Women's Interview Clothing #3!

[gyngyn]

Look closely, they both have peak lapels! I do like the 2nd one better just not sure if the online ordering/increased price is worth it.

The second one looks like a notch.

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Members don't see this ad.

 

[colbora]

The second one looks like a notch.

Ohh yes I see what you are saying.

 

[danib2k15]

What should I do with bangs? Will it be looked down upon if I leave them free? I have side bangs just past my nose

 

[Amelie.]

I need a second opinion... I bought this silk shirt from Express to wear under my jacket and I am not sure about the neckline. Do any of you think it is not conservative (i.e. too low cut) enough?

 

[a_borgia]

I need a second opinion... I bought this silk shirt from Express to wear under my jacket and I am not sure about the neckline. Do any of you think it is not conservative (i.e. too low cut) enough?

View attachment 196356

It looks fine to me, to be honest. You're of thin build, so it's not anywhere near inappropriately low. If you're feeling conscious, add a necklace.

A little too tuxedo, though not a deal-breaker (especially for women).

Huh, I always thought shawl collars were for tuxedos. Peaked collars are a little stodgy if anything, but certainly not partywear.

 

[DokterMom]

Neckline's fine -- The overall combination is very dark and somber though, so I'd vote for something to brighten it up a bit. A nice gold necklace could do that --

 

[neoneurohocuspocus]

Looking for advice!

I bought this suit jacket with matching pants (http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp...wa-suiting/two-button-blazer-0110-s2jl2689--1) and am looking for a pink/red blouse. I'm thinking either this peach, long-sleeved shirt (http://www.anntaylor.com/georgette-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086) or this sleeveless in the ruby (http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-zip-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086).

Is long vs short-sleeved a big deal? Should I avoid wearing red under a charcoal suit?

 

[starlite911]

Looking for advice!

I bought this suit jacket with matching pants (http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp...wa-suiting/two-button-blazer-0110-s2jl2689--1) and am looking for a pink/red blouse. I'm thinking either this peach, long-sleeved shirt (http://www.anntaylor.com/georgette-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086) or this sleeveless in the ruby (http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-zip-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086).

Is long vs short-sleeved a big deal? Should I avoid wearing red under a charcoal suit?

I love that tank! I have it in the blue. One caveat, I had a hard time finding a bra that didn't show the seams through it since the material is so thin. I think that would be the case with both of those shirts though. Also, if you didn't notice, the long sleeve one "drapes" in the front and isn't actually stitched (like, you could touch your stomach through the two pieces if you were so inclined), so you'd have to pin it more than likely!

 

[Amelie.]

@neoneurohocuspocus
I tried on the Georgette yesterday and I personally thought it would be too hot under the suit plus the shape was a little odd. The tank looks nice. I'm not sure about the red/charcoal combination. I wanted to wear red under my suit but red/black combinations look too goth to me so I decided not to.
I bought this in light blue from Ann Taylor as an option to wear under my jacket, it is cute and I thought it fit better then the wrap top. They have a peach tone, so this shirt might be a good option.
http://www.anntaylor.com/dressy-tee...Explode=false&catid=cata000010&priceSort=DESC

 

[colbora]

Looking for advice!

I bought this suit jacket with matching pants (http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp...wa-suiting/two-button-blazer-0110-s2jl2689--1) and am looking for a pink/red blouse. I'm thinking either this peach, long-sleeved shirt (http://www.anntaylor.com/georgette-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086) or this sleeveless in the ruby (http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-zip-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086).

Is long vs short-sleeved a big deal? Should I avoid wearing red under a charcoal suit?

I have that jacket too i like the lighter colours with the charcoal so i prefer the peach!

 

[chocoholicsoxfan]

Looking for advice!

I bought this suit jacket with matching pants (http://www.lordandtaylor.com/webapp...wa-suiting/two-button-blazer-0110-s2jl2689--1) and am looking for a pink/red blouse. I'm thinking either this peach, long-sleeved shirt (http://www.anntaylor.com/georgette-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086) or this sleeveless in the ruby (http://www.anntaylor.com/crepe-zip-...tes&utm_source=Skimlinks&utm_campaign=7313086).

