Dress to Impress: What to Wear for Your Job Interview

Dressing for a job interview can be an anxiety-inducing experience. What you wear could make or break a job interview. It may seem superficial, but how we present ourselves visually says a lot about our inner selves. Whether you like it or not, appearance plays a large role in landing a job.

Before you tear through your closet, take time to consider the job to which you are applying. Is it a casual atmosphere? Or is it a more professional setting? In either case, simple but neat is the way to go, but professional careers will look more closely at your attire. That's why this article focuses on interview clothing for a professional career.

The basics to looking good for your interview are not the fabric you put on. Things like your hair, nails, and smile are big players in your overall appearance. Hair should be neat. For women with long hair, go ahead and pull it back. This will insure an interviewer won't be distracted by your long hair. Nails should be manicured and free from any crazy nail polish. I love wild nail colors, but save that for when you've already established yourself in the position that you desire. Your smile is a great door opener and can make an interviewer feel at ease with you. I hope no one needs this reminder, but make sure you've brushed your teeth. If you can, use some at-home teeth whitening system. Everyone loves a big bright white smile. For ladies, keep makeup to a minimum. Don't wear distracting eye shadow or super bright lipstick.

The clothing that you wear should be simple and classic. A great option for men is a button down shirt paired with khakis or trousers for a casual office. You can never go wrong with a suit, so if you're in doubt as to whether your future office is a casual atmosphere, err on the side of caution. When choosing a tie, go with a solid color or a subtle pattern. Please, no cartoon characters or animals. That can get your resume tossed immediately.

Women should go conservative with a nice shirt or blouse. Avoid anything showing cleavage unless that fits the job you're applying for. A solid color pencil skirt or wide-leg trousers can give off a vibe of power and confidence. Top it all off with a jacket for a pulled together look. For more creative jobs, you have more room to play. Interviewers for interior designers or makeup artists will be looking at your style and you don't want to be boring. Let your originality shine!

Jewelry for both men and women should be minimum. Limit it to one ring and a necklace. Small earrings are fine as long as they aren't distracting. Men should stay away from pretty much everything except for a wedding ring.

Shoes are extremely important at a job interview. Make sure your shoes are free of scuffs and dirt. Shine or buff your leather shoes the night before. Stay away from sandals or open-toed shoes at an interview. Flip flops are a big no-no. Go for a classic shoe. For women, shoes can be a great way to give an otherwise classic outfit a personal twist. Jazz up your suit with a bright pair of heels. It says you aren't afraid to take a calculated risk.

When dressing for a job interview, always think about the job you want. How will you dress on your first day of work? Go for a similar look that will make you feel comfortable and self-assured. Go in knowing you look great. Confidence and poise will be key factors in getting the job you desire.