What to Wear to a Job Interview

Traditional White-Collar Industries

In most traditional white-collar industries, like finance or accounting, a professional business dress is appropriate. A conservative suit, meaning a solid color (navy, gray, black or brown) or a tiny pinstripe, is best.  Add some interest to a solid color suit with a stripe or print shirt and scarf at the neck. If you choose a pin stripe suit, a solid color blouse and a scarf will work best.

A pearl necklace and/or just a pair of pearl stud earrings are always in good taste. The skirt should be knee length and shoes should be the same color as your suit with 2 ½ to 3 inch heels.

If you are going back for more than one interview the same suit is fine, but wear a different blouse and accessories. The way you present your self is very important and a good first impression might mean getting that second interview.  A classic suit is an investment; so purchase a quality one that you can wear for many years.

Should you wear a pantsuit? A suit with a skirt gives a feminine impression. If you are short, overweight or have heavy or bad legs, a pant suit is probably a better choice.

A different color jacket is good if you are very tall. However, you will appear less formal if you are not careful. 

Creative Fields

There may be more confusion about what to wear for job interviews in more creative fields, like advertising, public relations, graphic design and information technology.  If you are being interviewed for a job in one of these industries it is alright to ask about dress codes when setting up the interview. It is also a good idea to check out the company's website for hints as to what people are wearing or ask someone that works for the company. For these interviews, it is always better to error on the conservative side.  A casual classic look in good taste might be a navy blazer with a khaki skirt (knee length) and a blue & white or red & white stripe shirt with a red, white & blue scarf at the neck (tucked in your shirt collar). Also, tailored slacks and shirt with a scarf at the neck looks good with a cardigan sweater or jccket.

Other Must Do's:

Strive for a clean and neat appearance.

Be prepared: plan ahead and try on your outfit before you get the interview.

Wear clothes that are not be too tight or baggy; see your tailor for the perfect fit.

Wear shined leather shoes, closed toe pumps are the best choice.

Your handbag must be in proportion to your size,
leather is best and the color should match your shoes.

Wear flesh / neutral color stockings for a more polished look..

Have a flattering (simple) hair style and well groomed finger nails with clear or no polish.

Go light with the make-up and

Forget the perfume.

Casual Suit

         It's better to be under dressed than overdressed!

 Professional
Business Dress

Pin Stripe

Less Formal

Pearl Studs

Classic Pump

Creative Fields

Classic Navy Blazer

Tailored Slacks

Pin Stripe Shirt