It’s interview time. You’re sitting before the interviewers, feeling confident in your pink lipstick, giant hoop earrings and leopard-print mini-dress. After all, your résumé speaks for itself, right? “So, Jennifer,” one woman says, trying not to look at your cleavage. “Tell us about the time you spent de-worming orphans in Somalia.” (Ok, I stole that from Legally Blonde).
Readers, you already know what’s wrong with this picture. Everything. Putting aside the issue of why a woman’s appearance — rather than her accomplishments alone — should matter, you know as well as I do that you should look your best at a job interview! The interviewer should envision you running a meeting, not rocking out at a Metallica concert. Like it or not, people will make assumptions about you based on what you’re wearing and how polished and groomed you are.
Fortunately, we can rely on the trusty old suit. The interviewers will expect to see it, and it may throw them off to choose otherwise. Don’t be afraid to try olive, brown or a subtle pinstripe instead of the standard grey, black or navy. Save your money and buy a suit that really works: no bargain basement suits, unless you find something that’s exceptionally well-made.
Go with a silk shell or bow blouse in a bright colour or interesting print (and try short sleeves — you will sweat more than usual). Pick a colour that suits your skin tone and makes you “glow”. Remember, you want to look happy, not washed out and pale (like you’ve been up all night freaking out about the interview!). If you must wear a button-down, try something other than white or blue, and don’t be afraid to liven it up a bit (stripes, interesting buttons, detailing). Be careful with a low neckline — would you rather be the girl with the impressive resume, or the girl with the impressive…well, you get the drift!
To hose or not to hose? Personally, I prefer them, as I think they look more professional. That being said, most interviewers won’t (and shouldn’t) be looking at your legs — and most likely, you’ll be sitting behind a table. However, ultimately, pantyhose convey the impression that you took the time to put yourself together. When it comes to an interview, it usually pays to be conservative. Ultimately, just make sure you feel comfortable.
No scuffs or cruddy old shoes, please! Make them sleek, polished and classic: black patent kitten heels or perhaps a brown round-toe pump. Avoid the wedge or the overly glittery/embellished shoe. But don’t feel you need to play it Talbots-catalogue safe — a good friend of mine wore fabulous lace-up burgundy Oxfords with a silk bow during on-campus interviews, and she had multiple job offers (I like to think the shoes gave her that certain oomph, but it was probably her A’s and winning personality).
Make-up should be polished and minimal — no bright colours, sparkly gloss or thick eyeliner. Avoid fancy hairstyles or out-of-control messes. If I may inject a personal tidbit here: I was born with what some have called “heavy metal band hair,” and I had to style it accordingly. Again, I didn’t want my interviewers to be humming Every Rose Has Its Thorn instead of discussing my accomplishments. Try to work with what you have to create a polished and professional look.
And finally, top it all off with tasteful and classic accessories! Feel free to experiment with your glasses and watch through colour and texture to inject some interest into your outfit. Be careful with jewellery: nothing too flashy or logoed. For earrings, studs are the best choice, though a tasteful (and short) dangle can be acceptable, depending on the style. Finally, I would recommend a nice leather briefcase, or a structured satchel in a rich autumnal hue such as burgundy, navy or hunter green.
Readers, don’t feel that you need to dress in frumpy, forgettable clothing, lest you appear as an individual with actual preferences! As Kara Sutherland, Director of Professional Resources at Fraser Milner Casgrain LLP, says: “Wearing a suit should not be like wearing a uniform. If you can add a dash of style, with a nice scarf or a patterned blouse, for example, you should! The art is to create the impression of being stylish, without being gaudy or trendy. Think Coco Chanel, Jackie Kennedy, Kate Middleton… ” The message you’re going for is formal, conservative and dependable. This is not the time to take big fashion risks, but you do want to stand out — in a good way.
Now, dear readers, you’re ready to ace your interview, feeling comfortable, professional and confident. Knock ‘em dead!
Style Counsel’s interview outfit recommendations, two ways
Pretty conservative:
1035 Jacket in stretch wool, J. Crew ($338)
Laura silk blouse, Banana Republic ($110)
Stovepipe trouser in stretch wool, J. Crew ($212)
Classic pumps with a twist, Aldo ($90)
Deloach stud earrings, Aldo ($10)
Steve Madden Philips bag, The Bay ($60)
Edgier with colour:
Navy lightweight wool blazer, Banana Republic ($240)
Flocked peplum top, Forever 21 ($21.80)
Navy lightweight wool pencil skirt, Banana Republic ($110)
Calvin Klein Dolly suede pumps, The Bay ($129)
Bejeweled pattern earrings, Forever 21 ($6.80)
Biennial medium satchel, J. Crew ($318)
Ladies first — Emma’s next column will offer interview attire advice for men.
Emma Williamson is a fashion-obsessed corporate commercial lawyer at FMC. Her mission is to inspire Precedent’s female readers to break out of a style rut while obeying obvious and not-so-obvious workplace dress codes. Follow her on Twitter: @EmmaWorkStyle.
Have questions or a column idea for Emma? Send them to tips@lawandstyle.beta-site.ca.
Image: Ckepper via Wikimedia Commons