Women's Interview Clothing #3!

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gyngyn said:
It's a wrong choice on many levels, sorry.
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Okay, gotcha! Just wanted to double-check.
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toffee_bloom said:
Okay so I went suit shopping yesterday and I tried on some for fitting. I'm like 5'2 so I was hoping that my heels would be enough that I wouldn't have to get it in petite, so I tried on a size 10 and the fit was pretty good, the pants were maybe a little long but not hitting the floor. However, it was slightly loose and I don't want to pay the money to get things altered/taken in.

BUT, I was planning on losing 10-15 lbs this summer and I know interviews don't start until about August at the earliest (so I feel like doing it is feasible). Now I haven't bought anything yet, but I've been guestimating that if I lose that weight a size 8 or 10P suit would fit me well. What I'm scared is that I may not reach my target weight because, the process of losing weight is like, terrible for me. So I don't know if I should wait or what....

Ugh, and that suit I tried on was on sale for $70 too, I wanted to buy it right then so badly.
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The money you spend on alterations will be the best money you spend this interview cycle! Consider it part of the price of the suit -- And don't buy a smaller size planning to lose weight. Instead, if you've got a month or two, give yourself some time to actually lose the weight, then either return the suit if you've lost too much (such problems to have...) or have the suit tailored (with a week to spare) to fit the size you are at the time.
 
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DokterMom said:
The money you spend on alterations will be the best money you spend this interview cycle! Consider it part of the price of the suit -- And don't buy a smaller size planning to lose weight. Instead, if you've got a month or two, give yourself some time to actually lose the weight, then either return the suit if you've lost too much (such problems to have...) or have the suit tailored (with a week to spare) to fit the size you are at the time.
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Yeah, it would be really risky if I bought a smaller size and didn't end up fitting in it. I will probably get a suit close to my current size (maybe a smidgen smaller) and no matter what happens if the fit is not perfect get it altered at the beginning of August or so.

As for hairstyles, what do you think is the best route to go? I have very long, wavy black hair and I've read that wearing just that down is unprofessional, and to either wear it straight but behind the shoulders or to put it in a bun. I try to avoid putting heat on my hair but I would consider straightening it because I feel like when I put my hair up, especially in a bun, it just looks bad. I dunno. I'm trying to look up hairstyles that would work for me.
 
toffee_bloom said:
Yeah, it would be really risky if I bought a smaller size and didn't end up fitting in it. I will probably get a suit close to my current size (maybe a smidgen smaller) and no matter what happens if the fit is not perfect get it altered at the beginning of August or so.

As for hairstyles, what do you think is the best route to go? I have very long, wavy black hair and I've read that wearing just that down is unprofessional, and to either wear it straight but behind the shoulders or to put it in a bun. I try to avoid putting heat on my hair but I would consider straightening it because I feel like when I put my hair up, especially in a bun, it just looks bad. I dunno. I'm trying to look up hairstyles that would work for me.
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A bun can look quite severe in an 'artificial' way if not done well. And if that's not bad enough, if it's really done well, it can look too glamorous -- though a French Twist is never out of place if it suits your face. Part up, where the front is pulled back and the back is left long is generally a good professional look, as is a low smooth ponytail. Maybe you can post some pictures of styles you're considering?
 
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DokterMom said:
A bun can look quite severe in an 'artificial' way if not done well. And if that's not bad enough, if it's really done well, it can look too glamorous -- though a French Twist is never out of place if it suits your face. Part up, where the front is pulled back and the back is left long is generally a good professional look, as is a low smooth ponytail. Maybe you can post some pictures of styles you're considering?
Click to expand...

Well, here's kind of what I have been looking at for my hair length/thickness (all from Pinterest, I don't know how people use this religiously, I actually found it really hard to find what I was looking for):

I'm kind of liking the sleek ponytail look, I feel like it would be easy for me to do. Is adding the "bump" okay though or is veering more toward fashion rather than professionalism?

Low ponytail:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/188658671865800419/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/377176537519733260/

High ponytail:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/433612270347147378/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/17873729742312364/

As for buns, I don't know why I just have never really incorporated them into my hairstyle repertoire. I always feel like they look too much like a prom or wedding updo and if I ever tried to make one it always turned out messy, even if I was trying to go for neat. So there were only a couple that spoke to me:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/Aa80Ie2a79ie4JHl_LAJI05bwzloS4XeqFaZF951gSNruK41hKMuKD8/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/479000110343110300/
 
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toffee_bloom said:
Well, here's kind of what I have been looking at for my hair length/thickness (all from Pinterest, I don't know how people use this religiously, I actually found it really hard to find what I was looking for):

I'm kind of liking the sleek ponytail look, I feel like it would be easy for me to do. Is adding the "bump" okay though or is veering more toward fashion rather than professionalism?

