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‘What’s the verdict on ear piercings for men in City law firm offices?

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By Legal Cheek on

7

About to start TC


In our latest Career Conundrum, a soon-to-be trainee solicitor asks whether it’s acceptable for men to wear earrings in the office.

“I recently saw your last CC asking for general advice at the start of a TC, and it made me think about my own conundrum. I’m about to start my own TC at a reasonably sized city/international firm. I also have two small earrings which I rarely if ever take out. What’s the verdict on facial/ear piercings for men in City firm offices? Thanks for any advice/clarity.”

If you have a career conundrum, email us at tips@legalcheek.com.

7 Comments

US guy

Small ear piercings = fine. Other than at the most traditional of firms I don’t think anyone will bat an eyelid.

Face piercings = somewhat more controversial, and it really depends on how discreet it is. Potential for mixed responses – most people won’t care but some will consider them inappropriate.

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(3)(1)

Alex R.

As someone with three piercings in one ear, a reverse scaffold piercing in the other, and a nose stud working in a large, international firm. It has never been commented on or impacted my job, whether seeing Clients or in Court.

If it doesn’t impact your ability to work, it shouldn’t be remotely relevant. Piercings and tattoos are very commonplace and I don’t think people should limit individuality, particularly where it doesn’t change how they work.

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(4)(1)

boring

Why is this even being asked in 2025 🙄

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(2)(2)

Real World Calling

If you have to ask the question, you know the answer is don’t do it.

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(7)(1)

Woke pierced man

Clearly no justified objection to small ear piercings on anyone these days.

It’s almost certain to be sex discrimination to have an issue as anyone who had an issue is unlikely to be able to show they had ever raised an issue with ear piercings a woman.

I’m a 7PQE cis man and have two lobe piercings. Have had some odd looks but no issues.

The City is way more liberal these days but there are still plenty of dicks about. It shouldn’t be this way, but I’d still consider removing my piercings for an interview. I’d put them back in once I started.

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(2)(1)

anon

I work in a large international firm and have a ring in my left ear – never received any comments on it

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(0)(0)

Twanger

It’s all about impression.

If you’re happy making that impression, then good luck to you.

After all, it is all about you…

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(2)(0)

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