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We’re going to start with the assumption that you aren’t nearly as fashion-impaired as the guys hitting this site. But even the ultimate fashionista needs to know the rules for rocking an interview look are not the same as the rules for everyday fashion.
The Suit: Pants vs. Skirt
Yes, you need to wear a suit. Not a dress. Not a kick-ass tunic with leggings. Not $200 jeans and a killer leather blazer. A suit. Everyone in the world of corporate hiring agrees on that much. Whether the bottom half of that suit is pants or a skirt is the subject of much debate.
Personally, we tend to think that seeing as how women have been voting, working, running companies, traveling in space, running for high office, and generally kicking ass for a few decades now, the choice should be yours. When in doubt, observe women in your profession of choice and see which look they rock.
If you choose a skirt, there are three key things to consider: length, length and length. Under no circumstances should your hemline be more than three inches above the knee. No matter how great your legs look. No matter how bad you want the job. The most universally flattering and professionally acceptable skirt length is knee-length or just below. And here’s a trick: before you buy a skirt, sit facing a mirror while you are wearing it. That's what your interviewer will see. Ask yourself whether it will be distracting or reinforce your image as seriously hirable.
If you go with pants, they should be creased and tailored, not tight or flowing.
Fabric
Gabardine, wool and high quality wool blends are your best choice. They are comfortable, breathable, professional and seasonally versatile. You should purchase the best quality suit you can afford. Luckily, with fabulous off-price retailers like Syms out there, you can get a lot of style for a lot less.
Whatever you do, avoid fabrics that are clingy or shiny. They just look cheap — in every possible definition of the word.
Fit
If a guy’s suit is too small, people assume he doesn’t know how to dress. If a girl’s suit is too tight, the judgments are much harsher and focus on far worse character traits than her fashion sense. Don’t give people anything to talk about. Pants or skirts shouldn’t be too tight or too baggy. And don’t worry if you aren’t proportioned exactly the way the designers think you should be. That’s what tailoring is for. If you buy your suit at a reputable retailer like Syms, they have expert tailors on hand to ensure your garments fit just the way they should.
Color and Pattern
Here, you have a lot more choices than guys. But choose wisely. Navy, grey and brown are always classics. Be wary of pastels. You don’t want to look like an Easter egg. And unless you are Elle Woods or auditioning for that role on Broadway, stay away from pink suits.
Patterns and prints should be subtle: pinstripes, houndstooth, etc. Nothing loud or highly contrasting. And no plaid. The last thing you want is to look like a Catholic school girl.
Interview/First year wardrobes - Ladies
Return of the interview suit
Styles & Trends for Ladies
Styles & Trends - European
Practical Guides
Now that you’ve chosen a suit, let’s finish the look with accessories.