Low ponytail:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/188658671865800419/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/377176537519733260/

High ponytail:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/433612270347147378/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/17873729742312364/

As for buns, I don't know why I just have never really incorporated them into my hairstyle repertoire. I always feel like they look too much like a prom or wedding updo and if I ever tried to make one it always turned out messy, even if I was trying to go for neat. So there were only a couple that spoke to me:
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/Aa80Ie2a79ie4JHl_LAJI05bwzloS4XeqFaZF951gSNruK41hKMuKD8/
https://www.pinterest.com/pin/479000110343110300/
Click to expand...
Low pony, good.
High pony, bad.
Bun, could be either dependent on execution.

I feel like a character from G Orwell...
 
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I've been told that wearing your hair down is an absolute no, but is that really the case for all women? I have hair that is just past my shoulders when I pull it straight (which I do every day so that it doesn't look messy). If I wear it in a low ponytail, it looks kind of like I'm getting ready to work out because it's so short. There isn't enough hair for a bun or a braid. Is down okay?
 
nwts said:
I've been told that wearing your hair down is an absolute no, but is that really the case for all women? I have hair that is just past my shoulders when I pull it straight (which I do every day so that it doesn't look messy). If I wear it in a low ponytail, it looks kind of like I'm getting ready to work out because it's so short. There isn't enough hair for a bun or a braid. Is down okay?
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Yes its fine to wear it down; just make sure its off your face. That usually means pulling the side pieces back.
 
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gyngyn said:
Oh no.
How about a nice shell with a bateau neckline in a contrasting shade to your suit?
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Winged Scapula said:
Nope.

Its cute, with a subtle cowboy vibe.

But its not right with a suit or for your interview. Like @gyngyn says, a nice shell or bateau neckline is better.
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Okay thanks. I'll discard this option. I can see how it gives off a cowboy vibe…

Is there a reason shells are preferred? I was thinking a button down shirt would be okay.
 
northernlights15 said:
Okay thanks. I'll discard this option. I can see how it gives off a cowboy vibe…

Is there a reason shells are preferred? I was thinking a button down shirt would be okay.
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Button front shirts are not flattering on most women and you run the risk of potentially popping a button or having gaps between the buttons exposing yourself.

In addition with the oft advised white cotton button front shirt, you run the risk of looking like a corporate drone. For women there are just many more flattering and appropriate options.

Finally, while a shell is a great option, remember to keep your jacket on. Otherwise you may feel more comfortable wearing something with sleeves.
 
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By the way, a little semantics lesson:

A button down shirt is that thing that your cute fraternity boyfriend bought from J.Crew with the buttons on the collar.

A button front shirt or blouse is more formal and has no buttons on the collar
 
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northernlights15 said:
Okay thanks. I'll discard this option. I can see how it gives off a cowboy vibe…

Is there a reason shells are preferred? I was thinking a button down shirt would be okay.
Click to expand...

Depending on your price range, I would recommend Everlane silk blouses ($55-78). They have a decent range of variety (color and cuts!) and the quality is good. I only purchased one shirt for interviews and it has held up nicely despite the wear and tear. Also, the cut of the shirt is such that I haven't had any issues with gaping buttons and that is even with a larger bust/smaller waist.

Let me know if you are interested and I can send you a referral link :)
 
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I started suit shopping and I'm having the trouble of looking like a boy. I have a very short pixie cut and putting me into a suit just makes me look like a child playing dress up. I'm planning on buying a well fitting suit and investing in tailoring, but as far as pieces underneath the suit a silk blouse (maybe a button front with a feminine print) and a medium sized necklace be acceptable to avoid furthering the boyishness with a button front shirt? Also I'm planning on wearing flats to avoid the risk of falling over.

I'm very concerned about looking drab with my hair being so short.

