At some point in your college career, you will be applying for a job or internship. Whether you’re a graduating senior (almost there!) or an underclassman reveling in college life, interview season is here.
If you’re looking to score the internship of your dreams or your first “big girl” job, there is no way of avoiding the dreaded interview. With so much to do in such a short period of time, the entire process can be overwhelming, to say the least. Perfecting your resume, revising your cover letter (again, and again) and participating in mock interviews are more than enough to fill your already hectic schedule. Throw in “Interview Attire 101” and it’s nearly unmanageable!
You’re a smart and savvy collegiette (duh!); don’t make the erroneous error of skimping on your interview attire. Interviews are scary enough as it is – do yourself a favor and be comfortable in your skin! Here are some fashion tips to keep in mind to seal the deal!
Be Yourself
If you don’t feel secure in what you’re wearing, then you’re not going to feel confident when it comes time to answer the big questions. Just because it’s an interview for a super renowned company or firm doesn’t mean that you have to resort to a blazer or stuffy suit. Wearing a blah outfit is going to make you feel blah!
There are numerous ways to appear professional, while also maintaining your personal style. For instance, if you are über feminine and rarely caught in jeans, then a dress or skirt is your best bet. Similarly, if you abhor the thought of having to wear a skirt, opt for fitted trousers. The point is, don’t stray too far from who you are!
Know your Audience
Your dress code may vary depending on the profession that your potential job or internship falls in. For instance, if you are applying for a job in the fashion industry, then you will want to look extra chic! Not to say that you should don your most fashion-forward ensemble, but you do want to convey to interviewers that you have style.
If you’re seeking a career in the corporate spectrum, then try to stick with black. Nothing looks more intimidating than a black blazer, skirt, or modest dress.
If you know for sure that the job you are applying for has a more laidback dress code, then you can cool it down a bit! Adrian Granzella Larssen, the managing editor for the Daily Muse says, “If you’re interviewing at a place where everyone comes to work in jeans and flannels, you don’t want to show up in a black suit—it will signal that you won’t fit in or don’t understand the company culture.”
When in doubt, remember that it’s much better to be slightly overdressed than underdressed!
It’s All About Balance
Yes, you can wear bold colors! A dizzyingly floral print – sure! Sequins – why not! All of these embellishments can be worn, just not all at once. Moderation and balance are the keys to creating an ensemble that is interview-appropriate. If you love bright colors and even brasher prints, remember to keep it to a minimum.
One great and easy way to inject can’t-miss shades such as tangerine and electric pink into an outfit is through your accessories. An orange clutch or hot pink bangle will instantly add a pop of color to your ensemble without overdoing it. A blouse in an alluring hue, such as magenta, or a skirt in cobalt blue can also work, assuming that you have streamlined the rest of your outfit.
When dealing with busy prints and patterns, you don’t want to overdo it. Select one printed item, whether it be a striped top, polka-dot blouse or floral dress, and keep everything else neutral. Use the colors found within the print as a guide when selecting shoes and accessories to match.
As for harder to pull off fabrics, such as sequins and lace, less is more! A sequined skirt is probably too flashy for most interviews, but if it’s knee length and worn with just the right accessories, then go for it! Lace can be ultra-sophisticated when worn correctly. A black lace skirt or cardigan embellished with lace are two dressy options that are always classy. Disclaimer: avoid neon-colored lace or lace tops that are see-through at all costs!
Accessories: The Rule of “One” and Keeping it Simple
While accessories can certainly enhance an outfit, they can also come across as too bold or distracting (no one likes jewelry that is noisy, cling-clang!). That being said, when dressing for an interview, one of the worst blunders you can make is over-accessorizing. If bib necklaces, cocktail rings and stacked bangles are a regular fixation in your wardrobe, then the rule of “one” will be of great interest to you.
Instead of wearing too much jewelry, consider picking one statement piece that will serve as the focal point of your ensemble. A pretty printed scarf, a stunning gold necklace with jewel-toned crystals, and an oversized ring are some chic options to try.
If, however, you are one to err on the conservative side in the jewelry department, then make an effort to add a little extra dazzle to your outfit. You don’t have to add much to make an impact! A simple pearl necklace (long or short strand), stud earrings and a charm bracelet are all acceptable and show that you took the time to dress a little extra-special!
Shoes
Remember my tip about feeling comfortable and confident in what you’re wearing? Yeah, that still stands here! If you have a phobia of high-heeled shoes and can’t walk two feet without stumbling over, then don’t wear them! Flats are completely acceptable and will save you the humiliation from falling in front of your potential boss and colleagues. Pointed-toe shoes, ballet flats and even oxfords will help you in maintaining a chic, yet still professional look.
Although wearing pumps may give you an instant confidence boost, beware of high-heeled shoes that are more than three inches tall. While you may feel cool strutting into your interview with your back straight and chin up, you need to remember that it’s not the catwalk. There’s a time and place for everything; save your sky-high heels for the weekend!
When it comes to shoes, never ever wear sneakers, clogs or flip-flops! All of these are generally frowned upon in the workplace and are considered serious interview faux pas. If it looks like you threw your outfit on in five minutes, then you’re not going to come across as a serious candidate.
Foolproof Options:
– You can never go wrong with a pencil skirt – just make sure that it’s no shorter than knee length!
– A white blouse and button-up shirt are great foundation pieces. In an article on what to wear to an interview, Teen Vogue listed a “tucked-in silk blouse” as one major staple item that always makes a great first impression.
– A smart blazer is the ultimate wardrobe staple. Refinery 29 puts it best, “Blazers lend a ‘I mean serious business’ edge to any outfit. Regardless of how professional or casual the work environment is, you can’t go wrong with a tailored, slim-fit jacket.” Agreed!
– Classic cardigans are quintessential for interviews that are less corporate, more casual.
– A black or dark-neutral colored dress, or both, will come in handy, especially if you’re called back for a second interview!
– Pearl stud earrings are classy, timeless, and guaranteed to dress up any outfit.
The most important point to remember is to be yourself. Let your style be a reflection of who you are as a person and ace your next interview! Good luck, collegiettes!
Sources:
http://www.thedailymuse.com/job-search/looks-that-land-the-job-what-to-wear-to-any-interview/
http://www.teenvogue.com/style/2011/06/what-to-wear-to-an-interview#intro
http://www.refinery29.com/style-syllabus-how-to-dress-for-internship-interviews?page=2