Is long vs short-sleeved a big deal? Should I avoid wearing red under a charcoal suit?

I would try on peach and red under your suit to see what looks better with your skin tone. If you are really pale or really dark, the peach would be better imo, but if you are olive skinned or lightly tan, the red might suit you better!

 

[neoneurohocuspocus]

Thanks all! I might buy both and try to return one - hopefully they have a good return policy!

 

[Winged Scapula]

Neckline's fine -- The overall combination is very dark and somber though, so I'd vote for something to brighten it up a bit. A nice gold necklace could do that --

That was my impression is well: it looks unfinished and drab. A chunky gold necklace or pin would brighten it up considerably.

 

[Amelie.]

Darn everyone seems to agree the green is too dark with the suit. I am wearing black sheer tights and black heels too, so I can switch the shirt out.

@Winged Scapula I have a light blue scoop neck I can wear under instead, which will brighten it up a little. Do you think it would still look unfinished without a necklace/pin?

 

[gyngyn]

Darn everyone seems to agree the green is too dark with the suit. I am wearing black sheer tights and black heels too, so I can switch the shirt out.

Nude!

 

[DokterMom]

The light blue would brighten it considerably --

But switch to nude hose.

 

[Winged Scapula]

Darn everyone seems to agree the green is too dark with the suit. I am wearing black sheer tights and black heels too, so I can switch the shirt out.

@Winged Scapula I have a light blue scoop neck I can wear under instead, which will brighten it up a little. Do you think it would still look unfinished without a necklace/pin?

Ah...yeah, no black hose please.

A light blue blouse would look much lighter, cherry and less dour than the dark green.

When wearing solids, it is nice to have a piece of jewelry or scarf to break up the monotony. Its not mandatory but you might find that a simple silver or crystal necklace would look nice with the light blue.

 

[danib2k15]

Do my bangs need to be pinned back? I have side bangs that frame my face but in no way conceal it

 

[DokterMom]

Your hair should not be in your eyes or in your way. If your bangs don't do this, then they're fine.

 

[Winged Scapula]

Do my bangs need to be pinned back? I have side bangs that frame my face but in no way conceal it

Not necessarily if they definitely don't fall into your face.

 

[entresuspiros]

I have a question regarding interview attire. Would forest green be too bold a color for a blazer? It fits perfectly and looks tasteful. I wanted to pair it with a conservative but fitted dark gray sheath dress, since I find skirts more comfortable and easier to move around in.

I have read about and spoken with other female interviewees attending interviews in business dresses and having no problems, but they mostly wore black. I have jet black, thick curly hair so I want some color to look less severe (I will tie back the crown and leave the rest to fall behind my shoulders).

I can post a picture of the jacket if necessary, I just wanted some general information on which colors to use/avoid. Thank you!

 

[applepie41]

Another question here: I have a black skirt suit with black heels. I'm planning on wearing a light pink, button down collared shirt inside. Now I've read that the purse should match the shoes, but if I have a black purse, isn't it too much black? I have a mustard yellow purse like the color here: http://momspark.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/mustard-yellow-spring-2013-1-600x450.jpg

Would that be bad to have a different colored purse? I thought it might give my entire outfit a pop of color, instead of having all black.

 

[chocoholicsoxfan]

To be honest, (and I'm directly going to contradict our esteemed advisors here), in every single interview I've had thus far, we've had to put our bags away for every part except lunch and possibly the tour. No one interviewing/evaluating me has actually seen my bag. So, my guess is that if you're trying to save money, foregoing an SDN standard issue bag and using one you already have would not be the biggest deal in the world, unless it's leopard print, lurid pink, fuzzy, a present you got in 6th grade, in tatters, mesh, etc.

 

[starlite911]

To be honest, (and I'm directly going to contradict our esteemed advisors here), in every single interview I've had thus far, we've had to put our bags away for every part except lunch and possibly the tour. No one interviewing/evaluating me has actually seen my bag. So, my guess is that if you're trying to save money, foregoing an SDN standard issue bag and using one you already have would not be the biggest deal in the world, unless it's leopard print, lurid pink, fuzzy, a present you got in 6th grade, in tatters, mesh, etc.

