A white lab coat. The uniform staple for doctors is universally recognized and is said to symbolize professionalism, integrity, care, and attentiveness. While the use of lab coats in clinical settings varies from institution to institution, the tradition of white coats (as lab coats are known in the industry) is very much alive and well in our medical schools.

What is the tradition behind lab coat length?

The length of a person’s lab coat is often an indicator of his or her position within the hospital hierarchy. Short coats (typically hip-length) are generally worn by medical students and residents. The lab coats are presented to students in a meaningful, symbolic white coat ceremony, and is considered a very significant event in the aspiring doctor’s journey. When someone becomes a licensed physician, white coats are upgraded to a full-length coat as an outward, visual symbol of their accomplishment. Some establishments have a tradition of keeping all doctors in short coats to symbolize a lifetime commitment to learning.

Which medical professionals wear lab coats?

Below are a few examples of medical professional that typically wear lab coats:

• Doctors
• Nurses / Nurse Managers
• Pharmacists
• Lab Technicians
• Veterinarians

Benefits of Wearing Lab Coats

• Easily identified by colleagues and/or patients
• Stay comfortable and clean
• Pockets offer ample storage for small items and medical accessories

The white lab coat is a tradition – an iconic symbol. Wear it with pride. You earned it. For an even more personalized touch, you can purchase embroidered lab coats.

We rounded up a handful of our best-selling favorites for you below.

Butter-Soft Scrubs by UA™ Women’s Lab Coat

UA Butter-Soft STRETCH Jewel Neck Consultation Lab Coat

Dickies Unisex Lab Coat

UA Ladies’ Lab Coat

Grey’s Anatomy Men’s Lab Coat

Butter-Soft Scrubs by UA™ 3/4 Sleeve Lab Coat

Grey’s Anatomy Scrubs Junior 3 Pocket Lab Coat

Grey’s Anatomy Women’s Belted Lab Coat

Koi Scrubs Women’s Geneva Lab Coat

UA Men’s 3/4 Length Lab Coat

Grey’s Anatomy Scrubs Signature Women’s STRETCH 3/4 Sleeve Lab Coat

Dickies Gen Flex Youtility Lab Coat

Grey’s Anatomy Scrubs Signature STRETCH Women’s 3 Pocket Lab Coat

Barco ICU Women’s 5-Pocket Lab Coat

Shop our high quality lab coats here. Tell us about your favorite white coat story in the comments and share your lab coat looks with us on Instagram, tag @uniformadvantage and #adayinscrubs!