How to Dress for an Interview as a Woman

Deciding what to wear to an interview can be frustrating when you want to make a great impression, while maintaining your personal fashion style. The interview is your opportunity to present yourself in a positive way in order to win over your potential employer, so the way you dress is especially important. Take the time to create a professional look without compromising your fashion or personal integrity.

Instructions

1. Survey the landscape. Use your time before the interview to see what other women in the office are wearing. If possible, scout the workplace for several days in order to get the best possible picture of the fashion scene. If possible, obtain a copy of the office dress code to prepare yourself for the interview. Although you’re not an employee just yet, it’s important to show that you’re able to fit well within the established office system.

2. Watch your hemlines. Although your new miniskirt looks fabulous on you, it is not the best choice to wear to an interview. Many offices have guidelines regarding acceptable lengths for skirts and dresses. Play it safe with dress and skirt lengths until you know the specific acceptable measurements. To be safe, choose lengths that are no more than 2 inches above your knees.

3. Leave your cleavage covered. While your interview attire doesn’t have to whisper Marry Poppins, it shouldn’t scream Kelly Bundy. Modesty is essential when dressing for an interview. Certain styles of dress are more acceptable in a workplace environment, so take this into consideration when choosing your attire. Use sweaters and jackets to conceal and create a more conservative look.

4. Choose an appropriate sleeve length. Many offices are instituting policies that restrict sleeveless shirts and blouses. Play it safe and wear clothing with sleeves to your interview. This will present a more polished look and show that you do own appropriate clothing.

5. Steer clear of loud colors and patterns. These types of clothing can be distracting to the interviewer. Your neon orange giraffe-patterned sweater is better suited for another occasion. Choose soothing tones like blue or gray to give you an empowered look and a fair chance at the interview. Ask a trusted friend for her opinion if you have any doubts.

6. Use modest amounts of makeup and accessories. Excessive makeup and jewelry detract from your appearance when you’re being interviewed. Since the focus should be on your skills, it’s not necessary to showcase your over-sized hoop earrings or your new blue eye shadow. Always keep in mind that your first impression may be your last impression if you can’t be taken seriously.

Tips & Warnings

• Always try your outfit on prior to the day of the interview.

• Avoid looking too overdressed or too frumpy on your interview.