Uh oh... Pencil skirts are out if you have a quite-round bottom? I have a very... distinctive... pear shape, with my waist-to-hip varying by around ~10 inches. It makes it nearly impossible to buy a set (I differ 3-4 sizes on top and bottom) so I have to buy separates.
You guys would say skirts are out? Just go for pants? Note: I am also extremely short (5'0). I've worn skirts before to political events... never thought it would maybe be more unprofessional for my body shape...
I interviewed for med school apps in 2008, and I'm prepping for residency interviews now, so this is on my mind.
Pencil skirts are perfectly appropriate if they are actually professional. For example, you do not want to buy a 50% lycra/spandex blended pencil skirt or something similarly stretchy. The idea is to go for tailored, not for form fitting. I also have a fairly distinct waist to hip ratio, so I've looked into the options a bit.
I'd recommend doing the dressy-store-in-the-mall rounds to try things on in person. Think J. Crew, Limited, NY&C, Banana Republic, etc. Expect to spend between $150-300 for two pieces depending on sales. Try to budget for possible tailoring.
Look for separates in whatever suit cut you feel the most comfortable in. Skirts should hit at the knee (or below if you need them long for religious or cultural reasons). Pants should be properly tailored to your height and not cropped/capri. Suit dresses are also a great option (my preference), and should follow the same length rules as skirts.
Suit jackets should be standard, not cropped. Select the number of suit jacket buttons based on fit and chest size; bear in mind that a one button jacket on a larger bust will look less tailored than a three button jacket. Remember that you want to look polished/tailored.
Go for suits that are solid colors or have subtle patterns. Darker colors (gray, black, brown, navy) are best.
Blouses should not be revealing AT ALL. Button downs, ruffles, bows are all fine. Consider tights since many interviews occur during colder months, and often schools/hospitals are very chilly.
Shoes should be comfortable enough for you to walk quickly in. Heels are fine. Flats are fine. Again, go for polished, and wear something that is normal for you. Colors should be conservative, and knee high boots/booties/anything trendy is not a great idea.
