Men's Interview Clothing #3!

[Spector1]

Are these too informal for interview shoes?

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[BluMist]

definitely not a fashion expert, but both the color (light brown) and the pattern (brogue) seem to be on the informal side.

Are these too informal for interview shoes?

 

[medic86]

Are these too informal for interview shoes?

It'd be safer to get some cap toes in a darker shade, in my opinion.

 

[Dr Tony T. Chopper]

I think charcoal grey suit, white shirt with collar stays installed, blue tie, black matte/mirror polish shoes and a black belt is categorically the most optimal interview attire combination for men.

 

[El-Rami]

Are these too informal for interview shoes?

Oxfords before brogues.

 

[Glashutte32]

Oxfords before brogues.

It was a nice thought in that movie but it's doesn't mean much. Oxfords refer to closed lacing versus bluchers, which have open lacing like the shoes in that picture. Brogues refers to the perforations in the vamp/toe. One can easily have brogued oxfords - the two are not mutually exclusive

 

[username456789]

Thanks, these are the exact shoes I'm talking about:

View attachment 198302

You're telling me you can afford a pair of Marlows but can't afford a pair of cheap black shoes?

(For those not in the know, the shoes in the photo are shell cordovan wingtips sold by Ralph Lauren, made by Crockett and Jones - and retail currently at just south of $1,000.)

 

[username456789]

Too informal of a shade?

Absolutely.

Also, those specific shoes are an abomination, but I digress.

 

[IlyaR]

You're telling me you can afford a pair of Marlows but can't afford a pair of cheap black shoes?

(For those not in the know, the shoes in the photo are shell cordovan wingtips sold by Ralph Lauren, made by Crockett and Jones - and retail currently at just south of $1,000.)

Yep. Got them on one of the 45%+15% extra sales a few years back. Things change you know

 

[El-Rami]

I'm looking to expand my wardrobe and am just wondering what SDN's thoughts are for the following ties. They will be used for interviews. My suit is charcoal with a pale blue shirt. They are not patterned.

https://goo.gl/UFIufI
https://goo.gl/2iRDjW
http://goo.gl/0Ufx2V

For the first tie, I was wondering whether or not white pencil pinstripes would be a good choice. The "classic navy" version of this tie is my personal favorite. The second tie looks all right with navy, but I'm not sure if it will look best for an interview. The last tie is really nice, but unfortunately the navy is sold out. There are burgundy and grey versions available, but I have heard that red/burgundy ties are inappropriate for interviews. The grey might work, but I fear it also may blend in too well with my charcoal suit.

I am currently leaning towards the navy pinstripe tie. What are your thoughts? Also, what do you think about the Tie Bar? I hear the quality is decent for formal occasions, and people like to use this company to buy ties for work.

 

[medic86]

I think they would all look pretty good with the suit you describe.

I'm no expert, though.

 

[Styrene]

I'm looking to expand my wardrobe and am just wondering what SDN's thoughts are for the following ties. They will be used for interviews. My suit is charcoal with a pale blue shirt. They are not patterned.

https://goo.gl/UFIufI
https://goo.gl/2iRDjW
http://goo.gl/0Ufx2V

For the first tie, I was wondering whether or not white pencil pinstripes would be a good choice. The "classic navy" version of this tie is my personal favorite. The second tie looks all right with navy, but I'm not sure if it will look best for an interview. The last tie is really nice, but unfortunately the navy is sold out. There are burgundy and grey versions available, but I have heard that red/burgundy ties are inappropriate for interviews. The grey might work, but I fear it also may blend in too well with my charcoal suit.

I am currently leaning towards the navy pinstripe tie. What are your thoughts? Also, what do you think about the Tie Bar? I hear the quality is decent for formal occasions, and people like to use this company to buy ties for work.

Navy stripe and burgundy both work very well for a charcoal suit. Burgundy is not inappropriate neckwear for any occasion. Just don't wear a fat, fire engine red Donald Trump tie -- that's the red that is inappropriate.

 

[ThiaminePyroPhosphate]

I'm wearing a navy suit, and I bought this tie to go with it. Is it okay for interviews?
http://www.express.com/clothing/men/dot-narrow-silk-blend-tie-to-navy/pro/prod1230004/cat1780008
The problem is the dots might be too big.

