It is my honor to introduce Her Honor, Judge Heather Coyle to Takeover Tuesday! An Oklahoma native who choose the University of Oklahoma as the home for both her undergraduate and law school education, Judge Coyle is definitely “Sooner Born and Sooner bred.” In her early career, Heather Coyle faithfully served for twenty years as an Assistant District Attorney in Oklahoma County. Those years of dedicated service and sacrifice allowed her to blossom into the servant leader better known as Judge Heather Coyle, District Judge for District 7, office 8, in Oklahoma County.

When Judge Coyle isn’t fashionably ruling the court room, she enjoys living the philanthropist life. She is involved within numerous foundations, but, most notably, is a founding member of Waytable; a program serving at-risk youth. With her “find your fashion” and servant leadership mindset I’m excited for our newest Takeover Tuesday Contributor to guide us through her adventure of boss looks. All Rise for Maz Modern’s Judge Heather Coyle!

I am flattered to be asked by Katherine to contribute to this fashion blog. This is absolutely OUT of my comfort zone since putting others first is what I do, but Katherine showed me that sometimes we must be pushed a little out of our comfort zones. That’s how we grow as individuals.

How many times have we heard the phrase “Dress for Success”? To me, it never gets old.

I also love the phrases, “you feel how you look” or “how you dress can make you feel better”. Believe me, I totally understand as a working mom and wife, some days are harder than others to bring these phrases to life, but you only get one chance to make a first impression. Because of this, it is important to make that first impression a good one.

My role as a judge puts me in an interesting position where no one really sees what I’m wearing each day because most days I’m wearing a judicial robe. While black is not my go-to color, the honor of the robe is beyond measure. Most don’t see what I’m wearing since the robe covers all, but that doesn’t stop me from caring about the outfit underneath. Even while fully covered “en robe”, I am deliberate and excited to get ready each morning to be “en vogue”.

I have always had a love for fashion and shopping. I really enjoy finding that perfect outfit, handbag, shoe, or accessory, especially if it’s on sale! I always try to be mindful of the fashion audience and deliberate about the message of the total outfit from head to toe. That is usually where I begin the outfit build.

Keep It Fun

Let’s talk suits. A suit for a trial is a must. When you are appearing in the courtroom it is important to look professional. A suit does not imply a lack of fashion, rather, there are many shades of suits with amazing fabrics available today, and when matched with the perfect blouse and shoes, will werk in the trial setting. There are many ways to make your suit fashionable and exciting to wear, however, when choosing a suit, I usually gravitate towards a classic black suit.

For fun, I choose a different textured blouse, a pop of color or design, a sweater, or I accent the suit with jewelry or a unique shoe. My black suit by Calvin Klein is paired with a lush green puff sleeve crepe top by CeCe from Nordstrom. I am wearing the black/clear cendi pump from Schutz. My handbag is an animal print tote by Clare V from Nordstrom. Even as a servant leader, I still like to express my style.

I wear a suit when I’m in a jury trial even though no one sees it underneath my robe. It is a privilege and an honor to be in the practice of law and be a member of the judiciary. Holding on to that tradition in professional style is important as it sends a strong statement of preparedness and professionalism, and in that outfit, I feel it. Also it shows respect to the jurors and all involved in the criminal justice system. For me, “how you dress is how you feel” and, in a suit, I feel professional and prepared.

However, when I’m not in trial, I like to mix it up a bit and be more creative in my attire. Being a professional and a Mom, I am ALWAYS on the move. It’s important to be able to transition my outfit when needed to something for casual settings. As a newer mom, I did once find myself in my suit and heels running the baseball diamond with my son, trying to convince him to run the bases on his own. Do your best to prepare and NOT have to do that! Whatever your day demands, plan a transitional outfit to fit the day

Poppin With Color

I find the end of summertime an especially perfect time to be creative with my outfits. I love color, and I think it’s important to find colors you feel comfortable wearing. I chose a bright blue eyelet puffed sleeved button-down blouse from Anthropologie, with a colorful skirt, Maeve brand from Anthropologie, paired with a red Gucci belt from Gucci, and Sam Edelman tan pumps from Sam Edelman or Nordstrom. My bag is a wonderful white Goyard large tote and perfect for mom work/life because everything I need can fit inside. You never know what you might find in this bag…. various kids snacks or fidget toys, a change of shoes, pencils, my red lipstick…

Now, this is the part I mentioned earlier about being prepared for the transition: this look can take you from day to evening. You can go straight to a meeting or dinner with family or friends or even an activity for your kids. If going to an outdoor sporting event for your children you can always make a few adjustments to fit the event. You can also switch out your skirt for a pair of jeans and grab those tennis shoes from your large bag. The jeans worn are Vigoss brand from Nordstrom and the tennis shoes are Golden Goose from Neiman Marcus. Any jeans, pants, flats or tennis shoes will work.

Wearing a colorful outfit truly does brighten my day and allows me to begin my day with a fresh, positive attitude. Attitude is everything, and transitioning to a positive one is always recommended

Personal Fashion Rules My Style

Who doesn’t love animal print? Chetah happens to be one of my favorite prints and to me it’s timeless. My dress is J. McLaughlin brand paired with navy heels from Tahari. You can always transition this outfit and make it more casual with flats, a wedge sandal or tennis shoes. I used the same white Goyard bag (to ensure I’m equipped for any occasion, of course!).

Wearing Black in and out of the Courtroom

Next, everyone needs a LBD (little black dress). There are many things you can do with a black dress, no matter the style. My dress is Donna Morgan from Nordstrom and I’ve had it for several years. It is timeless and versatile. It can be worn during the day as a professional, but, it’s all about the shoes and accessories. I chose to pair my black dress with animal print pumps by Sam Edelman, a black Goyard small tote that still fits my gear, and bracelets are from Frieda Rothman and animal print dangles from Uncommon James.

My husband, Billy, gave me the STRENGTH bracelet for Mother’s Day a few year ago, which I love. As women we all need a little encouragement and reminder of why we do what we do. We need strength to do our jobs and do them well, to be the best mom, wife, daughter, sister and friend. It’s a daily reminder to look for the inner strength to be my best.

This black dress can also be transitioned into an evening event with just a change of the shoes and handbag. I paired the black dress with timeless black peep toe Christian Louboutin pumps with a Gucci handbag.

My second evening look is paired with animal print studded pumps by Christian Louboutin, and a black leather handbag by Diane von Furstenberg. If the event takes you outdoors, I pair my look with black Valentino sunglasses and red lipstick.

I have found over the years that I prefer to invest in timeless shoes, handbags and accessories. I believe you really get what you pay for so when it comes buying shoes, handbags and accessories it’s worth investing a little more. Some of my favorite above mentioned items I’ve had for almost 10 or 20 years. It’s really all about what you love for yourself. Fashion style is very unique to the individual. I realize my style may not be for everyone but I think it is important as women to respect everyone’s unique style.

With all of my looks you can substitute for very similar items that you can buy almost at any clothing store or boutique at a variety of price ranges. I often find that perfect top or accessory at Target. Who doesn’t love Target?

“Dress for Success” all goes back to if you look good, you will feel good about yourself. It’s important to find the style that works for you and gives you confidence even when you are feeling a little “without it”. And a positive attitude paired with fashion can brighten your day and can be contagious. Encourage that in each other. Always be professional, prepared, positive, and KIND. It is important to embrace everyone’s unique style. As Maya Angelou once said: “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget the way someone made you feel.” Thank you to Katherine for forcing me out of my comfort zone and sharing my perspective. Go find your fashion!