A Men's Guide to Dressing Successfully for Job Interviews

First impressions are formed within the first three seconds of a new encounter. When you are going to a job interview, you definitely want to give a good first impression to those who are meeting you for the first time. Although jobs are never offered solely on how a candidate is dressed, dressing to impress is a crucial component. Learning to dress successfully will contribute to the overall success of the interview process. Let's help all those fashion-challenged men out there.

Suit: Just bite the bullet and invest in a high quality wool suit. This is not the department to skim. If you are taller, you can either get a two- or three-button suit. Otherwise, stick with a two-button. It shows more torso and elongates your silhouette. If you only own one suit, stick with a solid dark navy or charcoal. The versatility is unbeatable. For a second suit, pinstripes add a little flair and are extremely popular right now. Who does not like feeling more powerful? Unless you are buying a custom suit or you have physique like a model's, your suit will need alternations. Do not skim on this either. The fit is extremely important. It is far wiser to buy a slightly cheaper suit and spend the money to alternate for a great fit that to commit the entire budget on a designer suit and have no money left for tailoring. Start befriending your local tailor today.

Shirt: White is the most versatile because it goes with all colors. Blue is as good a choice. Wear pink (if appropriate) to make yourself stand out from the crowd. When in doubt though, just keep it simple. Shirt sizes are measured by neck and sleeve lengths. Make sure you can comfortably button the shirt to the top. When you wear the shirt and suit, a half inch of shirt cuff should show below your jacket cuff. You guessed it, it is to time to pay your friendly tailor a visit. Finally, make sure the shirt is pressed and wrinkle-free before the interview. No exceptions here.

Tie: The material should be 100% silk. A dark solid tie is the most conservative choice. A subdue pinstriped or polka dot one is also acceptable. Try to stay away from cartoon characters or sport themes. An interview is not the time to make a fashion statement. Regarding knot, an symmetric and medium-sized knot is preferred. Windsor (either half or full) and Pratt knots are both appropriate. Even though four-in-hand is the simplest knot, its asymmetry gives it a more casual look. Belt: You can hardly go wrong with a black or brown belt. The buckle should be medium size. My philosophy for this department is to keep it minimal. The simpler, the better.

Socks: Your socks should cover your calves when seated and match the color of your belt. If you have been paying attention all along, you will be wearing black or brown socks. Hopefully, you will refrain from wearing a white belt. Either are white socks ever appropriate for a job interview! I have never seen anyone pull that off.

Shoes: Stick with black or brown lace-ups. Oxfords and wingtips are both acceptable. Loafers are very stylish and comfortable but not appropriate for interviews. Polish your shoes ahead of time. This shows attention to details and boosts your confidence. Few employers are turned off with such attributes.

Jewelry: Keep them to minimum and nothing flashy. A classy wristwatch and wedding ring (if married) are acceptable.