My first job interview was at a small town movie theater. I wore black pants that did not fit me properly and a stiff white blouse. I was 16, uncomfortable and did not feel at all like myself.
Plenty of us have had part-time jobs, but after graduation we are looking to land a job that we have been working hard to achieve. It is important to feel confident, stylish and professional for an interview:
Invest in the basics – a little black dress, classic black pumps, a white boyfriend shirt, a tailored pencil skirt, and a timeless watch. When it comes to purchasing a little black dress, think Audrey Hepburn in “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” – look for a piece that makes you feel elegant and approachable.
You can find affordable dresses at Banana Republic, Forever 21 and Ann Taylor Loft. Try navy or cream as a change from basic black. A pretty cream dress can be great for winter. For a slightly edgier style, throw in a scarf or an interesting necklace as a conversation piece, and a way to show off your personal style.
Heels are a good option for interview shoes. They will help you stand a little straighter and hold your head a little higher. If heels are absolutely out of the question, ballet flats will do. Steve Madden, Jessica Simpson footwear or Aldo are some options for great footwear. Try Gap, Target and B.P. shoes from Nordstrom for ballet flats. Always make sure the shoe fits you correctly, and do not let a sales associate pressure you into a shoe that is not right for you.
A white boyfriend shirt is a crisp, button-up top styled like his and fit for you. This shirt works well with a tailored pair of pants, pencil skirts or for layering under cardigans and sweaters. Try shirts from Gap, J.Crew, and Zara. Make sure the shirt fits you properly so you don’t have to fuss with it later.
There are many styling possibilities when it comes to pencil skirts. You can pair one with collared shirts, tank tops with cardigans, or a sparkly top in a muted color. Express makes some of the best affordable skirts, with an animal print or jewel toned lining on the inside.
A timeless watch is a great finishing touch for any interview outfit. Michael Kors make beautiful gold ones, and Timex offers classy, military-inspired styles. Save up for a bit and splurge on a good quality watch that will last, or try the B.P. department at Nordstrom. It has pretty watches at reasonable prices.
Trends come and go, but these stapes will be forever. However, if you are into trends, purchase accessories like a vibrant handbag, which is in this spring, or a leopard print Juicy Couture bag to spice up an outfit.
Your clothes should be polished, but your work experience should shine the most. Keep makeup to a minimum and let your natural beauty come through. Bobbi Brown has wonderful makeup manuals that can help you achieve this polished look. Chipped nails are a don’t, and keep the trendy blue Katy Perry for O.P.I for another day. Be yourself, and don’t forget the most important accessory of all – a smile.
Photo Sources:
Fanpop.com (Audrey Hepburn in article)
EW.com (Audrey Hepburn as Rep image)