It's true, I just don't really think it is the law firm's job to try to make those changes. I do my work for social change outside the office, as it seems you do. But in the office, you are right: you gotta do what is best for client. Even if it means reinforcing some things in order to get the respect you deserve.

I don't really understand why using celebrity references is inherently bad. In the Marilyn Monroe part, they are specifically talking about voice. Monroe is known for her baby voice, Bacall was from same era and known for her deep resonating voice. Maybe not the best choice? Sure, I'll grant you that. But I don't…

I understand what you are saying, but I was only addressing the issue of dress.

I know a woman who was sent home from court by a judge for wearing a pantsuit. Totally fucking ridiculous, but it is the life we lead, to some extent. Granted this was in South Georgia.

I'll admit that a lot of this advice is not useful to all the women they sent it too. But there are unfortunately a lot of people out there (who got into good law schools, graduated, and got good jobs) that simply do not know!

I think it is much harder to test the bounds of professional dress as a man. When my husband goes to court, he has one option: suit and tie. When I go, I have many more: dress suit, skirt suit, pant suit, varying lengths, varying cuts, varying shades of shirt and high heel. It is easier to misstep, and I see more…

Yeah... remember all the stuff with Justice Kagan was getting vetted? It was such a big deal that she dared to "interrupt" attorneys during oral argument while on the court of appeals, like that isn't a judge's job!

Well there was obviously some issue they felt they needed to address. Also I think business fashion has gotten a little crazier recently, and people are maybe pushing the bounds more. More women in offices, means more fashion for those women, which means more options that aren't necessarily the best choices even…

It is insane! Where are you? Miami is the worst for this. I've been down there and seen some women where my jaw hit the floor. I guess it seems ok because they all do it, but it seems so unprofessional to me. In court!!!

Indeed. I once had a professor call out a first year because she answered his question with an inflection in her voice that made her sound unsure. I've always policed myself since then.

Oh yeah it's incredibly stupid advice. I just thought you interpreted it as "be quiet, lady." :) I would never try to change my pitch. Wut?

There you are! I was hoping you'd join me.

I believe the "lower your voice" is a reference to pitch, not volume. I can agree with you that it isn't presented in the best way.

Honestly, I get it. It is an industry that judges you for every little thing you do that doesn't match the boy's club. And maybe that should change, but until it does, you better play along or you won't get any respect.

What! We are in Tampa, too. My sinuses are terrible down here but I'm getting used to it.

You can do it! And it'll be great and you'll be so proud of yourself.

Yeah last year I didn't dress up either, because I ran out of time. I mean this year I am really going "bought," but it is because I bought the individual items. I didn't buy a put together costume, but also didn't have time to sew. It works!

Honestly this is mostly what I do. I can sew, but I typically use stuff I've found, and then use no sew stuff like velcro and what not. I don't want to put HOURS of effort in.

Yeah I'm doing Louise Belcher from Bob's Burgers. I was looking around for a dress and one site suggested using a $900 dress from Barney's. Wut?

I know not of the pan-handle you speak of. Sounds frigid.