Barristers’ wigs are the latest front in the war on the eccentricity and traditions that make this country unique, says James Price “What do ties matter, Jeeves, at a time like this?” ...

This is my Grand-father's wig that he wore when he was a Barrister. It is a 'half wig' made of horse hair. He defended lots of people such as the artist Francis Bacon and one of the 'Guildford Four'.

Although this tradition might seem as ancient as the British court itself, wigs didn’t make an appearance in courtroom clothing right up until the 17th century. In fact, if a barrister were to ...

Barristers are not required to wear wigs, traditionally made of horsehair, in all courtrooms. Since 2007, they have not been required in family, civil or Supreme Court cases .

At one time the solicitor appearing in open court wore a robe but the barrister wore a robe and a horsehair wig, but the wig is now being abolished. (Note that in British English defence is spelt ...