 

[DokterMom]

I'm wearing a navy suit, and I bought this tie to go with it. Is it okay for interviews?
http://www.express.com/clothing/men/dot-narrow-silk-blend-tie-to-navy/pro/prod1230004/cat1780008
The problem is the dots might be too big.

That tie is perfect for the styling shown in the picture -- ie. plaid shirt and casual pants. The denim-ish fabric is, in my opinion, too casual for an interview look. The color and pattern are good though. Just go for a silk with a bit more sheen. (NOT shine, sheen.)

Navy stripe and burgundy both work very well for a charcoal suit. Burgundy is not inappropriate neckwear for any occasion. Just don't wear a fat, fire engine red Donald Trump tie -- that's the red that is inappropriate.

I don't know where the "no red" prejudice comes from, unless it's from the nasty AWFUL fire engine red satin crap Donald trump wears. TACKY! Avoid shiny satin ties at all costs, with the ONLY exceptions being (perhaps) white and silver with tuxedos/tailcoats. Otherwise, never.

But a rich burgundy tie in a textured silk weave or small pattern? One of the best and most versatile ties out there anywhere.

 

[ThiaminePyroPhosphate]

That tie is perfect for the styling shown in the picture -- ie. plaid shirt and casual pants. The denim-ish fabric is, in my opinion, too casual for an interview look. The color and pattern are good though. Just go for a silk with a bit more sheen. (NOT shine, sheen.)

Thanks!

I might just go with a plain solid black tie or the polka dot one I posted, if I can't find anything. I need it soon, so it doesn't leave a lot of time to get things shipped.

Thanks, are any of these ties any better? (I can go to the store and get them)
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/mens/ties-bowties/vintage-stripe-silk-tie
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/st.../textured-striped-silk-tie-0019-k1cb-b201--24
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/st...bowties/tonal-dot-silk-tie-0019-k7cb-b840--24

How about these ties? (I need to get it shipped since I live in Canada, so it's not ideal that I get it from here )
http://www.josbank.com/red-pindot-tie
http://www.josbank.com/1905-dot-tie

Also, what are your thoughts on diagonal patterned or plaid ties for interviews?

 

[El-Rami]

Thanks!

I might just go with a plain solid black tie or the polka dot one I posted, if I can't find anything. I need it soon, so it doesn't leave a lot of time to get things shipped.

Thanks, are any of these ties any better? (I can go to the store and get them)
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/mens/ties-bowties/vintage-stripe-silk-tie
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/st.../textured-striped-silk-tie-0019-k1cb-b201--24
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/st...bowties/tonal-dot-silk-tie-0019-k7cb-b840--24

How about these ties? (I need to get it shipped since I live in Canada, so it's not ideal that I get it from here )
http://www.josbank.com/red-pindot-tie
http://www.josbank.com/1905-dot-tie

Also, what are your thoughts on diagonal patterned or plaid ties for interviews?

The ties on TheBay that you listed are casual. The last one is pretty fugly. The first Jos A Bank tie looks good in burgundy. The second doesn't look right.

Get something with pindots or stripes. This is a pretty good example of a conservative striped tie (although the colors are bad):

http://www.josbank.com/executive-wide-repp-thin-stripe-tie-8JCV

 

[DokterMom]

Thanks!

I might just go with a plain solid black tie or the polka dot one I posted, if I can't find anything. I need it soon, so it doesn't leave a lot of time to get things shipped.

Thanks, are any of these ties any better? (I can go to the store and get them)
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/en/thebay/mens/ties-bowties/vintage-stripe-silk-tie
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/st.../textured-striped-silk-tie-0019-k1cb-b201--24
http://www.thebay.com/webapp/wcs/st...bowties/tonal-dot-silk-tie-0019-k7cb-b840--24

How about these ties? (I need to get it shipped since I live in Canada, so it's not ideal that I get it from here )
http://www.josbank.com/red-pindot-tie
http://www.josbank.com/1905-dot-tie

Also, what are your thoughts on diagonal patterned or plaid ties for interviews?

Do NOT wear a solid black tie for anything but a funeral. Much too depressing/somber, and virtually no contrast to your suit. Your tie is your only real opportunity to show some personality while also being interview-appropriate. Seize that opportunity.

I LOVE online shopping -- but that said, would NEVER buy a tie online without knowing a LOT about the maker and having excellent photographs of the fabric. For neckties, the quality of fabric is essential, and something you must see and feel in person to be able to evaluate. You want a fabric that's relatively heavy to the hand, feels silky and sumptuous, but also has some texture to it. While pin dots and thin stripes are certainly safe, they're also boring.

