What to Wear as a Summer Associate in 2026

The dress code question stresses out every incoming summer associate. Firms say "business casual" but that means different things at different firms, in different offices, and for different events.

Here is the practical guide.

The baseline: daily office wear

Most BigLaw firms have shifted to business casual for daily office wear. In 2026, this means:

For everyone: Pressed slacks or chinos (not jeans unless the firm explicitly allows them), a collared shirt or professional blouse, clean shoes (loafers, flats, or clean sneakers at more casual firms). No shorts, no flip-flops, no graphic tees.

When in doubt: Dress slightly more formally than you think you need to for the first week. Observe what associates in your practice group wear and calibrate from there. It is easier to dress down after arriving than to recover from showing up too casual on day one.

Client meetings and events

When you have a client meeting, court appearance, or external event, the dress code goes up a level. This means suits for everyone. Have at least two suits ready for the summer:

• A dark navy or charcoal suit that fits well
• A lighter option for warm weather

Make sure your suits are tailored. An inexpensive suit that fits well looks better than an expensive suit that does not.

Firm social events

This is where it gets confusing. Firm events range from casual (baseball games, bowling) to dressy (partner dinners, rooftop receptions). Follow whatever guidance the firm provides. If they say "casual," that still means a step above your weekend clothes. Think clean, put-together, intentional.

Office-specific differences

New York tends to be slightly more formal than other markets. Silicon Valley and tech-focused offices are more casual. Southern offices like Houston may be more traditional. If you are splitting your summer or visiting another office, ask about the dress norms there.

What not to overthink

Nobody has ever been no-offered because of their outfit. The dress code matters insofar as it shows you are paying attention and respect the professional environment. As long as you look clean, intentional, and appropriate for the setting, you are fine.

Check the firm directory for information about firm culture, which can give you a sense of the formality level before your summer starts.