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Why do doctors wear white coats and lawyers wear black robes? We guarantee you don't know the answer..
Shikha Saxena | January 31, 2026 4:15 PM CST

We have all always seen doctors wearing white coats and lawyers wearing black coats. But has it ever crossed your mind why doctors wear white and lawyers wear black coats?  It's not just about fashion; there's an interesting history, psychological reasons, and a deeper meaning behind it. That's why these colors were chosen very thoughtfully for doctors and lawyers in our country.

The white color for doctors and black for lawyers reflects the seriousness and responsibilities of their professions, which also increases people's trust in them. So, let's find out why doctors wear white and lawyers wear black coats and what history is hidden behind these colors.

The Tradition of Wearing Black Coats Began Here
Lawyers wear black coats to practice law. The tradition of lawyers wearing black coats is not new; it has been going on for centuries. It dates back to the 17th century when, after the death of King Charles II of Britain, lawyers and judges there wore black clothes to express their grief. Gradually, this became a tradition, and today it has become a dress code in most countries of the world. In India too, wearing a black coat has been made mandatory for lawyers since 1961.

Why Do Lawyers Wear Black Coats?
For lawyers, the black coat is not just a dress code; it represents the seriousness and power of their profession. Black also symbolizes justice, impartiality, and discipline. Another special thing about the color black is that it portrays the lawyer's profession as powerful and disciplined, which helps people trust the legal system. Besides, black was also chosen for lawyers because this color doesn't get dirty easily, ensuring that lawyers always look professional.

The History of the White Coat
You might be surprised to know that before the 19th century, doctors wore black coats, not white ones. However, since the 19th century, doctors have been wearing white coats to project a professional image and build trust among patients. This color instills confidence in patients and provides them with a sense of mental peace.

Why do doctors wear white coats?
White is considered a symbol of purity, cleanliness, and trust. Wearing this color helps build confidence in patients, assuring them that the doctor will treat their illness properly. Another major reason is that seeing a doctor in a white coat has a positive effect on the patient's mental state, providing them with peace of mind and making them feel safe in the hospital environment.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Dainik Jagran. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.


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