Here are some ideas for tops, very unsure as my uniform for the last 5 years has been scrubs and sweat pants.

http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-tie-...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-spli...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

http://www.express.com/clothing/wom...ck-rolled-sleeve-blouse/pro/8621775/cat430028
 
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K.Garcia said:
I started suit shopping and I'm having the trouble of looking like a boy. I have a very short pixie cut and putting me into a suit just makes me look like a child playing dress up. I'm planning on buying a well fitting suit and investing in tailoring, but as far as pieces underneath the suit a silk blouse (maybe a button front with a feminine print) and a medium sized necklace be acceptable to avoid furthering the boyishness with a button front shirt? Also I'm planning on wearing flats to avoid the risk of falling over.

I'm very concerned about looking drab with my hair being so short.

Here are some ideas for tops, very unsure as my uniform for the last 5 years has been scrubs and sweat pants.

http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-tie-...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-spli...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

http://www.express.com/clothing/wom...ck-rolled-sleeve-blouse/pro/8621775/cat430028
Click to expand...
No prints! How about a jewel tone and feminine fabric?
 
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K.Garcia said:
I started suit shopping and I'm having the trouble of looking like a boy. I have a very short pixie cut and putting me into a suit just makes me look like a child playing dress up. I'm planning on buying a well fitting suit and investing in tailoring, but as far as pieces underneath the suit a silk blouse (maybe a button front with a feminine print) and a medium sized necklace be acceptable to avoid furthering the boyishness with a button front shirt? Also I'm planning on wearing flats to avoid the risk of falling over.

I'm very concerned about looking drab with my hair being so short.

Here are some ideas for tops, very unsure as my uniform for the last 5 years has been scrubs and sweat pants.

http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-tie-...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-spli...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

http://www.express.com/clothing/wom...ck-rolled-sleeve-blouse/pro/8621775/cat430028
Click to expand...
As gyngyn notes, bright jewel tones or colors more typically associated with women are a great way to feminize a more masculine look.

In addition having the suit tailored so that it nips in at the waist to accentuate your waist is also a great way to feminize your look.

Small earrings and a touch of make up can also help as would a small heel but you seem hesitant on that last point LOL.

Lastly I think prints are difficult and I would not recommend is such a bold large one as you linked above.
 
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Agreeing about the earrings and nipping in the suit at the waist. I'd also suggest you practice in lowish, wide-ish heels to see if they're possible. As low and wide as you can stomach without 'going granny' --

The bright blue with the bow is very feminizing --
 
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snowflakes said:
What do you think of a ponytail like this, without wrapping hai, and with the bangs pinned up? That's how I wore mine for med school interviews, and for most interview type things, but now I wonder if that's not appropriate!

https://eidealonline.files.wordpress.com/2011/11/kristin_cavalleri_ponytail.jpg

I'm pretty non-cheerleader looking/acting, so I guess I never even considered that.
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The lower the tail, the more sophisticated it reads.
There are variations that can work for a particular individual.
 
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What's everyone's opinion on not wearing makeup to the interview? I never wear makeup and whenever I do, I feel really sticky, uncomfortable, and not very confident. Plus, most of the schools I've applied to will still be sweltering even through October, so I'm trying to avoid having my face melt off.

If makeup is an absolute must, does anybody know of any brands that can hold up under heat/sweat? Also, what else should I be doing besides foundation and concealer? I feel that eyeshadow would be too much, but would subtle eyeliner and mascara be appropriate?
 
beeboops said:
What's everyone's opinion on not wearing makeup to the interview? I never wear makeup and whenever I do, I feel really sticky, uncomfortable, and not very confident. Plus, most of the schools I've applied to will still be sweltering even through October, so I'm trying to avoid having my face melt off.

If makeup is an absolute must, does anybody know of any brands that can hold up under heat/sweat? Also, what else should I be doing besides foundation and concealer? I feel that eyeshadow would be too much, but would subtle eyeliner and mascara be appropriate?
Click to expand...


I would do a light eyeshadow, mascara, and lipgloss and you should be set. Primer and a finishing spray will keep it from melting off (pro tip from a girl who lives in the sweltering part of the country)
 
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I have a question. It pertains to weight loss. I am an 18-month post op gastric sleeve patient. While my weight loss has slowed drastically, I am still losing weight. When should I buy my suit to ensure that I can get it tailored for my interviews? Basically, how far in advance do I need to buy one?
 
ReadyforMed said:
I have a question. It pertains to weight loss. I am an 18-month post op gastric sleeve patient. While my weight loss has slowed drastically, I am still losing weight. When should I buy my suit to ensure that I can get it tailored for my interviews? Basically, how far in advance do I need to buy one?
Click to expand...

