I hesitated to write this piece, fearing it might sound like the musings of a grumpy retired cop. But my intent is not to criticize; it’s to mentor and encourage, shedding light on a professional standard often overlooked in law enforcement: the importance of appearance. This is especially important when serving victims of sexual assault, domestic violence, stalking and child abuse.
A recent speaking engagement at an international conference reminded me of this value. Despite 31 hours of travel, I found myself ironing my dress shirt the night before my presentation. It wasn’t vanity — it was habit, forged early in my career.
When I began policing in 1998 in Atlanta, Georgia, we were woefully underpaid. As a recruit, I earned $22,803 a year, with an insufficient uniform stipend. Yet, I’ll never forget Senior Patrol Officer Patrick Barr, my academy training officer. He was always impeccably dressed — tailored uniforms, sharp creases, properly pinned lapels and boots polished to a mirror shine.
I later learned he paid out of pocket to maintain that professional image. But it worked. When Officer Barr entered a room, he commanded respect. His sharp appearance projected confidence and competence, setting the tone for professionalism. It resonated deeply with me.
Despite tight finances, I prioritized my uniform and boots, following his example. Initially, my focus wasn’t about looking good but staying alive. Studies by the FBI’s Law Enforcement Officers Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program — such as Killed in the Line of Duty (1993), In the Line of Fire (1997) and Violent Encounters (2006) — emphasized the importance of projecting a professional image to deter potential attacks. Even as a skinny 21-year-old recruit, I knew that looking sharp could make an aggressor think twice.
Later in my career with the New York State Police, I saw this value institutionalized. Troopers were provided with high-quality uniforms laundered by quartermasters. Standards were strict: matching long or short sleeves, coordinated winter gear and an impeccable dress uniform for formal occasions. These expectations ensured a sharp, unified appearance.
When I was promoted to investigator, the dress code evolved — shirt, tie and sport coat for men, business attire for women, and full suits for court or formal appearances. While some colleagues adhered to these standards more rigorously than others, the overall impression was clear: professionalism mattered. As one Trooper put it, “You know the Bureau of Criminal Investigation is here because they look like a million bucks.”
In recent years, however, I’ve observed a shift. Some agencies have adopted more casual attire, such as polo shirts, beards, visible tattoos and even baseball caps. While these choices may offer tactical advantages, they can unintentionally hinder rapport-building, particularly in sensitive cases involving trauma survivors.
Listen to Gordon Graham discuss the value of professional dress for law enforcement:
For me, dressing well was always part of my mindset: This disclosure is an honor for me to receive. This is a serious event, deserving of a serious law enforcement response. I am the right person for the job.
Upon my retirement, I was fortunate to receive many kind compliments from colleagues, peers and supervisors. Each meant a great deal to me, but one moment stood out above the rest. As I received my retirement shield from my union delegate, he turned to the room and said, “Look at Matt. This is what a Senior Investigator looks like.”
That simple statement resonated deeply. It affirmed that my commitment to professionalism, in both conduct and appearance, had not gone unnoticed. To this day, it serves as a reminder of how much our presence and presentation matter, not just to victims and the public but also to our peers.
As law enforcement agencies struggle with recruitment and retention, I encourage officers to hold themselves to a personal standard of excellence, starting with physical appearance. Fitness, grooming and dress form the foundation of first impressions — and first impressions matter.
Dressing sharply does more than build trust with victims; it inspires confidence within your team and reinforces your role as a leader in the profession. A polished, professional image conveys that you take the work seriously and that you’re prepared to handle the gravity of the situations you face.
By looking sharp, you not only project confidence and competence but also honor the gravity of the work you do. In every encounter, especially with survivors, your professionalism can help build trust and set the tone for a positive, effective response.
Whether you’re in a patrol uniform or a tailored suit, your appearance reflects your dedication to your craft and your respect for the people you serve. Strive to uphold that standard, not out of vanity, but as a reflection of the honor it is to do this work.
