Interview attire

SDN Members don't see this ad. (About Ads)

So with people starting to get interviews, what does everyone think about interview attire? Comment for all genders...

As a woman I'm wearing a very simple gray dress that reaches just above the knee and pairing that with a simple black jacket. Conservative shoes. Both my interviews are the same week, so I am also going to have a back up skirt and blouse to pair with the jacket in case I spill coffee on the dress and can't get it cleaned in time. This link shows images of suitable interview attire which may be helpful

.http://www.google.com/search?q=inter...w=1024&bih=700

A problem that I am having is that I live in the south and don't have a nice coat to go over the interview attire. Both of my interviews are up North in the cold weather states. I'm going to have to shell out the money for a nice coat to wear to the interviews and unless I match at one of the cold weather spots, I'll probably never wear the coat again !

Originally Posted by PhDMiss2014

A problem that I am having is that I live in the south and don't have a nice coat to go over the interview attire. Both of my interviews are up North in the cold weather states. I'm going to have to shell out the money for a nice coat to wear to the interviews and unless I match at one of the cold weather spots, I'll probably never wear the coat again !

That stinks. Maybe someone here should make an interview outfit resale/recycling thread?

I like to imagine that when/if I get to this phase I'll get a terrific suit and look like Pam Grier at the end of Jackie Brown, or Diane Keaton in...anything! But what I'll probably look like is a landslide with lapels.

Originally Posted by PhDMiss2014

A problem that I am having is that I live in the south and don't have a nice coat to go over the interview attire. Both of my interviews are up North in the cold weather states. I'm going to have to shell out the money for a nice coat to wear to the interviews and unless I match at one of the cold weather spots, I'll probably never wear the coat again !

What I think you'll find is that northerly folks aren't necessarily going to wear fancy outerwear--I honestly don't think the coat will matter. Buy a decent used one on ebay for a reasonable price.

Originally Posted by Psychadelic2012

What I think you'll find is that northerly folks aren't necessarily going to wear fancy outerwear--I honestly don't think the coat will matter. Buy a decent used one on ebay for a reasonable price.

Yeah, northerners don't really have special formal coats. Just get a big, puffy, cheap coat and put it over over your interview clothes. Practicality over svelteness. You're going to take it off once you get in the building, anyway, so it doesn't really need to look good sitting on a coat rack.

Originally Posted by Qwerk

Yeah, northerners don't really have special formal coats. Just get a big, puffy, cheap coat and put it over over your interview clothes. Practicality over svelteness. You're going to take it off once you get in the building, anyway, so it doesn't really need to look good sitting on a coat rack.

Agreed. I'd try for somewhat professional (dark wool is probably your best bet, although there are other options). Don't panic about whether it looks perfectly stylish or expensive, though... Warmth over style every time. Also note that you may end up carrying it from room to room at some sites.

Originally Posted by PhDMiss2014

A problem that I am having is that I live in the south and don't have a nice coat to go over the interview attire. Both of my interviews are up North in the cold weather states. I'm going to have to shell out the money for a nice coat to wear to the interviews and unless I match at one of the cold weather spots, I'll probably never wear the coat again !

Now I am assuming you are female because of your name, but please correct me if I am wrong. When I interviewed in cold northern states (as a guy), I had a great warm coat but it wasn't "interview" attire. So I left it in the car and just ran from the lot to the building on those days. I made sure to get there early enough so that i could thaw out if needed in the bathroom.

There's more than one way to skin a cat...

A friend of mine has offered to loan me her long down coat, but I didn't think it would be dressy enough. From your responses though it may be what I need. For one of my interviews I was able to find a hotel a half mile from the interview so I plan on walking to that interview from my hoteland will definitely need some type of coat. Initially I was thinking style over function, but may need to rethink that if y'all think it will be okay.