That's so interesting. I have kept my bag with me for every part of the interview at every school I've interviewed at EXCEPT the tour. Guess it goes to show you that places do things differently.

 

[DokterMom]

I have a question regarding interview attire. Would forest green be too bold a color for a blazer? It fits perfectly and looks tasteful. I wanted to pair it with a conservative but fitted dark gray sheath dress, since I find skirts more comfortable and easier to move around in.

Forest green would be different but acceptable. Please do something though to 'tie' the jacket to the dress -- a scarf perhaps?

Another question here: I have a black skirt suit with black heels. I'm planning on wearing a light pink, button down collared shirt inside. Now I've read that the purse should match the shoes, but if I have a black purse, isn't it too much black? I have a mustard yellow purse like the color here: http://momspark.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/mustard-yellow-spring-2013-1-600x450.jpg

Would that be bad to have a different colored purse? I thought it might give my entire outfit a pop of color, instead of having all black.

It would definitely provide a 'pop' of color, but you would definitely become "that girl with the yellow bag." If your qualifications are well above average for the school you're interviewing with, that could be a good thing. Otherwise, I'd suggest you stick with the safer black option.

To be honest, (and I'm directly going to contradict our esteemed advisors here), in every single interview I've had thus far, we've had to put our bags away for every part except lunch and possibly the tour. No one interviewing/evaluating me has actually seen my bag. So, my guess is that if you're trying to save money, foregoing an SDN standard issue bag and using one you already have would not be the biggest deal in the world, unless it's leopard print, lurid pink, fuzzy, a present you got in 6th grade, in tatters, mesh, etc.

You've heard about that guy Murphy? Wrote some kind of law...?

 

[chocoholicsoxfan]

You've heard about that guy Murphy? Wrote some kind of law...?

Fair enough. In my defense, I'm not a "handbag girl." You know, some people are obsessed with handbags, some with shoes? My obsession is jackets.

Though I've also seen a lot of contradictory statements regarding totes vs structured bags from adcoms and current students.

 

[DokterMom]

Fair enough. In my defense, I'm not a "handbag girl." You know, some people are obsessed with handbags, some with shoes? My obsession is jackets.

Though I've also seen a lot of contradictory statements regarding totes vs structured bags from adcoms and current students.

If you're not a 'bag gal', don't spend a lot on one. Anything simple and plain will do --

 

[chocoholicsoxfan]

If you're not a 'bag gal', don't spend a lot on one. Anything simple and plain will do --

I have this one!

http://lp.hm.com/hmprod?set=source[...ue[446x522]&call=url[file:/mobile/v1/product]

My suit is an indescribable color- charcoal, but with sort of a bluish hue, so it's like a navy charcoal. But it goes!

 

[DokterMom]

I have this one!

http://lp.hm.com/hmprod?set=source[/model/2015/B00 0316000 003 80 0033.jpg],rotate[],width[],height[],x[],y[],type[STILL_LIFE_FRONT]&hmver=3&set=key[size],value[446x522]&call=url[file:/mobile/v1/product]

My suit is an indescribable color- charcoal, but with sort of a bluish hue, so it's like a navy charcoal. But it goes!

Excellent choice --

 

[entresuspiros]

Forest green would be different but acceptable. Please do something though to 'tie' the jacket to the dress -- a scarf perhaps?

Thanks for the input. Wouldn't a scarf - even a solid color one - look less professional? I have three scarves but they are all multi-colored. They're pretty, but not something I ever thought of wearing for the interviews.

Can you provide a link that shows how I can "tie"the two items? I also thought of adding a very thin belt to the dress as an "accesory", as I will only wear earrings.

 

[Glazedonutlove]

I've been lucky enough to be on several interviews so far and I have yet to see someone wearing pantyhose with a pantsuit.. I will stop as well lol

 

[idontknowwhatnametopick]

Thanks for the input. Wouldn't a scarf - even a solid color one - look less professional? I have three scarves but they are all multi-colored. They're pretty, but not something I ever thought of wearing for the interviews.

