Appropriate Interview Attire For Women
Bluesuits Tropical Wool Stretch Classic Jacket
Whether you are a young professional embarking on a new course in your life or a seasoned professional in career transition or a professional woman in a secure job, your appearance has significant influence on your own self esteem as well as how others view you. The following is a reference guide to appropriate job interview attire for women written by designer Jamak Khazra who has dressed thousands of women. She launched Bluesuits to address the wardrobe needs of professional women.
Corporate Job Interviews:
First and second round interviews- skirt suit or pantsuit?
A skirt suit in dark navy, charcoal grey or black with a crisp white shirt, preferably brand new, is the most appropriate interview suit for the first or second round interviews. We recommend a classic 2 or 3 button Jacket with a slim skirt for a clean polished and professional look. An A-line or flared or wrap skirt is not as professional looking. A well cut slim skirt such as Bluesuits slim skirt will fit any shape.
If you are wondering what color is best for you the only way to find out is to try different colors but a Navy Blue suit or a Charcoal Grey suit is less severe than a black suit.
A pantsuit is more appropriate if you are going to an informational, an on campus company presentation or after you are hired for everyday work. Additionally pantsuits may be appropriate in less formal industries such as internet companies, and more creative fields
Non-Corporate Job Interviews
If you are interviewing for a creative field such as advertising, fashion or retail or a non-corporate environment you can be more creative with your interview attire. But be subtle not wacky or tacky.
Choose tailored separates
If you are wearing tropical wool suits make sure they have a more couture cut and style for example the Bluesuits J3399 is a good example
Choose brighter colors and novelty wools
Choose less conservative jacket styles
The key is SUBTLE
It is also a good idea to do some research on your own.
Know the culture of the firm.
Go for an informational interview- Most companies are happy to see you for an informational interview. This is your chance to see how people dress. If you see everyone in casual attire make sure it is not a day such as casual Friday. Keep in mind that what people wear to work is not necessarily an indication of what they wore to their first round interview. First round interviews are more formal, we suggest a skirt suit in navy, charcoal grey or black but more on that later.
Research company web site. If you live far away and cannot go for an informational interview check the company web site and see profiles of employees.
Call HR if you would like to get specific information about their preference.
Don’t see the answer to your question send us an e-mail with your questions at sales(at)bluesuitsonline.com
Women’s Suits, Interview suits, Shift Dresses, Work dresses, Coat Dresses, Work Pants, Side-zip pants, Wide-leg pants, Work skirts, Long skirts, Pleated skirts, handbags, bras.
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This is very thorough and totally helpful!
What is appropriate attire for interview, clerical position, tool & die, less than nine employees?
Linda,
I think it is wonderful that you are concerned about what would make the best impression even if the company you are interviewing for may be small or may not require formal attire. Employers will appreciate the effort you have put in your appearance and it is a sign that you take your position seriously.
I would recommend a white button down shirt, a tailored pant suit or skirt suit in a conservative color such as Navy, Charcoal or Black. The suit by no means needs to be expensive but should fit you well. If you choose to wear a jacket make sure the sleeves are not too long.
Good luck!