alb that is worn on the neck and shoulders Chasuble – an ornate outer vestment with no sleeves. Often worn by Catholic and High Anglican priests during Mass Dalmatic – a long, loose vestment open at the sides with wide sleeves. Typically worn by deacons and bishops Cincture – a girdle or belt vestment worn with albs or cassocks that can either be a band or a rope Stole – a scarf vestment. The priest will wear it vertically on his shoulders while a deacon will wear it diagonally from the left Tippet – a ceremonial scarf vestment that hangs straight down at the front Sustainability in Clergy Attire Sustainability is one of the big focuses of modern fashion and is starting to become a prevalent part of the future of clerical attire. This helps to ensure that the vestments worn by the clergy help to promote eco-conscious behaviours without sacrificing the traditional identities associated with the attire. Some materials used for making sustainable clerical shirts and attire include: Bamboo Recycled plastics Organic cotton Recycled fabrics Organic materials and recycling processes help to ensure there is no waste of natural resources and no harmful chemicals or synthetic fabrics that can cause pollution and harm the environment. Bringing sustainability into clerical attire and the church as a whole symbolises the strength of the clergy’s connection to God and the land. What the Bible Says About Clerical Attire The books of the Bible, such as John, indicate the importance attire has in reflecting the identity of a person and in reflecting the work of God and Jesus. The wearing of vestments also aids in the followers being able to identify the priests among them and understand their holy service. The book of Samuel mentions ‘linen ephods’. Exodus defines ephods as garments worn upon the shoulders, a mantle that in religious terms can symbolise the weight of the holy office and the responsibilities the priest has to his religious duties. The Bible also indicates fabrics and garments that shouldn’t be worn. For example, Leviticus and Deuteronomy reference not wearing wool and linen together in an outfit. Priests in the Bible would most often wear linen, including trousers, tunics and robes. The use of linen in Bible clergy attire was likely useful for keeping priests cool in hotter weather conditions as well as helping to provide modesty, providing less distraction and allowing the focus of the religion to remain firmly on God and not on his representatives. Biblical clerical dress was generally simplistic in style and fashion as the identity of spirituality and worship was by far more important than material pleasures and aesthetic. The Symbolism of Clerical Fashion The symbolism of clerical fashion is two-fold. The first is the religious symbolism of the vestments and what the priests represent while the second is the general symbolism and meaning of fashion and the influence style can have over identity. The Meaning of Fashion in Clerical Attire Fashion is a crucial part of cultures around the world and it is no less different for the culture of religion. The style of clerical attire influences how priests, bishops and their ilk are perceived and can change how they hold and present themselves, especially when they have become responsible for the religious communities they preside over. It walks a fine line between the personal identity of the individual in the clergy and the larger group community they have become a part of. When donning clerical attire, a religious leader may feel like they are stepping into a second skin, feeling more at home in themselves and celebrating their own personal beliefs and identity while also becoming part of something so much bigger than themselves. This empowerment can help to connect you with other members of your church, whether you’re the reverend leading a sermon, a member of the choir or just a regular church-goer sitting in the pews. Colour Symbolism in Traditional Catholic Dress There’s no way to talk about fashion in relation to the clergy without highlighting the significance colour has on how religious identities are perceived. Common colours found in church vestments include: Black – associated with humility, mourning and remembrance. In Christianity, black is also commonly connected to death and funerals. White – associated with purity, holiness and innocence. In Christianity, it is a common colour at baptisms and weddings. Purple – associated with penance and solemnity. It is worn at sombre celebrations and serves as a reminder to pray for absolution, especially for the departed at funerals. Red – associated with passion, sacrifice and blood, commonly in reference to the sacrifice of Jesus. Red is worn by cardinals and symbolises their devotion to the order. Green – associated with growth, life and hope. It’s commonly connected to the resurrection of Christ. Besides the meaning of each colour, they are also only worn during specific seasons and days of the year, commemorating events and celebrations. Purple for example is worn during Advent and Lent. Green vestments are worn in the Ordinary Time that takes place between Easter and Christmas and vice versa. This is in preparation for the celebrations of the birth and resurrection of Jesus, in keeping with the symbolism of life and growth. Red is often worn during celebrations that have close ties with the Holy Spirit. These include Pentecost, Good Friday, the feasts of various martyrs and confirmation. Fashion plays an intrinsic role in how religion presents itself, allowing members of the clergy to take pride in their appearance and in their connection to Christianity with each vestment carefully chosen and placed to represent their mission and devotion to God. You can learn more about the importance of clerical attire by reading our list of interesting facts about clerical shirts and collars. Head to our Choralia shop to browse our selection of clerical church dress for yourself and find the perfect garment for you. Shop Clergy Attire

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