Can you provide a link that shows how I can "tie"the two items? I also thought of adding a very thin belt to the dress as an "accesory", as I will only wear earrings.

By "scarves" I think we're talking about silk square type of scarves, not what someone trying to keep their neck warm would think of as a scarf, so maybe that's where the confusion is coming from?

 

[DokterMom]

There are a few photos of professional looking silk scarves on this thread. Rather than dig up a new batch...

 

[entresuspiros]

By "scarves" I think we're talking about silk square type of scarves, not what someone trying to keep their neck warm would think of as a scarf, so maybe that's where the confusion is coming from?

There are a few photos of professional looking silk scarves on this thread. Rather than dig up a new batch...

I assumed it was that type of scarf, I'll check earlier posts. Thank you!

 

[entresuspiros]

So now I'm questioning my taste and think the blazer is too casual. Thoughts?

 

[chocoholicsoxfan]

So now I'm questioning my taste and think the blazer is too casual. Thoughts?

View attachment 196434

Umm

So here's the thing. Last week at my Duke Interview, I was the only one not wearing a black suit; I was in navy, and I felt like I stood out! I would imagine wearing forest green would make me feel like a sore thumb and subsequently affect my interview performance (confidence is key!) in addition to any biases my interviewers would have against il unique suit colors, so that'd be two things working against me right there. Of course, the choice is yours...

But, supposing you don't get an acceptance, do you really want to spend the rest of your life wondering if your suit color was the reason why you threw away thousands of dollars on an application cycle? If you're okay with that, then I guess that's your prerogative.

 

[appletree321]

I've been lucky enough to be on several interviews so far and I have yet to see someone wearing pantyhose with a pantsuit.. I will stop as well lol

So no pantyhose for pant suit = perfectly fine? Those things are not comfortable at all...

 

[mehc012]

So no pantyhose for pant suit = perfectly fine? Those things are not comfortable at all...

I just wore dress/trouser socks...they look like the knee-toe portion of pantyhose only they're a bit more durable. Fairly cheap and easy to find...wander through a Target and you'll see some.

 

[appletree321]

I have this one!

http://lp.hm.com/hmprod?set=source[/model/2015/B00 0316000 003 80 0033.jpg],rotate[],width[],height[],x[],y[],type[STILL_LIFE_FRONT]&hmver=3&set=key[size],value[446x522]&call=url[file:/mobile/v1/product]

My suit is an indescribable color- charcoal, but with sort of a bluish hue, so it's like a navy charcoal. But it goes!

I have that in black lol

 

[idontknowwhatnametopick]

For those of you wearing skirts/dresses and feeling unsure about pantyhose... wear pantyhose... Just do it. It looks great. If you miss a spot when shaving your legs, nobody will see it. If you have scars on your legs, nobody will see them. If your blouse moves around, tuck it into your pantyhose and it won't move anymore. I love pantyhose.

One tip though: make sure the top of the pantyhose doesn't show above your skirt if you are tucking your blouse into it.

 

[DokterMom]

So now I'm questioning my taste and think the blazer is too casual. Thoughts?

Can you post it slightly open with the dress underneath? For what it's worth, I'm not thinking 'too casual' but am wondering if the dress and jacket will go well together without something to bring them together -- like a scarf or distinctive piece of jewelry. But@chocoholicsoxfan has a point about confidence. If you lack that critical confidence in how you look, dressing somewhat differently from the norm can exacerbate that feeling.

 

[ciestar]

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/laundry-by-shelli-segal-one-button-inverted-dart-jacket?ID=1989808&CategoryID=67592&LinkType=#fn=BRAND=Laundry;;Laundry by Shelli Segal&sp=1&spc=56&ruleId=&slotId=11

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/laundry-by-shelli-segal-faux-wrap-pencil-skirt?ID=2370142&CategoryID=67592&LinkType=#fn=BRAND=Laundry;;Laundry by Shelli Segal&sp=1&spc=56&ruleId=&slotId=1

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/calvin-klein-sleeveless-suiting-top?ID=479672&CategoryID=13156&LinkType=#fn=DEPARTMENT_TYPE=Tops&sp=1&spc=117&slotId=40

This is the suit I bought today....too funeral-y? I thankfully have time to change pieces, if needed. I didn't want to go with the black, initially, but sizing for me is always a pain and I'm lucky i found separates that matched in my size at all...

