Let's Talk Dress Code

Over the last week or two I have been involved in various interviews for positions ranging from administrative support for executives to clerical to trades workers, and I have noticed a common thread - no one seems to know how to dress for an interview anymore (or at least many people don't).  This is disheartening to me, because it is not that difficult to do, and it makes such a difference!  Here are some examples of what not to wear that I have seen in the past couple of weeks:

Sandals/flip flops
Polo Shirts
Sun dresses (even nice heels or a sweater can't dress these up enough to pass as professional)
tank tops
tennis shoes
mini skirts
low cut tops
capri pants

Now, obviously there are exceptions to every rule, and obviously you have to use your better judgment on a case by case basis.  But generally speaking none of the above should be worn to an interview.

Here are some guidelines for proper interview attire -

For women:

Your best bet of course is always a suit.  You can never go wrong with a suit.  Suits can be expensive I know, but not impossible.

Macy's online periodically clears out their suit inventory.  I have gotten several this way over the years and never spent more than $50.

TJ Maxx, Ross, and Marshalls (and similar stores) have beautiful suits (when they have them in stock, it's hit or miss sometimes.  That is the nature of the business they do).  The most I have ever seen for one was $100 (name brand, fully lined and gorgeous), however I found one about a month ago on the clearance rack that was just my size.  It was a lovely Calvin Klein skirt suit, and it was (no kidding) on clearance for $28.

Second hand stores are also a great place to get suits.  There is sometimes a stigma associated with these stores, and I don't understand why.  Certainly not everything on their racks are worth paying for, but if you really look you can find some steals.  I have actually found clothes there with the original price tags still on them.  So you get a brand new item for a fraction of the original cost.

If all else fails  and you don't have a suit (or can't afford or find one in one of the places listed above), wear something reserved and tasteful.  Skirts should touch the knee or just below.  Pants are of course totally acceptable, but they should fit (not too tight or loose, and the right length.  Professional length for pants means that if you have heels on the pant should hit about 1/4 to 1/2 way down the heel.  If you have flats or heels, the leg should lay straight.  It should not break.  Shirts typically should be collared, but you can get away with a nice, reserved shell if you need to.   If you wear a sleeveless shirt, you should have a jacket or cardigan over it.  Stay away from anything lacy, see-through, low cut or flashy.  Colors should be subdued, preferrably black or navy blue.

Nylons are recommended.  Shoes should be modest, complementary to the outfit, and a professional height.  Again, nothing flashy.  Closed toed is preferred.  Make sure your shoes are in good condition.  Do not wear shoes that are scratched or torn up.

For men:

A lot of what I said above can translate to men.  You should always wear a suit, and can (if you look really hard) get one at a discount store.  However, the nature of men's suits is that they need to be tailored, so that adds to the cost.  Because of this, it is acceptable to wear something else (though I do recommend investing in a suit as soon as you can afford one.  It is one of the best career tools a man can have).  Blazers, sports coats, dress shirts and ties can all be purchased very inexpensively at TJ Maxx, Ross, Marshalls, or even Goodwill.  Make the investment. 

If funds are too tight for this, make do with what you have.  Most men have a button up shirt, tie, and/or sports coat at home.  Wear a combination of these (preferably all 3) that are complementary to each other.  Shoes should be shined - shoe polish is not expensive and lasts forever.  They should also complement the outfit.  Socks should match the pants, and belt should match the shoes.

I have saved the pants for last, because too many men these days don't know the proper length for their pants legs.  The general consensus for professional men is that your pants should have a half break (that crease that is created when your pants hit your shoes). In order to achieve this break, your pants should hit midway between the top of your dress loafer and the top of your shoe sole.

There are other acceptable options, based on your height, but this is a good standard.  For more on this, here is a great article.

For both:

Your hair, nails, and clothing should all be tidy. Again, nothing dirty, flashy, or unkempt.  Accessories should also be tasteful and kept to a minimum. Do not wear perfume or cologne, or make sure it is very light.  The main point of all of this is to keep your resume and qualifications for the position front and center.  If you look professional, it will keep interviewers focused less on how you look, and more on how much they need to hire you!