Originally Posted by PhDMiss2014

A friend of mine has offered to loan me her long down coat, but I didn't think it would be dressy enough. From your responses though it may be what I need. For one of my interviews I was able to find a hotel a half mile from the interview so I plan on walking to that interview from my hoteland will definitely need some type of coat. Initially I was thinking style over function, but may need to rethink that if y'all think it will be okay.

When it is freezing outside, function always prevails

Originally Posted by wigflip

That stinks. Maybe someone here should make an interview outfit resale/recycling thread?

I like to imagine that when/if I get to this phase I'll get a terrific suit and look like Pam Grier at the end of Jackie Brown, or Diane Keaton in...anything! But what I'll probably look like is a landslide with lapels.

Ok, I don't want to be the ******* here, but, I guess I will be for a moment. You're how old and you don't own a decent winter coat? I live in the south, and it definitely gets down into the 20's and 30's here in the winter, which of course requires a coat. I'd say anyone over the age of 20 needs to own at least some sort of passable outwear. Someone suggested a recycled/reused clothing thread? How about be an adult and invest in work-appropriate clothing?

Originally Posted by Member 099812

Ok, I don't want to be the ******* here,

seems you couldn't resist the impulse.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

You're how old and you don't own a decent winter coat?

old enough to be your mother. show some respect, kid.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

I live in the south,

congratulations.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

I'd say anyone over the age of 20 needs to

yes, that's the kind of "one-size-fits-all" thinking that will get you far.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

Someone suggested a recycled/reused clothing thread?

yeah, that would be me. attention span? or how about a little compassion? my suggestion was in response to the other member who appeared unhappy at the prospect of a pricy one-time investment in a piece of clothing s/he was unlikely to reuse if things went her/his way during interviews. it was a helpful impulse, rather than say...an impulse to blast strangers for no discernible reason.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

How about be an adult and invest in work-appropriate clothing?

Umm...how about you increase your reading comprehension? you're snarking at the wrong person. I didn't even mention coats in my post. If you've ever seen any movies made earlier than 2000, you'd know that Jackie Brown culminates in Pam Grier donning an exquisite black suit
http://www.google.com/imgres?q=pam+g...9,r:1,s:0,i:93

and Diane Keaton has spent much of her career in suits.

mods, what can I say, it was self-defense.

I am fortunate to have many interviews and now that scheduling them is done I've turned to another luxury problem - having enough clean clothes to wear to all of them. I've got two suits, and enough dress shirts and ties to wear with them, but I'm not sure I'll be able to have my shirts pressed (and maybe even washed) between interviews.

I'm hoping I don't a) sweat through my shirts (I'm a guy, what can I say - and yes, I'll be wearing undershirts) or b) spill anything on them, so that I can recycle a few shirts in a short span of time. Anyone else dealing with this, and how are they negotiating this challenge?

Originally Posted by PhDMiss2014

A problem that I am having is that I live in the south and don't have a nice coat to go over the interview attire. Both of my interviews are up North in the cold weather states. I'm going to have to shell out the money for a nice coat to wear to the interviews and unless I match at one of the cold weather spots, I'll probably never wear the coat again !

As someone who moved to Chicago from Houston I can say from personal experience do not get a wool coat...if it is snowing or there is freezing rain it will get wet and really gross quickly. I actually found my first winter jacket at Marshalls. Living here for the past 4 years I can also say it is all about layers and outdoor coats don't have to look pretty or professional, they just have to be warm Good luck!!

I think the southerners here might be over-estimating the need for a heavy winter coat in this post-global warming world. Fluffy down coats are probably going to be overkill for most northern locations. I'm a northerner and it is the end of December and I have worn my winter coat once this year. I'm still doing fine in my fall coat. Last winter I didn't even need to use my shovel even once! Your suit jacket might be a little chilly, but you are unlikely to freeze to death in it.

That said, people who have never lived in cold weather seem to be more sensitive to it. And weather can change on a dime.