If you're a Tie Bar guy, try the "Grenafaux", the "Herringbone" or the "Solid Texture" ties. If you've got time to actually go to a store, look at those ties online and buy something along those lines. Where to shop? -- I'd try Steinmart and/or Macy's.

Forgot your other questions: Diagonal stripes are fine and very traditional, provided the colors aren't awful. Plaid is NOT what you're looking for unless you're really fashion-savvy and can find the absolutely perfect tie for the weave of your suit.

 

[ThiaminePyroPhosphate]

Do NOT wear a solid black tie for anything but a funeral. Much too depressing/somber, and virtually no contrast to your suit. Your tie is your only real opportunity to show some personality while also being interview-appropriate. Seize that opportunity.

I LOVE online shopping -- but that said, would NEVER buy a tie online without knowing a LOT about the maker and having excellent photographs of the fabric. For neckties, the quality of fabric is essential, and something you must see and feel in person to be able to evaluate. You want a fabric that's relatively heavy to the hand, feels silky and sumptuous, but also has some texture to it. While pin dots and thin stripes are certainly safe, they're also boring.

If you're a Tie Bar guy, try the "Grenafaux", the "Herringbone" or the "Solid Texture" ties. If you've got time to actually go to a store, look at those ties online and buy something along those lines. Where to shop? -- I'd try Steinmart and/or Macy's.

Forgot your other questions: Diagonal stripes are fine and very traditional, provided the colors aren't awful. Plaid is NOT what you're looking for unless you're really fashion-savvy and can find the absolutely perfect tie for the weave of your suit.

For ties, what are some colours that go with a navy suit + white shirt?

 

[oshanimalia]

general guideline (credit to Reddit):
charcoal + black/dark brown is probably a safe option

I feel like jerry talking to Tom Haverford about memorial ribbons when it came to navy, charcoal, and black

 

[DokterMom]

For ties, what are some colours that go with a navy suit + white shirt?

Most colors can work with a navy suit and white shirt. Colors that would NOT work are black, navy, brown or dark greens and greys -- you want some contrast and 'brightening'.

My first choice would be burgundy, as pictured and described above. A medium blue would also work -- darker than sky or baby blue but lighter than royal. Yellow to gold can also be a good choice. Purples and greens might work, but could also fail.

 

[BluMist]

it is much more obvious in person (or on 4K TV)

 

[ThiaminePyroPhosphate]

I checked some burgundy ties at the store, most of them were big wide ties. These two burgundy-reddish ties were the only decent ones. I attached the images. Are these any good? Which one is better for a navy suit + white shirt combo?

One is a plain reddish tie. The other one is a burgundy-purple tie with a simple pattern on it.

 

[raiderette]

I like the darker tie with the pattern.

 

[El-Rami]

I checked some burgundy ties at the store, most of them were big wide ties. These two burgundy-reddish ties were the only decent ones. I attached the images. Are these any good? Which one is better for a navy suit + white shirt combo?

One is a plain reddish tie. The other one is a burgundy-purple tie with a simple pattern on it.

Darker tie with pattern is the better one. I really like it.

 

[DokterMom]

I checked some burgundy ties at the store, most of them were big wide ties. These two burgundy-reddish ties were the only decent ones. I attached the images. Are these any good? Which one is better for a navy suit + white shirt combo?

One is a plain reddish tie. The other one is a burgundy-purple tie with a simple pattern on it.

Agreed -- The darker herringbone tie is very nice and very appropriate. The first is too red and too satiny.

 

[deleted573262]

.

 

[El-Rami]

I have a navy suit and am debating between brown shoes. Would these rockport loafers be appropriate?

I think the color is great, but loafers aren't the best choice.

 

[Squamous Eddie]

So I have two more II's coming up, to basically my #1 and #2 choices, no less! Came one after the other, huge shock to me. My last interview was a while ago, and after reading through this thread afterwards, I'm kind of kicking myself. At my last three, I wore solid suit, shirt, and tie, not knowing any better (gray/white/blue). I did get in to one, but I want to do these next two better.

First: Can our resident tie expert @DokterMom comment on the selection of ties in this gallery?



You may have to click the gear in the top right to view them at full resolution. They don't all have the same patterns.