Plan on wearing my hair back in a ponytail. I have a tendency to play with it, so I figure this is for the best.

Anyway, where I'm lost is shoes. I NEVER wear heels, ever. What kind of flats are acceptable? WHERE'S MY SHOE SAVVY PEOPLE!?

Are these okay?

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/jellypop+el...ategory=cat20068&activeCats=cat10006,cat20068

or these?

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/jellypop+el...ategory=cat20068&activeCats=cat10006,cat20068

 

[ciestar]

Oh also, bags? I generally carry only a wristlet, but is that too clunky?

Also, what's the consensus on jewelry? Will a simple necklace be okay?

 

[Winged Scapula]

I have a question regarding interview attire. Would forest green be too bold a color for a blazer? It fits perfectly and looks tasteful. I wanted to pair it with a conservative but fitted dark gray sheath dress, since I find skirts more comfortable and easier to move around in.

I have read about and spoken with other female interviewees attending interviews in business dresses and having no problems, but they mostly wore black.

A nice sheath "business" dress can be wonderful and a while back I advised a fashion savvy candidate that a deep dark true forest green could be lovely. However, I'm having trouble envisioning the color of jacket you posted looking coordinated with a grey dress, so my objections are more about it looking like an after-thought rather than the color.

Another question here: I have a black skirt suit with black heels. I'm planning on wearing a light pink, button down collared shirt inside. Now I've read that the purse should match the shoes, but if I have a black purse, isn't it too much black? I have a mustard yellow purse like the color here: http://momspark.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/mustard-yellow-spring-2013-1-600x450.jpg

Would that be bad to have a different colored purse? I thought it might give my entire outfit a pop of color, instead of having all black.

No, its not too much black. Remember many, if not most of your interviewers, will have be raised in an era where being "matchy matchy" was desirable and expected. I could get behind a merlot colored purse (coordinating with the pink blouse), but the one you've posted, or any yellow color just sounds jarring and again, an afterthought rather than a planned accessory.

To be honest, (and I'm directly going to contradict our esteemed advisors here), in every single interview I've had thus far, we've had to put our bags away for every part except lunch and possibly the tour. No one interviewing/evaluating me has actually seen my bag. So, my guess is that if you're trying to save money, foregoing an SDN standard issue bag and using one you already have would not be the biggest deal in the world, unless it's leopard print, lurid pink, fuzzy, a present you got in 6th grade, in tatters, mesh, etc.

YMMV. Our candidates keep their bags with them (if they wish). But yes, if you're trying to save money please do it with the bag (novel idea: do without a bag!) and not the suit.

I just wore dress/trouser socks...they look like the knee-toe portion of pantyhose only they're a bit more durable. Fairly cheap and easy to find...wander through a Target and you'll see some.

Exactly. I don't recall anyone recommending full length pantyhose with a trouser suit.

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/laundry-by-shelli-segal-one-button-inverted-dart-jacket?ID=1989808&CategoryID=67592&LinkType=#fn=BRAND=Laundry;;Laundry by Shelli Segal&sp=1&spc=56&ruleId=&slotId=11

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/laundry-by-shelli-segal-faux-wrap-pencil-skirt?ID=2370142&CategoryID=67592&LinkType=#fn=BRAND=Laundry;;Laundry by Shelli Segal&sp=1&spc=56&ruleId=&slotId=1

http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/calvin-klein-sleeveless-suiting-top?ID=479672&CategoryID=13156&LinkType=#fn=DEPARTMENT_TYPE=Tops&sp=1&spc=117&slotId=40

This is the suit I bought today....too funeral-y? I thankfully have time to change pieces, if needed. I didn't want to go with the black, initially, but sizing for me is always a pain and I'm lucky i found separates that matched in my size at all...