Lots of luck to all!
Dr. E

Thank you to all those who offered helpful suggestions....and to Member 099812 good luck on any of your interviews, you'll need it.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

Ok, I don't want to be the ******* here, but, I guess I will be for a moment. You're how old and you don't own a decent winter coat? I live in the south, and it definitely gets down into the 20's and 30's here in the winter, which of course requires a coat. I'd say anyone over the age of 20 needs to own at least some sort of passable outwear. Someone suggested a recycled/reused clothing thread? How about be an adult and invest in work-appropriate clothing?

I'm 25 and I don't have a coat. I live in central florida and it makes the news if it gets into the 40s. The average high in January is 72 degrees. Why would I own a coat?

Originally Posted by CourageToGrow

I'm 25 and I don't have a coat. I live in central florida and it makes the news if it gets into the 40s. The average high in January is 72 degrees. Why would I own a coat?

According to some: because buying "some sort of passable outwear" [sic] is a rite of passage to adulthood.

Another coatless-until-I-moved-away-from-a-warm-state person here.

For internship and job interviews in cold places, I (female) went with pant suits with dressy ankle boots. I happened to have a knee-length wool coat by then due to living in a colder climate, and it all worked out fine. My tips:

Be sure your coat will comfortably accommodate the shoulders of your suit – a tailored coat that fits fine over regular clothing might be a little uncomfortably snug over the suit.

At some sites you might be walking between buildings during the interview day, so you want reasonable shoes, outerwear that is relatively easy to navigate and carry, and adequate warmth for your legs.

Think about a coat with a detachable lining. London Fog makes trench coats like that (see overstock.com for very reasonable prices), and they should be warm enough for most climates when worn over a suit. Then if you don’t end up in a cold place, you can leave out the liner and wear just the lighter trench coat.

Don’t forget a scarf, gloves, and a loose knit winter hat (won’t muss your hair, but will keep your ears warm). These can more than make the difference sometimes.

Also agree that no one will judge you for choosing function over form in cold weather. Good luck!

As someone who lives in a northern state, I think you definitely need to wear some type of coat for an interview up here. Please don't run into the building in just your suit; you may slip and fall if it’s icy which could result in ripping your suit pants and being remembered for not the right reasons. Surely, this would be less desirable than wearing an "unprofessional looking" coat. At any rate get something. Maybe try looking on e-bay for something "cheaper" or going to a goodwill store to see if they have anything that would be appropriate and price conscious. I'm always surprised at the good finds you can get at Goodwill, it’s worth a shot!

Macy's has nice coats for good prices online.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

Ok, I don't want to be the ******* here, but, I guess I will be for a moment. You're how old and you don't own a decent winter coat? I live in the south, and it definitely gets down into the 20's and 30's here in the winter, which of course requires a coat. I'd say anyone over the age of 20 needs to own at least some sort of passable outwear. Someone suggested a recycled/reused clothing thread? How about be an adult and invest in work-appropriate clothing?

In his defense: I am from Germany and now live in the panhandle of FL. Last time I went to visit my mother, I left my coat there bc winters here are a joke. The three times it goes down in the 20s don't necessarily require a coat. A warm jacket, yes. But, IMHO, not a coat.

Lastly, no one needs to have anything, but an open mind and a little patience.
One size does not always fit all.

I think there's a difference between a warm coat for every day and a dress coat, for sure. I have warm coats, but they're not necessarily dressy. I opted for a charcoal, wool walker that looks really sharp. I do have a chocolate colored, long, leather trench-type coat which looks very nice but is super heavy in weight. I've always used that (and gotten lots of compliments on it), but wanted something lighter and more classic style. Macy's hooked me up. I'd also look at Marshall's if you have those in your area. Or eBay, of course.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

Ok, I don't want to be the ******* here, but, I guess I will be for a moment. You're how old and you don't own a decent winter coat? I live in the south, and it definitely gets down into the 20's and 30's here in the winter, which of course requires a coat. I'd say anyone over the age of 20 needs to own at least some sort of passable outwear. Someone suggested a recycled/reused clothing thread? How about be an adult and invest in work-appropriate clothing?