(Image 5 contains a final, 6th tie under consideration that I forgot to take an actual picture of. It's in the upper right, another red but actual pindot rather than squared.)

I'm wearing a navy suit, either a white or light blue shirt, and am having trouble deciding on a tie. I'm not a fan of stripes but wanted a modestly patterned tie, and I love the pindot style and its ilk. IMO Yellow is a bit of an ugly tie color with few exceptions, so I'd like to stay away from that. Not too excited about green, either, but I could be convinced. Not sure what other colors are appropriate.
The first two are silk from Brooks Brothers. Based on past advice from this thread, I'm leaning towards the red as it contrasts the navy better. I love the blue tie more, but it's a bit too dark to wear with a navy suit, I imagine...? Also, I altered the lighting so that the shades in the pictures are pretty accurate to real life.

The remaining four I found at Nordstrom. Their shades are also pretty accurate to life, but looking back on them now, I can't help but feel they're a bit too wide (a shame because I really liked them all); I don't believe my lapels are that wide, though I would have to go back and measure. #3 (dark blue, solid/textured) is not silk; not sure what it was. It was very soft, and "limp" to the touch. Probably my least favorite of the bunch. I don't remember what #4-6 were, but they all felt similar to each other, and pretty similar to #1 and 2, so I would hazard a guess at silk as well, but I could be very wrong.

I'm considering taking my suit into Brooks Brothers tomorrow with me to get their opinion on its fit, as well. I'm no good with this kind of stuff; I never paid much heed to dressing really nicely and making sure things actually fit properly until last year, and certainly didn't learn anything from my dad. They tailor, right? How long does that usually take?

Second, suggestions on shoes would also be very welcome. I've been using an old black pair that I got back in what must have been high school. I'll post a picture later if I can. Looking to get a brown pair to complement the navy suit. Not a huge fan of capped toes, even less of brogue. I am amenable to this one, though: http://cdnl.gentlemansgazette.com/w...p-Toe-Oxford-with-Broguing-on-the-toe-cap.jpg
I also like this one: http://www.dsw.com/shoe/aldo+reni+oxford?prodId=344569&productRef=CROSS: in either brown or tan.

And finally, as far as some miscellaneous do's/don'ts go... do I have these right?

• Tie should reach the belt
• Tie's thickness should be the same as the lapel at both's thickest points
• Half Windsor is preferable?
• Belt matches the shoes
• Socks match the trousers
• No pocket square or tie clip
• No cologne
• Shaved face. Gonna ignore this one, the beard is part of my identity by this point and I'd feel very naked and self-conscious without it. Plus, I already sent in pictures of myself with the beard, so gotta keep up expectations. It will, of course, be neatly trimmed.

Anything else? Really want to knock these last two IIs out of the park. Thanks to anyone and everyone for their help, and also for 77 pages of wise advice. I don't think I've ever learned as much about men's formalwear as I have in ~20 pages of this thread.

 

[DokterMom]

You're good @BreakneckWalrus !

I agree with your tie assessment that the blues are likely to be too somber and the deep reds are probably the better choice. All of the reds you posted are similar, so go with the one that looks richest and costs less. You shouldn't have to spend more than $40 for a tie like that, so head over to Macy's if Nordstrom's or BB are too much. You've got a bit of leeway in your tie width, so don't get hung up on an exact match -- if your tie is within 1/2" +/- of your lapel width, that's certainly 'same' enough.

How long it takes to tailor depends on what needs to be done. Some alterations are easy; others not so much. You may be able to find a local place that's cheaper and faster.

I prefer the first pair of shoes over the second. Darker brown more than tan. Black is also fine with navy if money's an object --

Good Luck and congratulations!

 

[Mr Magpie]

@BreakneckWalrus

You might not the look of cap toe shoes but they are the most standard. The aldo reni shoe you linked is a little too informal compared to that AE cap toe oxford.

For ties, I prefer pin dots over stripes too. I think red is a good choice, but like DokterMom mentioned, a deeper shade is better. Think closer to burgundy. Grenadine ties are great too if you want a more textured solid color look:

 

[Squamous Eddie]

So after following a bunch of advice from this thread, I think I've fixed my wardrobe and will be able to walk into my last few interviews dressed much better than I have been. The last point of contention is facial hair.

