Every event in life warrants an appropriate or acceptable way of dress. But what about the occasional happenings that don’t exactly have dressing guidelines spelled out? Job interviews for example, do not come with explicit dress code instructions. To make it easier for you next time you have a job interview, here are the basics of the unspoken code that will help you get dressed for success.
Work Related Event Basics:
- Make sure garments are tailored to fit your body and are not too loose or tight in any areas.
- Closed-toe shoes are a must for the corporate world. Either flats or heels will suffice. If you can handle a heel, opt for a dark leather shoe with a slightly pointed-toe with a heel no higher than 3.5”.
- Clean manicured fingernails with a classic polish in neutral, light pink or dark red are best.
- Hair should be worn down or in a clean up-do (no ponytails, please), pulled off of your face, clean, and with minimal frizz. Try a moisturizing cream to keep flyways down.
Dressing for Your Interview:
Making a great first impression on a potential employer with your appearance is one of the most important things, second only to coming completely prepared. It is human nature to pass judgments upon first meeting someone and you only get one chance to make a good first impression. Everything from the fabrics, colors, prints and personal grooming you put into your look plays a role in making this happen. This could mean the difference between landing or losing out on that dream job. No matter the nature of the work, a candidate dressed in the most professional manner will shine over one that is casually dressed every time.
- Studies have shown that navy blue is the best color to wear to a job interview because it inspires confidence. You are more likely to get the job when you wear navy blue to an interview than any other color.
- Try pairing your suit with a colored blouse in shades of red, pink, purple or green. Depending on your preference each color will speak highly of your character. (See my recent post about colors here.) Don’t forget your blazer!
- Do not wear jersey fabrics (t-shirt material) and choose fabrics that have more structure and class such as cotton or chiffon. Choosing sturdier fabrics will speak of your attention to detail and create an outfit that looks pulled together.
- If you’re wearing a skirt, go for a slimming pencil skirt. The skirt should be long enough to sit down in comfortably without having to constantly readjust yourself. Pencil skirts are pretty standard in the corporate world; but you can dress yours up with a thin colored belt at the waist in a complimenting hue or print. If you’re daring or going on a fashion industry interview go for leopard print or a bold color.
- Limit your accessories to stud earrings, a smart looking watch, and choose between a simple necklace or delicate bracelet, nothing thick or that makes noise when you move. You want the focus to be on you not your accessories.
- Minimal makeup with a neutral eye will allow the interviewer to focus on you and what you have to say much better than something flashy. Don’t leave your lips bare – adding even just a small bit of color will go a long way. Skip the gloss and go straight for the lipstick.
Preparing for a job interview can be stressful at times, especially when you’re deciding on what to wear. Take these quick tips as a guideline for picking out a powerful outfit that will help you get the job. What’s your best tip for preparing for an interview? Comment below!