This is hilarious! I was thinking the same thing while reading this whole thread! I thought we would be discussing patterned shirts vs solid colors, not starting a coat charity for future doctors

Originally Posted by LMK

I think there's a difference between a warm coat for every day and a dress coat, for sure. I have warm coats, but they're not necessarily dressy. I opted for a charcoal, wool walker that looks really sharp. I do have a chocolate colored, long, leather trench-type coat which looks very nice but is super heavy in weight. I've always used that (and gotten lots of compliments on it), but wanted something lighter and more classic style. Macy's hooked me up. I'd also look at Marshall's if you have those in your area. Or eBay, of course.

I finally got my first real northerner coat from my mother-in-law for Christmas a few days ago after stupidly going for years in the Berkshires and NYC without one. It's this one, and it was 50% off at Sears: http://www.landsend.com/pp/mens-wool...245140_59.html

It's down-filled without making me look like a neon-colored Michelin Man, which is kind of hard to find. I totally recommend it.

As others have said, northerners generally recognize that below a certain temperature, function trumps all else. Many would judge you more harshly for wearing something stylish but insufficient than showing up for a job interview in a big ugly coat that is weather-appropriate.

All that said, maybe I'm biased by my love of travel but how can anyone be sure they wouldn't need one again? I've had conferences, workshops, and other professional travel up north during winter. That's even discounting personal travel for friends/family up north. Plus, there is the unfortunate reality that unless this is a TT job interview, its pretty unlikely this will be the last time you might have to move north.

Land's End and L.L. Bean both have serious down coats that have a smooth outer shell for reasonable prices. I ordered one a few years ago, and the winters have been mild since!

Originally Posted by I heart Ellis

I thought we would be discussing patterned shirts vs solid colors

Let's get back to the weighty issues then: where do you stand on the solid vs. pattern debate??

Originally Posted by becomethelight

Let's get back to the weighty issues then: where do you stand on the solid vs. pattern debate??

Haaaahaaa! This thread is so goofy! I'm glad that some of us (you and one other) can put this stuff in perspective. Buy a coat, a nice coat- then relax. You're not going to ruin an interview by wearing last years parka!

I too thought this thread would go a different way! To re-rail:

Always a suit, yes? For women: skirt or pants? Is it crazy to wear anything not black or navy with a white shirt?

Originally Posted by psych for path

I too thought this thread would go a different way! To re-rail:

Always a suit, yes? For women: skirt or pants? Is it crazy to wear anything not black or navy with a white shirt?

I wore dress brown/dark beige dress pants, with a red cami, and dark brown blazer. I think as long as you look professional, it doesn't matter.

I mean, really - does a professor truly care about your attire as long it's obvious that you didn't care how you come across?

Here's a question.... I have an interview that spans 2 days (multiple rotations for one site). I believe some of the same people will be at both. I put some money into a very nice suit. Do I need to get a second suit? Friends have advised me that I could get away with same suit, different blouse, but I went with a not-standard-black-suit look on advice from a professor. Thoughts?

As for coats.... Check the forecast before your trip. I live in the North and it's been shockingly warm this winter. Maybe you don't even need one. Otherwise, a couple of years ago I was desperate for a winter coat and got one that was actually very nice at Goodwill for less than $20.

Good luck everyone!

Originally Posted by I heart Ellis

Haaaahaaa! This thread is so goofy! I'm glad that some of us (you and one other) can put this stuff in perspective. Buy a coat, a nice coat- then relax. You're not going to ruin an interview by wearing last years parka!

Haha, glad you weren't deeply offended I'm sorry that my original comment came across as too harsh. I was just exasperated by what I perceived as a bit of cluelessness regarding clothing.

Truthfully, I think I'm sometimes a bit sensitive about being stereotyped as a graduate student who is an adult trapped in a perpetual adolescent/student mentality, and so I get particularly irritated when I see others in their late 20's and 30's continuing to play into that persona. I did not mean to offend anyone, sorry!