Count on a week for tailoring, so shop ~2 weeks out if you're easy to find/fit, more if you're picky and/or you don't have great stores nearby.

beeboops said:
What's everyone's opinion on not wearing makeup to the interview? I never wear makeup and whenever I do, I feel really sticky, uncomfortable, and not very confident. Plus, most of the schools I've applied to will still be sweltering even through October, so I'm trying to avoid having my face melt off.

If makeup is an absolute must, does anybody know of any brands that can hold up under heat/sweat? Also, what else should I be doing besides foundation and concealer? I feel that eyeshadow would be too much, but would subtle eyeliner and mascara be appropriate?
Click to expand...

In a hot climate and for someone who's not comfortable with make-up, I'd skip the foundation altogether. That's the part that melts most and is most difficult to do well. If you need a little color-evening, a mineral powder might be just the ticket.

A bit of waterproof mascara, a subtle eye-liner and a near-neutral lip gloss should be all you need.
 
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While we're on the topic of makeup, could someone advise me on what is appropriate to wear? I tend to look very young (in the last year, I have been asked about how starting high school is going for me), so I wear makeup every day in order to look a little closer to my age. I generally wear a slightly bright but basically neutral tone of eye shadow, some eyeliner, and mascara? Is this okay, or is this too much?
 
nwts said:
While we're on the topic of makeup, could someone advise me on what is appropriate to wear? I tend to look very young (in the last year, I have been asked about how starting high school is going for me), so I wear makeup every day in order to look a little closer to my age. I generally wear a slightly bright but basically neutral tone of eye shadow, some eyeliner, and mascara? Is this okay, or is this too much?
Click to expand...

For makeup I think that anything can work so long as you are working with a NEUTRAL palette. Find things that don't stray more than a shade away lighter or darker from your skin tone. Then separate day v. nighttime. You're not gonna try to do a winged eyeliner, wear bright red lipstick or electric blue eyeshadow for interview day.

Foundation - mineral or liquid. If you go for liquid and are worried about it melting off, use less than you normally would and make sure to finish it off with some finishing powder (good to make sure all your makeup stays in place).

Concealer - I would recommend this, especially if you felt like you didn't get a good night sleep the night before! Use it as a highlighter to enhance certain features, mainly the forehead, cheeks and chin.

Blush/bronzer - this I feel is more dependent on skin tone. If you have fair skin, a very subtle pink blush really brightens the face. I, however, have olive skin and use bronzer to contour my cheekbones and along the top of my forehead. Using this along with concealer highlights all the features of your face that natural sunlight hits, giving the best profile.

Mascara - a very simple way to feminize your look, especially if you curl your lashes (which is not as scary as it looks for those that have never done it!) Would not recommend putting false lashes on unless you literally do not have any.

Eyeshadow/eyeliner - for eyeshadow, keep it neutral. Depending on your skin tone, go for shades between pink and brown. No grays or colors like blue, green, or purple - save that for a night on the town (when you're exploring the city the night before your interview! )

Lipstick/lip gloss - no purple, orange or red. Pinks, mauve, nudes, etc. Dependent on skin tone again. Having olive skin, lip gloss NEVER looks good on me, but a pretty pink gloss on fair skin is very nice! I will personally probably use a light amount of rust lipstick...it may seem very dark but it looks very natural with my skin tone.

Additional feminine touches: simple stud earrings, a nice colored top, and I even like the simple French manicure nails as added femininity (don't paint them!) An actual heel also lengthens the leg, giving a more feminine look and helps those that are on the shorter side (like me :/). I don't wear heels that often, so I'll be wearing them every so often to get used to them and break them in.

Oh, and I hate to bring up the phrase "on fleek" but having defined brows makes a HUGE difference in how your face is structured! So if you're not comfortable doing your own eyebrows, it is definitely worth the $10 to get them waxed 4-5 days before your interview (if you have high pain tolerance I would recommend threading because the results last longer.)

I know a lot of people are minimalists when it comes to things like makeup, or never have worn any, so my recommendation would be to skip the foundation/concealer if you have clear skin and go with a light blush/bronzer, mascara, and a little gloss or lipstick!

If anyone would like any recommendations, I know some cheap drugstore items that I personally use and work for me, each under $10! (Sorry, but I'm not that into makeup that I'm gonna spend $40 on mascara from MAC or Sephora.)
 
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What would be the ideal ear ring size (I have a very short pixie cut so they'll be in full view)?

