Curtis Mallet-Prevost Memo to Troops: No Chest Hair or Club Wear

For those who might be in doubt, Curtis Mallet-Prevost Colt & Mosle has sent an internal memo to the New York-based international law firm's United States attorneys and paralegals, reminding them that a traditional standard of dress continues to apply even on summer business casual days.

But the memo itself is a breath of fresh air for those accustomed to standard-issue business prose. After advising the guys that simply taking off their ties fills the business casual bill (and, for those with "a wild streak," doffing their jackets is also an option), it goes on to point out that a display of chest hair is to be avoided at all costs. It further suggests that "the mature man" would do well to stay with figure-flattering American-cut shirts and business suits.

When it reaches the more dangerous territory of appropriate attire for women, however, the memo—which was published by Above the Law—avoids the obvious pitfalls that specificity can present, noting the need for circumspection.

"In brief, save it for the clubs or the beach," the memo advises. "If you have any doubt whether an item of apparel is appropriate, it most assuredly is not."

Related earlier coverage:

ABAJournal.com: "Male Judges Advise Women Lawyers to Lose the Distracting ‘Ally McBeal’ Look"