How Not to Dress for a Job Interview

When my friend's daughter Heather attended her first job interview after graduating from college, she looked like the perfect junior executive from head to ankle. Her silk blouse, tailored jacket and sleek pencil skirt made her look conference room-ready-until you looked down at her feet. Against her mother's advice, Heather wore designer flip flops, insisting they were appropriate for work because they were leather. She did not get the job and has since purchased stylish pumps for future job interviews.

While many articles give advice on how to dress for job interviews, what not to wear on a job interview could be even more important. Just one faux pas may flag you as a rookie who still needs a few more years flipping burgers.

Here are five fashion flubs to avoid to increase your odds of landing a job:

Rule 1: Blouse that reveals too much cleavage - Unless you're applying for a job at Hooters, showing off your cleavage may suggest you have little else to offer. That doesn't mean you should wear a turtleneck or nun's habit. Find a sensible middle ground that shows you're professional, not a professional.

Rule 2: Micro-mini skirt - If you have to struggle when you sit down to avoid revealing your panties, your skirt is too short. Image consultant and author Mary Lou Andre warns job seekers, "More skin, less power," according to USA Today.

Rule 3: Nose, tongue or eyebrow ring -Although this could be a generational bias, people in hiring positions tend to be older and may view rings sprouting from anywhere but the ears as rebellious or attention seeking. You're friends may love you just the way you are, but these are not qualities companies typically value in their employees.

Rule 4: Too much jewelry or make-up - Being mistaken for Dolly Parton will probably not help you in a job interview. While you may enjoy wearing sparkly bling and turquoise eye shadow, the interviewer should not have to wear sunglasses to look at you. Let your intelligence and personality shine through instead.

Rule 5: Ripped or wrinkled clothes - Any clothing item that is not in perfect shape may imply you are sloppy-a trait that could be generalized to your work performance. Before getting dressed, check for holes or loose seams and make sure your clothes are pressed. Showing care in what you wear will signal that you pay attention to detail and do high-quality work.

Sources:
Maria Puente, "How NOT to Dress for Work," USA Today
Peter Vogt, "Dressing for the Interview by Industry," Monster.com