How to Dress Professionally for a Job Interview - Women
In an interview, the hiring manager should focus on your qualifications and experience, not your clothing. If your clothing is too informal or distracting, the interviewer might decide that you are not the right person for the job. Before your interview, research the dress code for that particular industry. Talk to professionals in the field and career counselors. A general rule of thumb is to dress for a career that is about two positions above the one for which you interview. Women should aim for a minimalist, conservative style. Wear timeless, classic clothing, rather than the latest trends.
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Instructions
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Select a conservative two-piece suit with either slacks or a skirt. A formal business suit is appropriate attire for an interview in most industries. The entire suit should fit you well and appear neat and pressed.
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Wear a tailored blouse that matches the suit's color. Avoid flamboyant prints and do not show any cleavage. Do not wear a blouse that is too tight or otherwise ill-fitting; it may distract your interviewer and make you appear disheveled.
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Select a conservative skirt if you prefer not to wear slacks. Sit down in front of a mirror while wearing the skirt. It should cover your thighs entirely. Avoid skirts with high slits. If you select a calf-length skirt, it is appropriate to have a slit that goes to the knee.
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Examine the colors of your outfit. The entire suit should have solid, matching colors, such as a dark gray jacket and dark gray slacks or skirt. Very subtle weave patterns are appropriate. Dark colors are always appropriate for an interview, but women may also select conservative lighter colors, such as light blue or gray. Avoid wearing any flamboyant or attention-grabbing colors or prints, such as hot pink.
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Select minimal, conservative jewelry. The jewelry should complement your suit, but avoid distracting your interviewer. If you wear earrings, select small studs, rather than dangling earrings that attract too much attention. If you are interviewing for a position in the fashion industry, you may have more wiggle room when selecting more creative jewelry.
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Wear shoes with heels low enough to allow you to walk comfortably. Avoid stilettos or shoes with chunky heels. Select a conservative style in a solid color that matches your suit. The shoes should have a closed toe. Pair your shoes with sheer hosiery in a neutral color.
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Tips & Warnings
Give your outfit a final check for loose threads and tags before going to your interview.
Go to your interview well-groomed, with clean, neat hair in a conservative style.
Avoid wearing perfume; some people are especially sensitive to odors.
References
Resources
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