Kerala High Court Revises Dress Code For Women Judicial Officers

In a significant move, the Kerala High Court has updated its dress code guidelines for women judicial officers in the state. The new guidelines, issued on October 7, offer female judicial officers more flexibility in their attire while still adhering to the court's traditional black-and-white dress code.

Until now, the mandated attire for women judicial officers primarily consisted of sarees and blouses. However, recognizing the need to adapt to changing climates and improve comfort, the Kerala High Court now allows women judicial officers to choose from various outfits.

The updated guidelines permit women judicial officers to opt for attire such as:

1. Saree with a Black Collar Blouse: This traditional outfit remains a viable choice for women judicial officers, with an emphasis on a black collar blouse, full or half sleeves, and stiff or soft bands and collars. The ensemble can be complemented with a black gown, as required.

2. Salwar Kameez: Women officers can now wear a white salwar with either full or half sleeves, featuring a high neck or collar. A white or black kameez with a modest fit, covering the ankles, is recommended. A black full-sleeved coat or a black vest with a soft or stiff collar and bands, along with gowns as needed, can be worn to complete the outfit.

3. Blouse/Shirt with Full-Length Trousers/Skirts: Another new option is a white full-sleeved high-neck blouse or shirt with a collar. This can be paired with modest full ankle-length trousers or skirts in black. As with the other choices, a black full-sleeved coat or black vest with a soft or stiff collar and bands, along with gowns, should be worn as required.

While expanding clothing choices, the Kerala High Court maintains a commitment to professionalism and dignity, emphasizing that the attire should remain "modest and simple and befitting the dignity of a judicial officer."

This change in dress code guidelines reflects a modernization effort aimed at providing women judicial officers with more practical and weather-appropriate clothing options. It also demonstrates a broader shift in various professions towards accommodating individual preferences while upholding established standards of professionalism and decorum.

Author: Anushka Taraniya

News Writer, MIT ADT University