Silks Day in London is a prestigious annual legal tradition where newly appointed King’s Counsel (KC)—formerly Queen’s Counsel (QC)—are sworn in, marking their elevation to the senior ranks of the legal profession. It is a highly ceremonial event steeped in history, often regarded as a “once-in-a-lifetime” milestone.  The term “taking silk” refers to the change in material of the gowns worn by senior barristers (King’s Counsel) compared to juniors.

The day involves the procession of ‘new silks’, accompanied by family, friends, and clerks, traveling between the Palace of Westminster and the Royal Courts of Justice.

Classic cars are generally hired by newly appointed ‘silks’ for this day, primarily to reflect the immense prestige, tradition, and historical significance of the occasion.  The ceremony involves dressing in traditional, formal legal attire (full-bottomed wigs, silk robes, and buckling shoes), making a vintage car a fitting way to arrive at the Palace of Westminster.

Here is why hiring a classic car is a staple of this legal tradition:

• Reflecting Tradition and Heritage: Silks Day is a proud, historic event within the UK legal community. The appointment is a long-standing tradition in English law.  A classic car acts as a continuation of that “old-world” prestige and ceremony.
• Celebrating a Major Milestone: Taking silk is considered the “holy grail” of a barrister’s career. As it marks the pinnacle of an advocate’s achievement, hiring a luxury or classic car is a way to mark the once-in-a-lifetime occasion.
• “Arriving in Style”: Following a year of intense, competitive, and rigorous selection, the arrival in a chauffeured classic car is a way for barristers to celebrate with their family and colleagues in style for a grand celebration before entering the Royal Courts of Justice.
• Symbolism of Success: Similar to a wedding, the day is designed to be a grand, memorable experience. The rarity and elegance of a classic car, such as a classical Rolls-Royce, complement the “elite” and high-status nature of the appointment.

Coopers of Goodwood is proud to have provided our chauffeur driven classical Rolls Royce cars for this historic event.

We wish all new silks the very best as they begin this new stage of their career.