7.30.2013

Polish your Interview Look

I've gotten some questions about putting together the perfect interview look so I thought this would be a great time to put an outfit together and discuss the key components of the polished interview ensemble. We all know interviews can be nerve wracking and it's such a short time where you need to make a strong first impression. We know that your merit and resume will do the most talking, however, first impressions are everything. And this includes how we look and present ourselves. You could have an Ivy League education and a decorated resume, but if you walk in looking all frumpty dumpty, or worse yet, just trashy and inappropriate, you'll most likely be passed over for that position. 
So what's in a perfect interview look you ask? Let's take a look:
Polished interview look
Recreate this polished look for yourself:


The Interview Look Essentials:

1. Tailored Dress. I really like this dress because of its clean lines and the fabric is perfect all year round. The gray is beautiful but black would also work well, and either can be worn with a jacket on top. Other great options include this one or this one. The main thing you need to do is wear something tailored and well-fitted and avoid anything too tight, too short, or even too baggy.

2. Classic black pumps. Oh the red bottoms we know as Christian Louboutin. If you have the money, go for them. Just make sure they are closed toe, and the heels aren't too high or too sexy. You want conservative and business looking shoes. I also like these and these. And make sure you are comfortable and can actually walk in those heels. Because nothing gives off a bad first impression than awkwardly walking in heels like a 5 year old wearing her momma's shoes!

3. Black Purse or brief case. Again, if money were no object that Celine bag is to die for. A black structured bag is great to hold your portfolio, resumes and other business gear. Other great bags include this one or this one. I stress a plain black bag too. This is not the time to wear your hot pink sequined bag or Louis Vuitton limited edition with flowers and cherries all over it. This is a serious job, and you don't want these distracting (though fun) patterns getting in the way of who you are as a candidate. 

4. Simple Jewelry. KEEP IT SIMPLE. I can not stress this enough. This is not the time to show off your "arm party" or how many rings and midi rings you can stick on each finger. No, just no. Wear a simple watch, stud earrings, and simple necklace. I actually wear this necklace in silver with my initial from Tiffany's because it is small and nondescript. I even go as far as not wearing my diamond cross necklace that D got me because I don't want to portray any specific religion and want to appear as neutral as possible. This might not matter, and some might think it's silly, but I always avoid religious and political affiliated things during an interview when possible. 

5. Classic Makeup. Avoid your hot pink lipstick and lime green manicure right now. I don't care if it's Chanel -- it's not approrpriate. Before I have an interview I always get my nails done and pick a soft pink or nude to just appear polished, professional and clean. The same goes for your makeup. Clean lines and soft natural colors will work best. Other great "interview nail" colors are this one, this one, or this one.

So that's my take on the perfect interview look. 
What do you like to wear on an interview? What are some of your tips and tricks?

xo Steph

20 comments:

  1. You mentioned all the things I do! Great review though.

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  2. I always wear a black suit to interviews. Boring but says serious!

    -Sharon
    The Tiny Heart

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  3. Great tips!
    I think it's also really important to keep in mind where you are interviewing. My job requires me to wear a suit for certain events so it seems only appropriate that I showed them my best suit. I wore a soft grey suit jacket to my interview here and one of my interviewers actually brought it up and gave me a little compliment!

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  4. Great look, love that it's so classy!

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  5. I would love a pair of classic black Louboutins! This is a perfect interview look!

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  6. These are great tips! Definitely sticking to simple, classic pieces will be the recipe for success, and will give you confidence. I would probably add a jacket (for the dress you chose, maybe an ivory colored blazer would work). If it's a serious job, you will likely have back to back interviews with several people at various levels of seniority, and a jacket definitely says "I mean business". I have taken my jacket off during interviews once I felt comfortable. Also, I agree that it is really important to dress up, and not necessarily dress according to the corporations' dress codes. I've seen advice (even on LinkedIn!) where some have said that if the environment is casual/creative or if people wear jeans to work, you should also wear a dressed up version of jeans to the interview to show you "fit in"- but I think this is bad advice. You have not earned the right yet to dress like you work there. You have to get in the door first!

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  7. Great post! Very useful, thanks! xx

    Alex

    http://ahflondon.blogspot.co.uk/

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  8. Great advice! I hate when I see people come into my company for an interview and they don't look polished!

    Jacqueline
    www.purelypeanut.com

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  9. Great tips! I love the outfit, and I would wear this to the office any day or for an interview!

    -AJ
    FitTravelerAJ.com

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  10. These are definitely great things to remember! The outfit you put together is flawless, looks professional and will be perfect for any age and style!

    Cee. ♥
    Code Overdressed

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  11. love this collage and obsessed with that bag! love it

    xx
    francesca
    Frank Vinyl. A california personal style blog

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  12. Just came across your blog and really like it!!! Love those pics. I am all about the polished look :) New follower :)

    I Pink i Love You

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  13. Love this entire look!

    http://hellonewlywedlife.blogspot.com/

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  14. Loving this sophisticated look!

    xo Amy

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  15. Pretty and classy. Perfect interview outfit!

    xo, Yi-chia
    Always Maylee

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  16. great advice, first impressions are so important!

    Jamie
    www.candystilettos.com

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  17. All are looks spanking . Great thanks for this post shared .

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I love getting and reading all your comments and respond to most of them when I can. Love hearing from you all! xo

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