How to dress tastefully for a job interview

Dress for success! Wearing the right outfit when interviewing can make or break your chance at getting the job. Learn what to do and what not to do when suiting up for your next interview.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. The Suit
   
   The most basic, and assumed, part of the interview wardrobe is the suit. Never wear a suit that is bold or too dressy (pinstripes, heavy patterns). Instead, opt for a dark navy or dark charcoal suit. A black suit will suffice for an interview, but in some instances, it can be considered too formal. Always make sure your suit is recently pressed/dry cleaned and fits well. If you don't have a good suit, check out my article on how to select a perfect fitting suit:
   
   http://www.ehow.com/how_4406477_perfect-fitting-suit.html

2. The Shirt
   
   In accordance with dressing conservatively for your interview, wear a basic white or light, business-blue dress shirt. Avoid a shirt with French cuffs when interviewing, as this can often seems too flashy or formal. Make sure that your shirt matches your suit and, like above, make sure the shirt has been recently dry-cleaned.

3. The Tie
   
   If you have dressed in a conservative looking shirt and tie, you can add some personality when it comes to selecting a tie. However, keeping with our conservative theme, leave your piano key necktie in your closet and select a tie with a solid color theme. You can certainly have some pattern in your tie, but make sure that there is one unifying theme/color. If you wear a white or blue shirt, a red or yellow tie will work best and look the most modest.

4. Other Details
   
   Match your shoes with your belt. If you wear a charcoal suit, wear a black belt with black shoes. If you wear a navy suit, wear dark brown or dark burgundy shoes and belt.
   
   Match your socks to your pants. Don't overlook any small details like this; a company is looking for someone that will show attention to detail, and making a first impression is your first step towards being a valuable part of their company.
   
   Avoid using too much cologne or aftershave. You don't want to overpower your interviewers with a heavily scented cologne.
   
   Limit your jewelry. In fact, don't wear any earrings, necklaces, or bracelets to your interview.
   
   Make sure your fingernails are well trimmed and you are well groomed in general.

Tips & Warnings

• The handshake could be the most important part of the interview. Shake firmly, but not too firmly tough guy!