On all my secondaries, I sent in a photo of myself with a trimmed beard. And for my last 3 interviews, I made sure to do the same before going in. I've heard some say that if I sent in a picture with myself in a beard, that I should keep the beard. But general consensus is to shave it, as I risk offending the fewest amount of people that way. After some thought, I'm actually not that averse to shaving it. It'll grow back eventually. I just don't know whether it's the right call given the picture I sent in.

Greatly appreciate any advice! @gyngyn, @DokterMom, @Winged Scapula.

 

[gyngyn]

So after following a bunch of advice from this thread, I think I've fixed my wardrobe and will be able to walk into my last few interviews dressed much better than I have been. The last point of contention is facial hair.

On all my secondaries, I sent in a photo of myself with a trimmed beard. And for my last 3 interviews, I made sure to do the same before going in. I've heard some say that if I sent in a picture with myself in a beard, that I should keep the beard. But general consensus is to shave it, as I risk offending the fewest amount of people that way. After some thought, I'm actually not that averse to shaving it. It'll grow back eventually. I just don't know whether it's the right call given the picture I sent in.

Greatly appreciate any advice! @gyngyn, @DokterMom, @Winged Scapula.

Shave. It's not worth worrying about.

 

[Winged Scapula]

So after following a bunch of advice from this thread, I think I've fixed my wardrobe and will be able to walk into my last few interviews dressed much better than I have been. The last point of contention is facial hair.

On all my secondaries, I sent in a photo of myself with a trimmed beard. And for my last 3 interviews, I made sure to do the same before going in. I've heard some say that if I sent in a picture with myself in a beard, that I should keep the beard. But general consensus is to shave it, as I risk offending the fewest amount of people that way. After some thought, I'm actually not that averse to shaving it. It'll grow back eventually. I just don't know whether it's the right call given the picture I sent in.

Greatly appreciate any advice! @gyngyn, @DokterMom, @Winged Scapula.

I believe you're overthinking this. In general the best advice is to shave. Don't be concerned about the difference in your appearance between the application photo and your current appearance. Most of us can understand the reason for that

 

[Squamous Eddie]

Thanks. You guys are the best. So long, beard.

What're your opinions on pant cuffs? Should they have them? Also, how high should pants be worn on the waist? I'm actually not sure how high is considered too high. Lol.

Another thing: I have an olive complexion, and the tone of my skin is slightly perceptible under the white cotton shirt I have. It's not that noticeable, but it's an issue I've had with most white shirts. It's only really noticeable if you look for it, I feel, but I'm not sure if it's worth fixing or not. Could I just wear a white undershirt or something?

I should add that I'm wearing a navy suit. I do have a light blue shirt I could wear, instead. Would a maroon tie be okay with a blue shirt? Light blue on navy isn't too much blue, is it?

 

[El-Rami]

Thanks. You guys are the best. So long, beard.

What're your opinions on pant cuffs? Should they have them? Also, how high should pants be worn on the waist? I'm actually not sure how high is considered too high. Lol.

Another thing: I have an olive complexion, and the tone of my skin is slightly perceptible under the white cotton shirt I have. It's not that noticeable, but it's an issue I've had with most white shirts. It's only really noticeable if you look for it, I feel, but I'm not sure if it's worth fixing or not. Could I just wear a white undershirt or something?

I should add that I'm wearing a navy suit. I do have a light blue shirt I could wear, instead. Would a maroon tie be okay with a blue shirt? Light blue on navy isn't too much blue, is it?

Cuffs on pants make short guys look even shorter. It isn't something that an interviewer is going to care about obviously, but going without the cuffs is optimal.

Wear an undershirt.

Burgundy ties look pretty awesome with blue shirts. Since you are wearing a navy suit, just go with a burgundy tie and blue shirt for contrast. If you don't like the combination, just exchange the blue shirt for a white one.

 

[gyngyn]

Cuffs on pants make short guys look even shorter. It isn't something that an interviewer is going to care about obviously, but going without the cuffs is optimal.

Wear an undershirt.

Burgundy ties look pretty awesome with blue shirts. Since you are wearing a navy suit, just go with a burgundy tie and blue shirt for contrast. If you don't like the combination, just exchange the blue shirt for a white one.

I agree. A very light blue shirt, though. A dark shirt is too gigolo.

 

[Reckoner]

Another thing: I have an olive complexion, and the tone of my skin is slightly perceptible under the white cotton shirt I have. It's not that noticeable, but it's an issue I've had with most white shirts. It's only really noticeable if you look for it, I feel, but I'm not sure if it's worth fixing or not. Could I just wear a white undershirt or something?

