How to dress for an interview
It is thought that we form an impression of someone's character within the first seven seconds of meeting them. For this reason, what you wear to an interview is almost as important as what you say. Dressing the part implies that you can play the part so follow this advice to make your outfit work for you on the big day.
As a general rule the safest choice of clothing is a suit for both men and women. Suits are made in a huge variety of cuts and colours-single breasted is more appropriate than double. The suit should fit well and be in a neutral block colour such as black, blue or grey. Your interview is not the right time to experiment or prove how fashionable you are- keep things simple and classic.
For ladies:
if you choose to wear a skirt, stick to a length that is no shorter than just above the knee and remain modest- nothing to tight or low cut. Heels such as simple black or nude court shoes can help make you stand tall and feel more confident but keep them to a sensible height. Alternatively, if heels aren't your thing- simple black pumps are a safe option. It is not necessary to buy a full suit so long as you pair your outfit with a smart, well fitting jacket. A white blouse and trousers or a simple shift dress will look fine so long as you avoid inappropriate colours or fussy patterns. It is just as important to feel comfortable on the day as this will help you to relax.
For gentlemen:
Avoid any patterns or bright colours and keep your outfit classic. Ensure that your shoes are polished, un-scuffed and match your suit. Choose cotton over linen as it is less likely to crease. You may be a big fan of bright and cheerful ties but save them for when you're in the job. Similarly, novelty socks can brighten up your day but the interviewer can and will notice when you sit down!
As well as your clothing you should be mindful of your hair, nails and make-up. Keep things clean, neat and fresh- put-together is the aim as appose to over-done. Keep hair off of your face, stick to neutral shades for your nails and make-up and save attempting that complex smokey eye for the weekend. Jewellery should be discreet and minimal and avoid over-doing the perfume/cologne; restricting the interviewer's ability to breath will not win you any favours.
Finally, ensure that you've tried your outfit on in advance so that you have a chance to do your dry cleaning and ironing and ensure that everything fits properly. The last thing you need on the morning of an interview is unnecessary stress. The key to interviews is confidence and if you feel it you will act it!
My suggestions:
As a general rule the safest choice of clothing is a suit for both men and women. Suits are made in a huge variety of cuts and colours-single breasted is more appropriate than double. The suit should fit well and be in a neutral block colour such as black, blue or grey. Your interview is not the right time to experiment or prove how fashionable you are- keep things simple and classic.
For ladies:
if you choose to wear a skirt, stick to a length that is no shorter than just above the knee and remain modest- nothing to tight or low cut. Heels such as simple black or nude court shoes can help make you stand tall and feel more confident but keep them to a sensible height. Alternatively, if heels aren't your thing- simple black pumps are a safe option. It is not necessary to buy a full suit so long as you pair your outfit with a smart, well fitting jacket. A white blouse and trousers or a simple shift dress will look fine so long as you avoid inappropriate colours or fussy patterns. It is just as important to feel comfortable on the day as this will help you to relax.
For gentlemen:
Avoid any patterns or bright colours and keep your outfit classic. Ensure that your shoes are polished, un-scuffed and match your suit. Choose cotton over linen as it is less likely to crease. You may be a big fan of bright and cheerful ties but save them for when you're in the job. Similarly, novelty socks can brighten up your day but the interviewer can and will notice when you sit down!
As well as your clothing you should be mindful of your hair, nails and make-up. Keep things clean, neat and fresh- put-together is the aim as appose to over-done. Keep hair off of your face, stick to neutral shades for your nails and make-up and save attempting that complex smokey eye for the weekend. Jewellery should be discreet and minimal and avoid over-doing the perfume/cologne; restricting the interviewer's ability to breath will not win you any favours.
Finally, ensure that you've tried your outfit on in advance so that you have a chance to do your dry cleaning and ironing and ensure that everything fits properly. The last thing you need on the morning of an interview is unnecessary stress. The key to interviews is confidence and if you feel it you will act it!
My suggestions:
- Office Margarita Point Court Heels in Black, £42, Office Shoes http://bit.ly/2fgG62U
- Office Boom Point Black Leather Men's Shoes, £45, Office Shoes http://bit.ly/2fEM2mY
- Westminster Charcoal Regular Fit Infinity Suit, £149, T.M. Lewin http://bit.ly/2elQkQy
- Black Shift Dress, £48, Next http://bit.ly/2fU8Oc6
- Oasis Workwear Jacket, £65, ASOS http://bit.ly/2eN859K