Originally Posted by IrishMK

Here's a question.... I have an interview that spans 2 days (multiple rotations for one site). I believe some of the same people will be at both. I put some money into a very nice suit. Do I need to get a second suit? Friends have advised me that I could get away with same suit, different blouse, but I went with a not-standard-black-suit look on advice from a professor. Thoughts?

As for coats.... Check the forecast before your trip. I live in the North and it's been shockingly warm this winter. Maybe you don't even need one. Otherwise, a couple of years ago I was desperate for a winter coat and got one that was actually very nice at Goodwill for less than $20.

Good luck everyone!

I think you're fine with just one suit but different blouse. I did that during grad school interviews and noticed that most people did the same as well.

Originally Posted by Member 099812

Haha, glad you weren't deeply offended I'm sorry that my original comment came across as too harsh. I was just exasperated by what I perceived as a bit of cluelessness regarding clothing.

Truthfully, I think I'm sometimes a bit sensitive about being stereotyped as a graduate student who is an adult trapped in a perpetual adolescent/student mentality, and so I get particularly irritated when I see others in their late 20's and 30's continuing to play into that persona. I did not mean to offend anyone, sorry!

I thought your post was clueless and irritating. Perhaps some of the south gets to the 20s but you apparently haven't spent a ton of time in areas where it really doesn't get much colder than the 50s and 60s. This is a stressful time but openness and decency are nice qualities to retain.

Originally Posted by psych for path

I too thought this thread would go a different way! To re-rail:

Always a suit, yes? For women: skirt or pants? Is it crazy to wear anything not black or navy with a white shirt?

I had a black suit but always wore some sort of colorful blouse under it. And I definitely saw the same people at more than one interview a couple of times, and wore the same suit proudly.

I'm also pretty sure that people are taking everything WAY too seriously in this thread. Who cares if someone thinks you should own a coat and you don't? Get one or don't get one, who cares? It's a message board, everyone take a breath.

Originally Posted by emily621

I'm also pretty sure that people are taking everything WAY too seriously in this thread. Who cares if someone thinks you should own a coat and you don't? Get one or don't get one, who cares? It's a message board, everyone take a breath.

I couldn't care less however the OP was distinctly rude and implied that not having a coat meant not being an adult. That's stupid.

Originally Posted by Marissa4usa

I wore dress brown/dark beige dress pants, with a red cami, and dark brown blazer. I think as long as you look professional, it doesn't matter.

I mean, really - does a professor truly care about your attire as long it's obvious that you didn't care how you come across?

Yes and No. Maybe not personally, but they will judge you on your appearances (who doesn't). Most likely, however, they look at you as a potential representative of their laboratory at conferences, in the department, ect.

So don't walk in there like you don't care. Regardless of that, not everyone is the fortunate situation of being able to afford expensive suiting, dress shoes, fine coats ect. - a little more (cultural) sensitivity in this discussion would be beneficial.

Former New Englander here. If you're a warm weather person interviewing in a cold weather area, I agree with what others have said - get a warm coat (secondhand if you want), and don't worry about looking cute, within reason (don't show up in a neon pink plaid coat that's older than you are). At least for women, cuter coats also tend to be less warm - an unlined pea coat is better than a windbreaker, but not by much, so it's okay to wear a puffy coat. Take slush into consideration.

ALSO: mittens or gloves! If it's freezing out and you put your hands in your coat pockets to keep them warm, you're more likely to lose your balance on the ice, and also more likely to land on your elbows if you fall. Especially if you're walking or taking public transit, it's better to keep your hands free, even if that means shelling out for some extra winter gear. If you do need to brace yourself, scraped palms are better than broken elbows!

Originally Posted by mab1894

Yes and No. Maybe not personally, but they will judge you on your appearances (who doesn't). Most likely, however, they look at you as a potential representative of their laboratory at conferences, in the department, ect.

Well, but that's exactly why I said the following

does a professor truly care about your attire as long it's obvious that you didn't care how you come across?