I'm not seeing "funeraly" but is the skirt that short on you?

Plan on wearing my hair back in a ponytail. I have a tendency to play with it, so I figure this is for the best.

Anyway, where I'm lost is shoes. I NEVER wear heels, ever. What kind of flats are acceptable? WHERE'S MY SHOE SAVVY PEOPLE!?

Are these okay?

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/jellypop+el...ategory=cat20068&activeCats=cat10006,cat20068

or these?

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/jellypop+el...ategory=cat20068&activeCats=cat10006,cat20068

So I fail to understand the attitude of "I don't wear X, so I"m not going to even if expected".

But if this is the hill you're dying on, neither of your examples are appropriate or desirable. The felt and patent are too casual. Choose plain, non-textured leather (or at least consider a little kitten heel).

Oh also, bags? I generally carry only a wristlet, but is that too clunky?

Also, what's the consensus on jewelry? Will a simple necklace be okay?

Wristlets are cute but impractical ad not very professional. A simple necklace and/or earrings are fine.

 

[ciestar]

I'm not seeing "funeraly" but is the skirt that short on you?

Not at all. I generally need a petite length, so I got a regular length so it falls below the knee.

So I fail to understand the attitude of "I don't wear X, so I"m not going to even if expected".

But if this is the hill you're dying on, neither of your examples are appropriate or desirable. The felt and patent are too casual. Choose plain, non-textured leather (or at least consider a little kitten heel).

So a low heel is expected then? I wasn't exactly sure. I'll keep looking.

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/ak+anne+kle...at20010&activeCats=cat10006,cat20006,cat20010

Something like this?

http://www.dsw.com/shoe/aerosoles+r...at20010&activeCats=cat10006,cat20006,cat20010

Or this? Or are any type of shoe embellishment a no-no?

Wristlets are cute but impractical ad not very professional. A simple necklace and/or earrings are fine.

So what kind of bag is acceptable? (I don't even own a purse, so I literally have no idea)

 

[Winged Scapula]

Not at all. I generally need a petite length, so I got a regular length so it falls below the knee.

Perfect.

So a low heel is expected then? I wasn't exactly sure. I'll keep looking.

Yes, heels are expected. I'd venture for most no more than 3 inches and probably even less. This is what you're looking for: http://www.dsw.com/shoe/nine+west+e...ategory=cat20006&activeCats=cat10006,cat20006

So what kind of bag is acceptable? (I don't even own a purse, so I literally have no idea)

This is what you're looking for (but please don't think you have to spend $200): structured, classic and "mid size".

 

[ciestar]

Perfect.





Yes, heels are expected. I'd venture for most no more than 3 inches and probably even less. This is what you're looking for: http://www.dsw.com/shoe/nine+west+e...ategory=cat20006&activeCats=cat10006,cat20006




This is what you're looking for (but please don't think you have to spend $200): structured, classic and "mid size".

Thanks for you help!!!
(Your link to the bag is missing btw )
And it is expected for a female to carry a bag?

 

[Winged Scapula]

Thanks for you help!!!
(Your link to the bag is missing btw )
And it is expected for a female to carry a bag?

You absolutely don't have to have a bag; its one of my pet peeves when I see candidates obsessing about carrying a bag and a portfolio. I"m not sure what you really need a bag for, but it created a firestorm of dissent earlier in this thread so I'll hush up.

Here is the link: http://www.dsw.com/handbag/lauren+r...dsw12cat1770008,dsw11cat120016,dsw11cat120022

 

[ciestar]

You absolutely don't have to have a bag; its one of my pet peeves when I see candidates obsessing about carrying a bag and a portfolio. I"m not sure what you really need a bag for, but it created a firestorm of dissent earlier in this thread so I'll hush up.

Here is the link: http://www.dsw.com/handbag/lauren+r...dsw12cat1770008,dsw11cat120016,dsw11cat120022

I'll just get a small wallet I can keep in my pocket that has my ID, then. Perfect!

Edit: Suit has no pockets. Onto plan B.

 

[a_borgia]

.