Definitely a good idea to wear an undershirt regardless of the color. Interviews have a way of making people sweat like Mark Davis in a barbershop

 

[Squamous Eddie]

I don't find myself getting sweaty, really. I'm going down to Miami, so I feel like if I wore an undershirt, I'd just be far too warm. It'll be 80° the day of the interview. Strong chance of rain. I'll wear it if I decide on the white, though. Probably will skip if I do blue. The blue shirt is lightly textured. Here's a pic:
Please zoom in to see what the texture looks like. Lighting isn't the best; the tie is actually a little darker than it appears. Is this fine, or should I stick to the white shirt?

Somewhat unrelated: Wtf do I do with my hands while I'm interviewing? I've typically just kept them together on the table, sometimes I'll gesture with them if I'm talking, but otherwise that's their resting position. Is that fine, or should I maybe keep them in my lap...?

 

[El-Rami]

I don't find myself getting sweaty, really. I'm going down to Miami, so I feel like if I wore an undershirt, I'd just be far too warm. It'll be 80° the day of the interview. Strong chance of rain. I'll wear it if I decide on the white, though. Probably will skip if I do blue. The blue shirt is lightly textured. Here's a pic:
Please zoom in to see what the texture looks like. Lighting isn't the best; the tie is actually a little darker than it appears. Is this fine, or should I stick to the white shirt?

Somewhat unrelated: Wtf do I do with my hands while I'm interviewing? I've typically just kept them together on the table, sometimes I'll gesture with them if I'm talking, but otherwise that's their resting position. Is that fine, or should I maybe keep them in my lap...?

I would wear an undershirt regardless. It's up to you, though. From my experience, interviewers don't seem to care a whole lot as long as you keep yourself properly dressed. Small details like tie dimples and undershirts are likely to go unnoticed. You are likely to be better dressed than your interviewers, which is okay. Just don't go to your interviewers in casual business attire because you WILL stick out like a sore thumb.

As for your hands, I would just place them on the table. If you get nervous, you may get carried away with gestures. This may be distracting. I personally keep my hands together on the table by interlocking my fingers when I interview. I find that it keeps me from fidgeting with my thumbs, and it isn't distracting. Just be sure to RELAX.

 

[ridethecliche]

I went to all my interviews with a beard and I got into a few of them. As long as your beard is neatly groomed you're fine. I've had one for years now and didn't see myself shaving it off to conform to some stupid norm when I was living a professional life with one.

 

[dabake]

So I wanted some opinions regarding what to wear now that cold weather and snow is coming through. I'm originally from the Midwest so I'm used to the cold, but have been living in Texas for the past few years so I haven't invested in proper "formal" cold weather gear that fits. I have an interview this week back in the Midwest, so I was wondering what to wear. Should I find a nice pea coat to wear over my suit or will the suit coat itself be enough to keep me warm?

 

[Mr Magpie]

So I wanted some opinions regarding what to wear now that cold weather and snow is coming through. I'm originally from the Midwest so I'm used to the cold, but have been living in Texas for the past few years so I haven't invested in proper "formal" cold weather gear that fits. I have an interview this week back in the Midwest, so I was wondering what to wear. Should I find a nice pea coat to wear over my suit or will the suit coat itself be enough to keep me warm?

I'd recommend something to wear over the suit pending how long you'll be outdoors like a medium length pea coat (so below your waist for sure) just to be safe. Most schools will have coat racks to hang them during the interview day so you don't have to worry about carrying it around. Make sure it's wool too!

 

[Glashutte32]

So I wanted some opinions regarding what to wear now that cold weather and snow is coming through. I'm originally from the Midwest so I'm used to the cold, but have been living in Texas for the past few years so I haven't invested in proper "formal" cold weather gear that fits. I have an interview this week back in the Midwest, so I was wondering what to wear. Should I find a nice pea coat to wear over my suit or will the suit coat itself be enough to keep me warm?

Chicago and Minneapolis were both scraping 0 degrees today so I'd say get something to put over the suit. A peacoat will work but you could also look into something like a wool topcoat, which is a little more formal. My go-to for cold weather with a suit is the Barbour Beaufort model (which doesn't really fit into either of my suggestions) because it's weatherproof but not suffocatingly warm and covers the suit jacket well.

