Melissa Atkins Discusses Philadelphia’s Shift to Relaxed Dress Codes in Law Firms

In a June 18, 2025, article from The Philadelphia Inquirer, titled “Philadelphia’s employers are loosening work dress codes,” Melissa Atkins, a labor and employment partner at Obermayer, discussed how Philadelphia employers have been relaxing their dress codes since the pandemic. This trend is even making its way into law firms, which have traditionally had more formal attire standards.

Atkins highlighted that many law firms are moving away from the traditional full suits and uncomfortable dress shoes. “Instead, we see people choose comfort over formality, with sneakers, sport coats, polos, joggers, khakis, and button-downs taking over,” she said. “Less often do I see people in ties—unless headed to court or meeting new or high-profile clients.”

While the casual dress trend is widespread, Atkins emphasized that some situations still require more formal attire.

“For lawyers, the courtroom may still call for a suit and tie,” she explained. “And in the corporate world, there’s still a time and place for business-formal wear.”

“For example, if someone’s heading to a networking event or an external meeting, you’ll still see suits or more formal business attire,” Atkins added. “Job interviews are another time when a suit makes sense.”

Read the full article here.

(Left to Right) Lawyers Michael Pepperman, Melissa K. Atkins, and Erika Miller. Photo by Jessica Griffin / Staff Photographer, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Melissa Atkins. Photo by Jessica Griffin / Staff Photographer, The Philadelphia Inquirer