Lawyers With Style: Linda K. Myers
Linda K. Myers
Photos by David Durochik.
Linda K. Myers, 48, leads Kirkland & Ellis' debt finance practice and is a member of the firm's 15-member global management committee. She is a nationally recognized corporate partner who focuses her practice on debt financing transactions for private equity groups, commercial lending institutions and major private and public companies.
1. What's your favorite store to shop for work clothes?
Nordstrom. I shop with Carrie Schwebl, who manages the collectors department. She will find sale pieces for me, keeps track of what I own, makes recommendations on items to round out my wardrobe and looks for pieces that "travel well" — she is incredibly customer service-oriented.
2. If you are meeting with a new client or have your first day in court or at a transactional meeting, what's your favorite "power outfit"?
It really depends on the type of client meeting in which I am involved. For example, a bank syndication meeting in New York on behalf of a borrower client is very different than a meeting I might have with a private equity client or hedge fund that has a business casual policy at its office. In general, however, I always strive for a classic, professional and elegant look, and to be comfortable.
3. What brand is your watch?
I rarely wear one but when I do, I wear an Ebel, which was an anniversary gift from my husband.
4. In one or two words, how would you describe your style?
Professional, yet feminine.
5. What do you wear on weekends?
On weekends, we run around a lot with our kids. We attend a fair number of philanthropic functions and, when possible, try to have a Saturday date night. So my weekend wardrobe ranges from work-out clothes to jeans to ball gowns.
6. What's your favorite brand of jeans?
I have two — Joe's and 7 For All Mankind.
7. Whose style do you admire?
Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis. Also, two of my partners at Kirkland: Vicki Hood and Leslie Smith, both of whom have impeccable style and grace.
8. What was the first expensive piece of clothing that you purchased when you became a lawyer?
A long, cashmere, winter coat.
9. What is your No. 1 style pet peeve?
When the fit of clothing is a distraction.
10. Who is your favorite designer?
Tough question because I go through phases and really look for the beauty in pieces, not in the labels. I like Alexander McQueen's edge, the femininity of Valentino and Dior and Céline's understated cool-chic. Right now, I seem to be partial to Dolce & Gabbana.
11. What advice do you have for a lawyer trying to improve his or her professional style?
Have a good base of classics and add an occasional interesting/trendy piece to mix it up and have a little fun with your work look. It improves your confidence level if you feel well put together.
12. Why should lawyers care about their style?
To a significant degree, lawyers are in the "sales" business and your appearance is part of an overall package that you are "selling," whether to clients, colleagues, judges, juries or recruits. A polished look communicates that you are someone who will use care and pay attention to details in your professional responsibilities.