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You had hoped that you and your spouse would be able to finalize your divorce in a swift and amicable fashion. You want what’s best for your children, and you thought your ex did too. Now, your ex is suing you for sole child custody, and you want to convince the Louisiana family court judge to deny the request. If you want to win a custody case, you must be prepared to demonstrate that you are a confident, capable and loving parent who has your children’s best interests in mind.

The judge will closely observe and consider everything you say and do in court, and your goal is to make a positive impression. Keep in mind that your appearance, including clothing, is a key factor. It’s best to visit the court’s website ahead of proceedings, to check if there’s a dress code posted. Even if there isn’t, there are certain clothing and style options you’ll want to avoid if your goal is to win the court’s favor in a child custody case.

Clothing choices that could cost you a victory in a child custody case

If the judge sees you enter the courtroom in certain types of clothing, not only will it hurt your case, but it might also be cause for expulsion (the judge kicking you out of the room). Such items include shorts, any type of hat or cap and shirts or jackets with profanity or offensive text or images. The following list include additional items to avoid when you’re appearing in court. Even if the judge doesn’t order you out of the courtroom, these styles will not make a positive impression:

• Spaghetti straps or strapless tops or dresses
• Stiletto heels
• Overly tight or overly baggy clothing
• Clothing you’d wear to the gym
• Low-cut tops or dresses
• Mini skirts or dresses
• Crop tops
• Sneakers, sandals or flip-flops
• Beach attire
• Sunglasses
• Lots of accessories or “bling”
• Blue jeans, especially with rips, shreds or holes

If you wear sunglasses because of a medical diagnosis, you’ll want to bring the issue to the court’s attention ahead of proceedings. It’s best to leave the rest of these clothing items in your closet at home because they are not appropriate for the courtroom.

Clothing choices that will make a positive impression

Instead of the items and styles listed in the previous section, consider the options shown here instead:

• Dress pants
• Collared, long-sleeved shirts with buttons
• A suitcoat and tie
• Flat dress shoes or shoes with low heel
• Skirt or dress that falls to or below the knee
• Minimal jewelry or accessories
• Closed-toe shoes
• Attire that is appropriate for business or an important meeting

In addition to these clothing items, be mindful of your overall appearance, including hygiene. Avoid extreme-looking styles like blue hair or lots of piercings and tattoos. If this is your usual look, try to downplay it by wearing clothes that cover your tattoos or removing some of your piercings.

Your hair (including facial hair, if applicable) should be clean and neatly groomed. Your goal is to create an appearance that demonstrates that you understand the solemness of child custody proceedings and the respect due to the judge and the court.