Guide to Clothing for a Job Interview

There is no doubt job interviews today are not as stringent as they once were. With the recession and many people out of jobs looking your best is mandatory. Even though the resume is what got you through the door it's your appearance that will be engraved in the mind of the interviewer. It's his job to take note of your language, mannerisms, confidence, enthusiasm and whether or not you look the part for the job. Although looking fashionable is not nearly as important as dressing appropriately for an interview; here are some fashion mishaps that should be avoided.

Looking Disheveled

Walking into an interview with clothing that does not fit well or disheveled is going to be one of the things the interviewer remembers about you. Simple things such as tucking in your blouse or making sure your pants don't sag can create a polished image. If you plan to wear a suit make sure it is clean and pressed. Sharp creases and crisp collars really do make a good impression.

Hosiery

As silly as this may sound socks and hosiery can make all the difference during a job interview; especially if the job is in retail management for an up-scale store. Once you get your foot in the door the dress code may not be so strict but missing out on a job due to showing bare legs would be a shame. For those gents out there who plan to wear a suit be sure to invest in a pair of dark socks. White socks showing from underneath your suit pants are sure to be noticed and not in a good way.

Shoes

Although sneakers are comfy for every day wear they're not appropriate for an interview setting. Even if you are interviewing at a sports store the shoes should be clean and go well with your interview outfit. A pair of Nike's is not appropriate with slacks and a sports jacket.

Dress shoes for women come in 1000's of styles but not every style is appropriate for an interview. Wearing a pair of black and white wing-tip-brass-knuckle stilettos may be great for Friday night out with friends but not for an interview with a conservative company.

Proper attire for the appropriate setting

Would you show up to a frat party in a blouse and strand of pearls? Highly doubtful, so why would wearing a pair of sneakers and jeans seem appropriate for an interview? A three piece suit or skirt suit may not be necessary for a food and beverage position but some form of dress attire like slacks and a blazer or twin set is much better than a white tee and leggings.

Accessories

Bold accessories are a great way to express your personality but toning it down a bit for a job interview may be just the right touch to finish off your ensemble and to keep your sense of style. Wearing thirty-six inches of bold gold, rings on every finger or an arm loaded with jelly bracelets may create an image that is not considered presentable.

Source: Me