Also shoe color with a black suit?
 
Are shoes with a black croco finish alright?
 
X3NA said:
Are shoes with a black croco finish alright?
Click to expand...
Like these? ;)

. Crocodile-high-heeled-shoes.jpg

They can be a little "dandy" but its not a big deal.
 
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womanofscience said:
Depending on your price range, I would recommend Everlane silk blouses ($55-78). They have a decent range of variety (color and cuts!) and the quality is good. I only purchased one shirt for interviews and it has held up nicely despite the wear and tear. Also, the cut of the shirt is such that I haven't had any issues with gaping buttons and that is even with a larger bust/smaller waist.

Let me know if you are interested and I can send you a referral link :)
Click to expand...

Ah, sorry for the delayed response! But yes, please send me the referral link!

I have to ask though -- is silk an appropriate fabric for interviews?
 
northernlights15 said:
Ah, sorry for the delayed response! But yes, please send me the referral link!

I have to ask though -- is silk an appropriate fabric for interviews?
Click to expand...

I wore silk button-ups to my interviews and have always thought they were interview professional. Most of the silks I've seen are fairly matte, so I feel they look much classier than satin.

I've heard great things about the Everlane shirts and they seem to be an excellent deal! I wore the Madewell silk boyshirts (which are kinda pricey and now discontinued, booo) and bought a few cheaper ones from Express to extend the life of my favourite ones. Seconding @womanofscience I found that the cut and drape of silk button-ups helped me avoid the infamous "shirt-gap," which I seem to get with cotton/cotton-blend oxford shirts.

The catch is that silk ought to be either dry cleaned or hand washed... I made the mistake of machine washing an Express shirt and it became terribly stiff and rough, so much so that I just had to donate it at the end of my interview cycle. Not sure if this is due to the quality of the fabric or silk itself, as I've always treated my expensive shirts more kindly.
 
Are mary jane heels (similar to this) acceptable? Due to the shape of my feet (wide toes, narrow heel), my ankles slip out of pumps very easily unless there is a strap keeping my foot in place; heel inserts don't help much. Would they look strange with a skirt? If so, maybe I should wear pants to cover up the straps.
 
recrystallised said:
Are mary jane heels (similar to this) acceptable? Due to the shape of my feet (wide toes, narrow heel), my ankles slip out of pumps very easily unless there is a strap keeping my foot in place; heel inserts don't help much. Would they look strange with a skirt? If so, maybe I should wear pants to cover up the straps.
Click to expand...
They look fine.
 
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northernlights15 said:
Ah, sorry for the delayed response! But yes, please send me the referral link!

I have to ask though -- is silk an appropriate fabric for interviews?
Click to expand...

Silk is definitely appropriate! The shirt I have (and I am actually wearing it today) is considered a "crepe de shine" and it looks very tasteful. PM'ed you the link!

And I should highlight that these are indeed dry clean or hand wash only!
 
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recrystallised said:
Are mary jane heels (similar to this) acceptable? Due to the shape of my feet (wide toes, narrow heel), my ankles slip out of pumps very easily unless there is a strap keeping my foot in place; heel inserts don't help much. Would they look strange with a skirt? If so, maybe I should wear pants to cover up the straps.
Click to expand...
They're fine (with a skirt or pant).
 
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Finally found my perfect suit! Yay!
 
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Are the Everlane shirts good for petite women? I'm a 00P at Ann Taylor for example.
 
Leslie_Knope said:
Are the Everlane shirts good for petite women? I'm a 00P at Ann Taylor for example.
Click to expand...
I'm a 00 at Ann Taylor and I have an Everlane shirt in size small that fits perfectly. I'm 5'8", though, so I'd probably go a for an XS if I were you – the arms are pretty long!
 
Yup yup! 4th of July sales are too good to waste!
 
This is one of the most interesting threads on SDN. Nothing here applies to me but I am totally engrossed in the conversation.
 
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phuynh94 said:
Yup yup! 4th of July sales are too good to waste!
Click to expand...
How did I not think of that -_- if it isn't obvious, I also am one of the clueless ones here when it comes to fashion. Or shopping
 
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I got a great deal on Amazon from a brand I had tried on at Macy's. Their prices fluctuate really fast and when I saw that it was super cheap, I just had to get it! Gotta love free 2-day shipping, I received it yesterday and tried it on and it was great. I'm planning on losing weight this summer but even if I do it'll still fit nicely so I'm happy with it.
 
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