Dressing for the Interview
Should your clothes and appearance be a consideration for whether you can perform the duties of a particular job? No.
Will your clothes and appearance be considered in evaluating you for a particular job? Yes.
Your primary goal in dressing for an interview is to feel good about the way you look while projecting an image that matches the requirements of the position and company.
Business Professional Attire
| Guidelines for Women | Guidelines for Men |
|---|---|
| Suits, Dresses: Conservative business suit, pantsuit, or dress of natural or woven-blend fabric; skirt length should be to the bottom of the knee at least. Choose a color that complements your skin tone and hair color; beige, black, navy, or gray. Make sure your clothes are not too tight or too loose. | Suits: Preferred dark blue, gray, or muted pin-stripes. Muted brown or black also acceptable. A quality woven blend of natural fibers looks professional. Avoid bold pin-stripes, contrasting slacks and sport coat, or light colors. |
| Blouses or tops: Simple style. Avoid low-cut necklines or very frilly styles. | Shirts: A nice quality white button-down or white classic collar is preferred. Oxford blue or a muted stripe is also acceptable. Be sure it is ironed. |
| Shoes: Polished pumps or medium heels in color that matches your outfit. | Ties are a MUST: Conservative stripes or paisleys that complement your suit. Silk or good quality blends only. |
| Stockings: Beige, tan, or natural. Avoid patterns or lacy stockings. | Shoes: Highly polished slip-ons or laced dress shoes; brown, cordovan, or black. |
| Purse: Not necessary, but if you bring one it should be of small or medium size in a color that goes with your outfit. |
Guidelines for Both Women and Men
- Avoid unkempt hair or over-the-top hairstyles
- Avoid excessive perfume or cologne
- Manicure nails and clean hands
Business Casual Attire
Business casual does not mean casual. It does not mean that you can dress however you want—you are still expected to look professional. For men, a business casual wardrobe should consist of several long-sleeved cotton oxford shirts; cotton polo or golf shirts; chinos in acceptable colors (khaki, dark blue, olive green, or stone); wool slacks; and a sport coat. For women, shirts or blouses are acceptable, sweaters or knit tops will also work. Pants should be non-denim fabrics that compliment the top. The addition of a fashionable jacket is always a nice touch.