Interviewing for a job is serious stuff. But trying to impress a decision maker does not mean you should dress like a dud.
Whether interviewing at uber-conservative Northern Trust Bank or for a groovy copy-writing job at Google, you need to look “appropriate,” yet set yourself apart from fellow interviewees. The trick? Incorporate your personal style and a kicky accessory into your look. This way you can convey professionalism and a sense of self-confidence. Remember: You never get a second chance to make a good first impression.
Creative job–woman
– Trend tip: Going for a creative job requires you to look groovy while maintaining a professional vibe.
– The look: Capable and cool with a flair for thinking “out of the box.” Channel Deborah Messing’s plucky Grace Adler.
– Outfit A: Slim-cut pants suit with low-rider pants, crisp button-down shirt (preferably striped) opened to third button or fitted turtleneck.
– Outfit B: Fitted black turtleneck sweater with colorful A-line skirt, black opaque tights.
– Accessories: Standout oversized hoop earrings. Boots with pointed toe or 3-inch pumps.
Conservative job–woman
There is no way to avoid it. Entering corporate America requires a suit. But fresh-faced gals who equate suits with schlumpy worker bees and pollyannas will be delighted to learn that fashionistas (including Julia Roberts, Uma Thurman and J.Lo) have ditched low-rider jeans in favor of sexy, slim-cut suits.
– The look: Professional with a hipster twist. Think Coco Chanel for the MTV generation.
– The outfit: Slim-cut tweed suit with just-above-the-knee skirt worn with black camisole or black, fitted turtleneck.
– Accessories: Opaque black tights (never nude pantyhose if you are under 60), a power pump and instead of the standard pearl stud, try a fun chandelier earring.
Creative job–man
– Trend tip: Be a hipster that emanates that can-do attitude
– The look: Studiously tousled, a la Hugh Grant in “About A Boy.”
– Outfit A: Button-down shirt with a (solid color) slim-cut V-neck sweater paired with flat-front corduroy pants.
– Outfit B: Fitted, turtleneck sweater partnered with dark denim jeans.
– Accessories: Black motorcycle boots, loafers or old-school Hush Puppy-esque ankle boot.
Conservative job–man
– Trend tip: Oversized clothing and pleated trousers are very last year. The best suits are tailored and sophisticated.
– The look: Dashing European banker. Role model? James Bond colliding with George Clooney at Gibsons.
– The outfit: Slim-cut suits (pin-stripes earn extra points) with flat-front trousers.
Accessories: Gleaming wing-tip shoes, messenger bag-style briefcase. Ties should be conservative, not loud.
