You’re getting ready for an interview with a great company. You don’t want to be over-the-top formal but definitely don’t want to wear jeans. Everything you’ve read about this company screams business casual. You think to yourself, “Business casual? What does that even mean?”
It tends to differ for everyone, but there is a general guideline you can follow to put together a stunning outfit that will hopefully make a lasting impression during your interview.
Tops: Stick to something modest, and avoid T-shirts. You want to wear a breathable fabric to air out any nervous sweat. Button-downs and nice blouses are the best options. Make sure it doesn’t expose anything or ride up when you raise your arms or bend over. Black and white are always good go-to colors, but you can make yourself more memorable and show your personal flair if you pick a bright solid color or a blouse with a large pattern.
Bottoms: Do not wear jeans, shorts, or “mini” anything. You want to reach for flattering trousers in black, grey, brown, or blue. Your pants should be snug at the waist and hips and loose around the legs. This gives the appearance of longer legs, and it also slims you down. If you are wearing a skirt, make sure it doesn’t ride up. You don’t want to give an underwear peep show when trying to make a good impression. Be aware of panty lines, too! Wear a slip, spanks, or a thong if you must.
Dresses: Make sure you pick one that rests ¾ of the way to your knees. Avoid dresses that are skintight and make you look like you belong in a club. A modest neckline and flattering shape will make you look classy and put-together. The right dress will make it look as if you’re saying, “I am the one you have been waiting for,” to all potential employers. Even better, a dress can easily transition from an interview to a day around town in the blink of an eye.
Shoes: It’s best to play it safe and choose a pair of flats. If you are going to be on your feet, do not wear high heels. It doesn’t matter how comfortable they feel in the store because you’ll probably hate yourself by the end of the day. If you must wear heels, pick a pair that are modest and less than three inches. Be sure to grab an insole and some Band-Aids just in case!
Accessories: You can add personal style to any outfit with your accessories, but business casual demands caution. The key is to not overdo it. Try to limit accessories to simple earrings and a bracelet. If your shirt is plain and you think it needs a necklace, make sure that it’s not too distracting. Necklaces should be out of the way and not limit your range of motion at all.
Business casual attire is ultimately dependent on the company you’re interviewing with. When you’re deciding what to wear, try to get a feel for what the company culture demands by doing a little research. By following these guidelines, you should be on the path to interviewing success. Dress to impress, collegiettes™!
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