Once you’re finally a lawyer, it is tempting to want to flaunt a bit. After all, you’ve earned your position after years of scrounging your way through law school, probably in a messy bun, and you’ve made it into an elite profession.

So why not show off a little?

But when it comes to courtroom style, wearing expensive pieces — suits with flashy details, statement jewelry, and obviously expensive shoes — can backfire in more than one way.

First, depending on your client, wearing expensive outfits and accessories can serve as a painful reminder of your bills. For your client, it’s better to look polished and professional but not posh.

For instance, most of my clients are farmers and ranchers. I wear suits for annual meetings and trials, but never in bright colors. I don’t bring fancy bags or outrageous shoes.

Second, and especially if your presenting to a jury, an expensive outfit and bangles can create a negative impression and alienate jurors, most of whom are missing work to listen to your case. You’re better off keeping your style neat but understated. People expect you to look like an attorney, not a fashionista.

Finally, dressing to the nines can give the judge the wrong impression, particularly if you practice in a suburb or rural jurisdiction.  Fancy style can quickly make you look like an outsider, and judges might take any flaunting as disrespectful to the Court.

This is not to say your style needs to be drab, shabby, or sloppy. Even if your clothes and shoes are expensive, it’s better if that’s not obvious.

Keeping your style simple and understated will help you make the right impression in court.