Building An Interview Wardrobe
Interview Wardrobe
The clothes you choose to wear to your interview will create the first-and most important-impression upon those who matter, up until your first day on the job. At that point, you can start to relax into the club’s attire. But at this point, dressing to impress is mandatory, and the clothes you choose are critical. This section discusses the interview wardrobe’s key pieces, and the messages they send.
“At one time, the most qualified person got the job. Today, in a situation where three people with equal qualification are interviewed for a job, the one with the best communication skills gets it.”
WHAT DO YOUR CLOTHES SAY TO THE INTERVIEWER?
SUIT JACKET
Suit Jacket Long ago pilfered from menswear
Fabric : Hold drape smoothly, not appear stiff, shiny, or flimsy.
Color : Neutral-black, gray, navy’ or beige.
Shape : Slightly nipped in at waist.
Pockets : Optional pockets lie flat and are lined. Do not remove string to open.
Length : Hem extends to the bottom of the hips.
Sleeves : Sleeves land at the base of the thumb.
Collar : Collar lies smooth and flat against the neck.
Shoulders : Shoulders are structured but not overpadded.
Lapels : Medium to small lapels<3”1/4 from seam to point is ideallie flat without buckling.
FIT : Armholes should fit well-not too paddy, not too tight; this part of the jacket can’t be tailored.
Style : Single-breasted.
Buttons : Buttons are the same color or darker than the suit and never too large, flashy, or covered in fabric.
Suit Skirt
Formal, urban, conservative.
Fabric : Drapes smoothly.
NO BELT LOOPS
Shape Simple-a-line or straight, not too tight and never frilly.
Details For maximum versatility, the waist should not require a belt.
Fit : Skirt should not be too tight or too short-do a sitting text in tit before purchasing. Check the rear view mirror.
What look fabulous from the front cancelling or slouch from other angles.
Quality : Make sure seams are even and not pulled. Check that lining is firmly intact.
Length : To the knee. It’s the length that says, “I’m professional” and looks best on most legs. Shorter could be considered too fashion,longer, more traditional.
Suit Pants
Confident, contemporary, practical.
FIT :Pants should drape smoothly over the body, with no tight areas that drop. Check that the pocket lining is smooth and not bulky.
Quality: Check that fabric hangs evenly and seams are not mismatched or pulled.
THE BOTTOM LINE the seat of the pants should be neither overly baggy nor clingy. To ensure proper fit, check your rearview mirror and sit down while wearing the pants.
ZIP CODE Side, front, or rear closure are acceptable.
BANISH BELT LOOPS
For your first suit, a clean waistline is the most flexible. Belt loops always require a belt and that your top is tucked in.
FLAT FRONT VS. PLEATS
Both are professional; the flat front is more slimming and sophisticated.
LENGTH
The pant leg should break at the inseam. When having your pants hemmed, bring the shoe you will most often wear with them.
CUFFED LEG VS. CLEAN
Both are acceptable; a clean leg is more versatile.
Tops
Tops are key wardrobe enhancers,Change your top and essentially you’ve changed your look. Choose shirts and that are compatible with your suits. Make sure each top fits comfortably under your suit jacket-and looks suitably professional should you take your jacket off.
BLOUSE
A soft, somewhat loose feminine top. Conservative, confident, ladylike. FIRST PURCHASE: Solid white, cream, black, or a color to match your suit.
SHIRT
Button-front, cuffed-and-collared top inspired by menswear. Efficient, classic; respects authority. Choose a classic, men’s style dress collar; a button-down can be limiting. FIRST PURCHASE; Solid, white cotton.
From – Dress Smart for Women