As long as you look put together (i. e. don't look like you don't give a damn), I doubt professors will care whether you wear a black or blue suit, a blue or white blouse, or slacks with a nice sweater.

Originally Posted by Marissa4usa

Well, but that's exactly why I said the following



As long as you look put together (i. e. don't look like you don't give a damn), I doubt professors will care whether you wear a black or blue suit, a blue or white blouse, or slacks with a nice sweater.

Some sites will let you know what colors NOT to wear on an interview (mainly forensic/correctional sites). For example, one site I am not allowed to wear blue and the interview scheduled for the next day does not allow khaki or brown. This is to help them distinguish visitors from inmates. Additionally, as a female interviewing at mostly forensic sites I will be avoiding anything that is not pants.

I tried to post before but my computer is showing that it disappeared.... Sorry if everyone else can still see it from before!

One site has a two-day interview. I went out and got a suit and am wondering if it's appropriate to repeat the suit both days. (I would change the shirt underneath.) I really can't afford to go buy a second suit for this, with all the travel expenses.

Thoughts?

I once got the advice (and I think it is sound) to wear an interesting accessory to make you more memorable, such as an interesting broach or scarf. Nothing crazy or unprofessional, of course. Not sure how this translates for men, but it probably matters less for them. Since so many fewer men apply, it is much easier for them to be remembered.

Happy interviewing,
Dr. E

Originally Posted by Doctor Eliza

Not sure how this translates for men, but it probably matters less for them. Since so many fewer men apply, it is much easier for them to be remembered.

Happy interviewing,
Dr. E

I always wear an interesting broach or scarf, and I think it makes me doubly remembered.

Originally Posted by PhDMiss2014

A friend of mine has offered to loan me her long down coat, but I didn't think it would be dressy enough. From your responses though it may be what I need. For one of my interviews I was able to find a hotel a half mile from the interview so I plan on walking to that interview from my hoteland will definitely need some type of coat. Initially I was thinking style over function, but may need to rethink that if y'all think it will be okay.

I agree with many of the posts about the coat not being too important since you are likely going to take it off as soon as you walk in the building.

I am sorry if this adds more stress to your plans but you might want to think about your shoe choice and the idea of walking half a mile. Of course this may depend on many factors such as the precipitation (ice, snow or general wetness!). If you will be in an urban area I would recommend having the hotel help you arrange for a cab if necessary. It should only be about $7. I lived in Boston for many years and walking was sometimes an obstacle course after a snow storm. While the sidewalks may be clear, the corners are full of puddles that involve hurdling into the crosswalk. It was somewhat fun in a pair of boots, but not what I would want to deal with dressed in slick-soled dress shoes!

I think it's overkill to have an entire post dedicated to how to dress for interviews. It adds unnecessary stress. At this point, most people have had practica sites, thesis defenses, and been in professional settings. I think most people know how to dress for interviews. It's pretty simple. Wear a gray, black, brown or deep blue suit (unless the site has specific stipulations). Dress shoes. Wear heels if you can walk in them comfortably given that sites give tours of their buildings. As long as you don't wear something obnoxious (e.g., 5' stilletos, skirt coming up to your crotch, jeans, lime green blazer), you'll be okay. When I met with potential interns last year, I don't recall any of the staff or other interns mentioning anyone's dress unless it was in a positive way (e.g., "I really liked his suit/her scarf/her shoes/etc"). What mattered more was their expressed interest, personality, and their experience.

I think a more useful post would be one dedicated how to negotiate the interview, such as which questions to ask, which questions to expect from the staff and DCT, etc.

Originally Posted by roubs

I always wear an interesting broach or scarf, and I think it makes me doubly remembered.

no feather boa?

Originally Posted by wigflip

no feather boa?

Please, that would be tacky.

I started this thread about interviewing FOR acceptance into a program, not an internship/fellowship- agree it would be overkill at that point in training, since you probably know the cultural norms pretty well