Your primary goal in dressing for an interview is to feel great about the way you look while projecting an image that matches the requirements of the position and the organization. Some interviewers will decide in the first 60 seconds whether they are interested in you or not (based on personal impressions). Plan your interview attire in advance. Clothes should fit well, be clean and pressed; hair and nails should be well groomed. Some helpful guidelines for looking professional in the interview are listed below.
Men's Wardrobe
Suits: Two-piece, single breasted, conservative business suit in a traditional color, such as navy blue, black
or charcoal gray. Wool or wool blend, solid or thin pinstripes. Single vent, American-style cut.
Shirts: Simple style; white button-down or classic collar is preferred. The cuffs and collar should be the same
color as the body; stripes should be very subtle. Make sure your shirt is well-ironed, without wrinkles.
Socks: Calf-length. Patternless socks matching color of pants or shoes is suggested.
Shoes: Polished leather dress shoes that match the suit. Black lace-up shoes, cap toe, and wing tips are the
most conservative.
Ties: Made of silk and coordinate well with the suit. Suggested styles include a simple stripe or repeating
pattern; limit to three colors. Select a neutral background color, such as navy blue or maroon.
Jewelry: Limit to watch and one ring. Remove earrings or noticeable piercings! Belt should be leather and match or complement shoes, simple buckle.
Hair: Conservative hair style that does not distract from your goal to achieve an image of professional maturity. Avoid strong aftershave and cologne.
Women's Wardrobe
Suits: Long-sleeved jacket, straight or pleated skirt, in dark colors. Length just above knee, no mini's! Conservative styles are best.
Blouses: White or soft pastel colors. Avoid bold colors, dramatic prints or low-cut necklines. Material should
not look shiny or unnatural. Cotton or silk is ideal.
Collars: Fully buttoned. A scarf is acceptable if it is neither too bright nor displayed too prominently.
Stockings: Beige, tan or colors that match the skin tone.
Shoes: Simple pumps with one-to-two inch heels. Shoes should be high-quality leather, and color should
match suit and be polished.
Hair: Keep hair out of face in a conservative style that projects a professional image of maturity.
Jewelry: Watch and one ring on each hand and one bracelet if any. Post earrings only. Remove noticeable piercings!
Make-up: Subtle; no glitter or shimmery colors. No frosted or bright lipstick or eye shadow. Avoid excessively long nails and trendy or bold nail polish. Do not wear strong perfume or cologne.
Business Casual
Men's Wardrobe
• khakis, chino or gabardine trousers
• shirts with collars (polo-style or button down)
• sweater with collared shirts underneath
• loafers with colored socks
Women's Wardrobe
• slacks, skirts or city shorts (top of the knee) with coordinating tops
• a jacket, sweater or blouse to finish the outfit
• flat leather shoes with coordinating trouser socks or hose
It is true that workers are no longer conducting business as usual in some environments regarding what is worn to work. Are you meeting with customers or making a presentation? Show professional respect by choosing to dress casual on another occasion. Also, be sure to choose clothing that fits your body type properly and comfortably. Finally choose colors and styles that are traditional - they never go out of style!
Adapted from Letitia Baldrige's New Complete Guide to Executive Manners; The Business Causal Dress Code written by Mary Lou Andre for msn.com.
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