First impressions go a long way, especially when having to face the media under a cloud of suspicion because you've been accused of running the biggest hedge fund insider-trading scheme ever, like in the case of Galleon Group’s Raj Rajaratnam and one of his fellow arrestees, Anil Kumar. Of course, you must consider appropriate mea culpa wear whenever bad publicity—due to criminal suits, civil suits, or agency investigations—is swirling around your company.

Knowing how to look your best when facing a grilling from the heartless prosecutor, attorney general, grand jury, regulator, or—heaven forbid—U.S. senator, can really ease the pain. Just look at what good style sense did for Bernie Madoff who managed to dupe investigators from the Securities and Exchange Commission for years. Or even former Enron chief Jeffrey Skilling who just last week won the right to bring his appeals case to the U.S. Supreme Court. And there's John Gotti, whose public image probably helped him slip through the net of justice on more than one occasion.

Bottom line, yes, it’s bad. You’d rather not be facing the world’s wrath, but you have no choice. So get ready to assemble your ready-to-wear contrition collection and to master a few style tips that will help you look your best as you face the harsh klieg lights of the court of public opinion.

1. If the Feds come for you, “it’s best to be arrested in a business suit,” says Bonnie Russell, founder of Personal Public Relations, in Del Mar, California. “Walk tall, head high, no swearing, and don’t kick the cameraman!”
2. Start with what’s appropriate professional attire for your industry. “If you’re a lawyer, wear a suit. If you’re a truck driver, wear a nice button-down,” says Kelly Machbitz of Image Consulting Professionals in Tampa. “Whether or not you’re guilty, you've already been perceived as a rule breaker, so it's key to show that you respect the fashion rules and abide by them.”
3. Don’t forget to dress for the moment. Think "Sunday best," says Machbitz. Leave the loud and flashy shirt in the closet. Ladies, button up that blouse, cleavage is a no-no. This is not a time to bring out fancy patterns because they wreak havoc on camera and register poorly on television.
4. Opt for somber colors. Blues, from light to navy, and grays—especially charcoal—are soothing, soft, and neutral. Most important is that they’re "apologetic" clothes that show contrition and are nonconfrontational. “Remember that blue is the color of sincerity,” Russell says.
5. Avoid power colors like red, which often represents passion and anger. White is out too; you’re no angel, and you know it. As to what colors to wear underneath the blazer, choose a pastel. It’s a subtle way to show personal style, but it doesn’t take away from your overall message. “Your outfit should say ‘I respect the audience,’” says Matt Montague, director of public relations for SMS, in Ithaca, New York.
6. Avoid going to meet the press with your shirtsleeves rolled up sans jacket, says Machbitz. “That’s what you do for happy hour on a Friday, not when you want to communicate to people that you want to improve, that you’re sorry.”
7. When is it time for black? “Black is the ultimate power color,” she says. Dust off the solid “it” suit when enough time has passed and you’re gearing up for a comeback tour. Add a light-colored shirt and a tasteful, solid tie. Just don’t forget a dash of contrition and a pinch of confidence.
8. Don’t try to dance around in fancy footwear. “Normal business shoes—black cap toes would be perfect, because they are neutral,” advises Sandy Dumont, an image consultant in Norfolk, Virginia. And wear solid-black socks as lighter colors create contrast with the suit and cause people to look down at your feet, she adds.
9. Keep accessories to a minimum and stay traditional. For women, that means pearls and studs. For men, that means a nice, but not too expensive, watch. “The diamond cufflinks and gold chains may go over well in Hollywood, but the public won’t be favorably impressed,” adds Barbara DesChamps in Nevada City, California. You don’t want people to tune out your words because they’re distracted by your bling. Adds Russell, a wedding ring is always a nice touch; and, if you’re a hometown boy (or gal), add a college ring.
10. Body language is important. Don’t cross your arms as it’s seen as both defensive and threatening, experts say. Look straight into the camera, but glance down once in a while. Avoid shifting your eyes or shifting your weight.
11. Watch the inflection of your voice. Practice ahead of time if you need to. Don’t give people a chance to laugh at the fact that your voice cracked—and dismiss you altogether.
12. For the most part, turn off the waterworks. While some can get away with it, the problem with getting teary-eyed is it leaves people wondering if you’re crying because you got caught or if you’re truly sorry, explains Robin Walker, an image consultant and style coach in Chicago.
13. Shave, style your hair, and wear clean clothes. “If you’re bald, spray antiperspirant deodorant on top of your head so it doesn't glare and so beads of sweat aren't noticeable,” Russell recommends.

No matter what, show that you’re taking control of the crisis and that you’re willing to go the distance to (now) do the right thing.