Women’s Interview Attire

What do I wear to the interview? It’s a question millions of people agonize over on some level while looking for a job. Unfortunately, most college grades and inexperienced job seekers are woefully under prepared with proper interview dress. They feel that they can simply wear what is already in their wardrobe. For women, this might be wearing the latest clothes in fashion with stylish handbags and heels.

But the truth is dressing for the world outside college is quite different from the campus scene. Stylish doesn’t necessary convey conservative. During an interview, your attire plays a supporting role on whether or not you will receive a job offer. Wearing well-fitted and appropriate attire will support your image as a person who takes the interview process seriously and understands the nature of the industry in which you are trying to become employed.

For those of you, who need a quick review of the basics, follow these guidelines for successful women’s interview attire:

• Suits- pants/ skirts

  Wear a two-piece matched suit, whether it is a jacket with a skirt or slacks. If you wear pants, they should be creased and tailored, not tight or flowing. By no means should you wear a dress or any clothes you would wear to a club.

• Skirt lengths

  If you decide to wear a skirt, it should cover your thighs when you are seated. Rule of thumb, don’t purchase a skirt based on its hem length on the hanger. You must sit in the skirt facing a mirror, in order to see if the skirt is at the appropriate length when you are seated. The skirt length should not be shorter than slightly above your knee and not fall lower than just below mid-calf. The problem with wearing a long skirt that is they may be either too billowy or too narrow to walk in.

• Color and Fabric

  You can’t go wrong with high quality suits in navy, dark gray, brown and black. Other color trends may come and go, but you should avoid these extremes. On an interview, women should choose a solid or very subtle weave pattern or plaid. Wool, wool blends and high quality blends and synthetics are appropriate for women’s suiting. Linen suites are not recommended because they tend not to wrinkle quickly.

• Shirts and sweaters

  Underneath the suit jacket, wear a tailored blouse in a color or small print that coordinates nicely with your suit. Always select blouses of high quality, color and styles that are complimentary to you and show no cleavage. A good quality knit shell is also appropriate to wear underneath your suit jacket.

• Jewelry and accessories

  Choose simple and conservative jewelry that enhance your attire. Avoid extremes of style and color. If your industry is creative, you may have more flexibility than someone pursuing a conservative industry, such as business. Wear a conservative watch, no more than one ring on each hand, and only one set of earrings.

• Cosmetics

  Keep make-up conservative, just plain simple and natural. The goal is to wear make-up without overly made up. Nails should be clean and well groomed—they can be colored with clear polish.

• Shoes

  Invest in a good pair of leather heels rather than those made from synthetic material. Choose closed-toe pumps that measure 2-3 inches in height. No stilettos or chucky platforms! Navy, black, cordovan and taupe are the recommended colors for heels.

• Hosiery

  Even on a hot summer day, you should still wear plainly styled, sheer or hosiery near your skin color (and no runs!!). Pack an extra pair of hosiery in your bag, in case you get a run.

• Purse and bag

  It’s always advisable to invest in leather accessories. Choose a classic, small and simple handbag rather than trendy ones. You should only carry necessary items (wallet, hairbrush, basic cosmetics, etc). You want to avoid your life history being revealed if you accidentally drop open your bag.

• Hair and perfume

  Since your hair is often your most noticed feature, invest in a hairstyle that is complimentary to your facial structure. Your hairstyle and color should give you a professional image. And if you decide to wear perfume, use it sparingly. Avoid having odor on your clothes and smelling like smoke.