The First Uniform: Grace @anunfilteredgrace on Navigating the Legal World & Building a Workwear Capsule

THE FIRST UNIFORM • ISSUE 02

Welcome to The First Uniform - an exclusive Miss Métier conversation series featuring emerging professionals and recent graduates navigating the raw, exciting, and sometimes daunting start of their careers. From landing the role and mastering the interview outfit to building a capsule wardrobe on a starting budget and earning a seat at the table with seasoned pros, we’re unpacking what it really takes to step into your power from day one. Today, Grace joins us to share her journey through the legal industry, her blueprint for an effortless essential wardrobe, and her guidance for rising leaders.

Follow Grace: Instagram & TikTok @anunfilteredgrace

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Miss Métier: Tell us about your current role, and what a day in your shoes looks like as you build the foundation of your career.

Grace: "I currently work as a Paralegal at a law firm, in a team specialising in international injury and travel-related cases. Alongside this, I am also an apprentice solicitor and am currently in the third year of a 6.5-year programme that will qualify me as a solicitor at the end.

I split my time between working from home and in the office, although I spend most of my time working remotely, which I really enjoy. No two days are the same, and my work can involve reviewing evidence from foreign lawyers and experts, identifying what further evidence is needed, analysing documents, and drafting court proceedings.

There are also regular meetings with clients, experts, and barristers. These are usually conducted virtually, although I occasionally attend meetings in person."

MM: Did entering your field demand a specific degree, or was it more about how you pitched your potential during the application process?

Grace: "I started my career in law over seven years ago through an apprenticeship as soon as I turned 18. While many of the people I work with have degrees, particularly law degrees, these are not essential for most entry routes into the profession, although this can vary depending on the employer and their requirements for the roles available.

Whilst previous experience can be valuable when applying for legal roles, it is equally important to demonstrate your potential and present yourself well throughout the application process. Even if you do not think your experience is directly relevant, most people can identify transferable skills from previous jobs, education, volunteering, or extracurricular activities that can be used to showcase their suitability for a role. I strongly believe that showing a positive and willing attitude can be invaluable in these circumstances."

MM: Take us back to the hiring process - what did the journey look like from your initial application to that final "you've got the job" moment?

Grace: "I have been through a couple of different hiring processes, firstly for my Paralegal role, which was relatively straightforward and involved a remote interview, and then later for my apprenticeship.

The apprenticeship process was much more intensive. It began with a series of application questions about my experience and why I believed I was a suitable candidate. This was followed by an in-person assessment day, which included five different tasks, such as drafting exercises, team-building activities, and interviews. The final stage was a formal interview.

Once the hiring decisions had been made, I received a phone call to let me know I had been successful. It is a moment I will never forget. It was about 4:55 pm on a Friday, and I had spent the entire day nervously waiting for the call. I think I actually cried when I got the news because I was so relieved and happy after what felt like forever waiting to hear the outcome!"

MM: First impressions matter. What was your interview ensemble, and how did it help you project confidence while remaining authentically you?

Grace: "One of my main priorities when choosing an outfit is comfort, as I am definitely not someone who can sit comfortably in clothing that is too tight, itchy, or restrictive.

I cannot remember the exact outfit I wore, but it would have been something along the lines of black straight-leg trousers, a smart fitted top, and a structured blazer. Whilst I know that a suit, blouse, or formal shirt may traditionally be viewed as the most professional option, those styles have never really felt like me.

For me, confidence comes from feeling comfortable and authentic. Choosing an outfit that was professional while still reflecting my personality helped me feel more relaxed and able to focus on the interview itself rather than what I was wearing."

MM: Curating a polished wardrobe on a starting salary is an art form. What are the 4 or 5 capsule staples that pull the ultimate weight in your weekly rotation?

Grace: "I am all about the basics! When I find a top or item of clothing that I really like, I usually end up buying it in every available colour. My wardrobe staples are a pair of black straight-leg work trousers with a flattering high waist, a plain fitted top in a neutral colour, and a structured blazer, ideally with a slightly cinched waist.

I also think a good-quality shoulder bag can completely pull an outfit together. Like the rest of my wardrobe, I tend to stick to neutral colours because they are versatile, timeless, and easy to mix and match throughout the week. I am in the process of building a capsule wardrobe and this definitely is reflected in my work staples."

"For me, confidence comes from feeling comfortable and authentic. Choosing an outfit that was professional while still reflecting my personality helped me feel more relaxed and able to focus on the interview."

MM: Do you believe dressing intentionally and/or professionally is crucial when starting out?

Grace: "I do believe that dressing intentionally and professionally is important when starting out, as first impressions are often influenced by how you present yourself. I think this can be used as a tool to help you start off on the right foot.

When you dress well and feel good about yourself, it can boost your confidence and encourage you to act more intentionally, which often leads to better outcomes. I think it is important to dress in a way that demonstrates thought and effort, whilst still remaining appropriate for the environment you are in.

However, I am also a huge believer in wearing what makes you feel comfortable, within reason! Stepping outside of your comfort zone can be a positive thing, but you still want to feel confident and authentic. For me, finding a balance between professionalism and personal comfort is key, and your clothing can play a big role in achieving that."

MM: For the ambitious graduate reading this who wants to make a memorable entrance into your industry, what is your ultimate piece of advice?

Grace: "My advice may sound simple, but it is incredibly valuable: say yes to opportunities whenever you can. Taking on new challenges is one of the best ways to build connections, develop your skills, and push yourself beyond your comfort zone. Both personally and professionally, some of my most rewarding experiences have come from opportunities I was initially hesitant to accept.

Even if you put yourself forward and are unsuccessful, people will remember your enthusiasm and willingness to get involved. Often, that can lead to unexpected opportunities further down the line."

Follow Grace: Instagram & Tiktok @anunfilteredgrace

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