 

[Squamous Eddie]

I went to all my interviews with a beard and I got into a few of them. As long as your beard is neatly groomed you're fine. I've had one for years now and didn't see myself shaving it off to conform to some stupid norm when I was living a professional life with one.

I feel like it's a little different if you have a professional life before applying. I'm a trad student, applying right out of undergrad. As I'm sure gyngyn will say, med school interviews are a great time to avoid trying to buck norms. I think I look better with it, personally, and most of my family and friends will agree. But I think there will always be that little nagging feeling that one of the people I met on interview day won't see it the same way. No need to take chances when they're my top choices.

 

[ridethecliche]

Chicago and Minneapolis were both scraping 0 degrees today so I'd say get something to put over the suit. A peacoat will work but you could also look into something like a wool topcoat, which is a little more formal. My go-to for cold weather with a suit is the Barbour Beaufort model (which doesn't really fit into either of my suggestions) because it's weatherproof but not suffocatingly warm and covers the suit jacket well.

This is not appropriate from a conservative dress standpoint, but if you take it off at a reception area etc before you interview I wouldn't worry about it. I wore a jacket with an umbrella if it was raining or a top coat if it was snowing. I have a calf length coat for interview settings.

This isn't that big of a deal though. Make sure you carry your nice shoes in a bag and change into them when you get to the interview venue (before checking in). You don't want to ruin leather shoes in the rain/slush if you're going to have to trudge through it.

 

[nRomaleos]

i am unsure why this thread makes me chuckle.

During my neurotic moments, I was almost convinced that my brown shoes were too outlandish and costed me an acceptance. Even better was that my navy tie was just too plain for a navy suit.

However, I do admit that I am a bit hesitant to wear my favorite grey suit, since it's on the lighter/spring side of things.

 

[El-Rami]

i am unsure why this thread makes me chuckle.

During my neurotic moments, I was almost convinced that my brown shoes were too outlandish and costed me an acceptance. Even better was that my navy tie was just too plain for a navy suit.

However, I do admit that I am a bit hesitant to wear my favorite grey suit, since it's on the lighter/spring side of things.

Aim for 80% of the advice here and you'll be fine. Seriously. Then again, some free fashion advice is nice, too.

I saw a guy at an interview who tried too hard to get a perfect tie dimple. It made his tie look like a vulva... No one is going to care if you have a tie dimple - just don't show up in wrinkled clothes. Wear a suit that fits decently well, a dress shirt, tie, and dress shoes.

A guy got burned by people in this thread for wearing a light grey suit with pointed lapels and a slightly too long break on his pants. Honestly, this guy's suit would have worked for his interview (although maybe he could have gotten his pants hemmed) despite the pedantic criticism in this thread...

 

[ridethecliche]

My advice is geared more towards the person that is looking to buy something. I've also made suggestions for people that are trying to work with what they have.

The big issue is that there are 'fashion' suits and 'business' suits and people on a budget have a hard time telling them apart. You can sometimes get away with some of the former...yes even HM suits etc, but they have to fit well and be the right color. Super thin lapels, short jackets, skinny pants, etc will make you look out of place.

Full disclosure: The cycle is expensive. I thrifted and bought most of my dress stuff on ebay.

 

[Mr Magpie]

Full disclosure: The cycle is expensive. I thrifted and bought most of my dress stuff on ebay.

To add on this, for those of you who are not too familiar with your size, go to a department store like macys or something and usually an associate can help you with that (or you can just try on jackets/pants if you know what a good fit looks like).

The thing with suits is that they are worn infrequently (outside of jobs requiring them) so a used suit can be in pretty nice condition. Also, don't worry if a decent suit in your price range runs a little big on the jacket length or pants. These are relatively easy fixes to tailor and will still be cheaper than buying new. Pants can also be let out at the waist generally 1-3 inches pending the make.

To get out any wrinkles go to a dry cleaner and request the suit be pressed--don't dry clean it unless it's actually dirty. Should be around 10 bucks if that.

 

[Squamous Eddie]

Yep, I had mine pressed before my last interview for $7. YMMV, but they did it in a few minutes while I waited.

Also, thanks to everyone on this thread for all the excellent advice. I went to my most recent interview way better dressed than I was at the previous ones. Felt really sharp. Funny how many fashion faux pas you notice on interview day when you know what's "right/better".