Interview attire

[Sulilina]

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So I got an interview with nova and I am so incredibly HAPPY. I got the phone call while i was at work (in the pharmacy) and I had to ask to leave for a few because I needed to catch my breath and I didn't want to make any mistakes. Anyhow, now that I've calmed down and let it sink in, now I'm frantic over WHAT TO WEAR! I can't find any of the old threads from last year's applicants. So any feed back will help. My interview is in 1½ weeks, and I have to go shopping! I go to school and work full time so the only time to do this is on Sunday. Any feedback will be helpful! Thanks!

 

[inquirer89]

Congrats with your interview! Search past posts, there are literally dozens of interview attire questions. But I think the answer is pretty obvious, treat an interview as professionaly as possible. Wear a business suit (or something conservative if you are a woman)

 

[fenixtnlfan]

You didn't look very hard. There are tons of these threads out there! Try searching "interview attire" if you want more. Here's a pretty comprehensive one.
http://forums.studentdoctor.net/showthread.php?t=488954&highlight=interview+attire

Pretty much wear a suit. Very few people don't.

 

[kdorward]

Everything saod about girls wearing either a skirt or pant suit. I bought a black sweater dress. It is plain and simple, now I am not sure if that is the way to go. I think it is nice looking but it isn't a suit.

 

[twester]

I can't give females advice on clothing.

Males, it's a little pricey - but go to Men's Wearhouse if there's one in your area. Tell them you need the suit for a pharmacy school interview and tell them you want to spend as little money as possible.

I spent probably two hours in there and had three people attending to me - picking out shirt/tie combinations, matching shoes to the suit I picked out and taking my measurements for tailoring. I walked out with a great suit that I still wear three years later (had to have it tailored again for weight loss, which was included in the original price).

I spent about $450 on the suit, shirt, tie and shoes -plus the fantastic service. It was money well spent. I'd go back to Men's Wearhouse again.

 

[medicalCPA]

I can't give females advice on clothing.

Males, it's a little pricey - but go to Men's Wearhouse if there's one in your area. Tell them you need the suit for a pharmacy school interview and tell them you want to spend as little money as possible.

I spent probably two hours in there and had three people attending to me - picking out shirt/tie combinations, matching shoes to the suit I picked out and taking my measurements for tailoring. I walked out with a great suit that I still wear three years later (had to have it tailored again for weight loss, which was included in the original price).

I spent about $450 on the suit, shirt, tie and shoes -plus the fantastic service. It was money well spent. I'd go back to Men's Wearhouse again.

Good Lord! $450! Cheapskate that I am, I can't wrap my mind around spending that much for clothes...yet.

 

[Hels2007]

Everything saod about girls wearing either a skirt or pant suit. I bought a black sweater dress. It is plain and simple, now I am not sure if that is the way to go. I think it is nice looking but it isn't a suit.

A sweater dress is not formal enough. Depending on how you wear it, it may be "business casual", but it is not "business formal", which is expected for a pharmacy school interview.

 

[inquirer89]

You don't necessarily have to spend a ton of money for a suit. GQ magazine spotlights <$500 deals and featured a suit from Target for $85 (although, can't say much about how long it'll last). It's all about the details...get some nice shoes, wear a tie bar, and have your tailor make some alterations.

 

[monsterbrain]

Suit, suit and ONLY suit! Black or navy. There should be no questions about this.

Why is this so difficult for people to understand?

 

[Sulilina]

Well I guess I should've been more specific. I knew I needed a suit (I purchased one yesterday for $215 from the Limited who is offering 15% off if you show your school ID so that worked out nicely). What I meant to really ask is about the finer details like jewelry, hair, shoes, makeup, etc. But the link that fenix provided gave me a lot of answers, so thank you! I need to learn how to research on this site a little better but I spent a long time looking for interview attire because I know there were threads out there somewhere. I think I was just looking in the pharmacy forums. I don't know. Anyways thank you!

 

[jspwinter]

K.i.s.s ftw!

 

[Sparda29]

A suit is all you need, don't really have to wear a tie if you're a guy.

Girls have it so much easier.

 

[UES Girl]

A suit is all you need, don't really have to wear a tie if you're a guy.

Girls have it so much easier.

Oh, yeah, so much easier,considering it takes me like an hour just to make my long hair look decent in the morning.

 

[inquirer89]

A suit is all you need, don't really have to wear a tie if you're a guy.

Girls have it so much easier.

I respectfully disagree with this answer. You may have seen some people go without in your interviews, but I think a tie is a must if you're a guy. IMHO Anything less and you won't look serious. Better safe than sorry.

 

[sakigt]

So I got called by NOVA during the middle of my bachelorette party this weekend. The guy seemed a little shocked when he said I would call him back. Hey! I was enjoying Gumbo with an Abita in New Olreans, cant be "on" 100% of the time.

I have decent, but not perfect stats. A lot of work experience for my age, and good LORs. 3.2 Science, 3.4 Overall and 83 PCAT. Ill be there Tuesday by 1230. No info other than that, I guess they expect me to google directions?

As far as attire goes, just do what I do. Call The Limited, ask which employee could help you with the fitment of their suits/skirt combos and when they are working. Then go in at that time with your budget and let them pick out what fits you. Dont do anythng outside your realm of comfort, but dont show up in sneaks either. Good luck!

 

[hokierx]

does the black/navy rule apply to girls too? the more flattering suits on women are in the gray, pseudo-neutral area. as far as extras, minimal jewelry, conservative hair (no sarah palin updos...although i do love them), shoes below 3 inches, and NOT A LOT OF MAKE UP. look serious, but yourself. and there are some conservative schools that might prefer women wear skirt suits (pants too manly?). use your own discretion

 

[Sparda29]

Oh, yeah, so much easier,considering it takes me like an hour just to make my long hair look decent in the morning.

Okay, excluding hair, by the way, which you guys spend way too much time on.

I meant that girls have a lot more choice on choosing professional wear. I mean, all a guy can go with are slacks or khakis and collared shirts. The only real choice we have comes to patterns and colors.

 

[Brandie28]

Should females wear pant suit or skirt suit or does it not matter?

 

[Ross434]

mens wearhouse.

 

[cdhoward]

What do you guys think about a black cashmere suit jacket? Would that be too much of a suit jacket for the interview?

 

[kdorward]

I was wondering when your application was submitted to Nova. Mine was submitted Oct 6. I am trying to figure out how long before I get my supplemental application and then how long to I know if I would receive an interview or not.

 

[BubblieJenJen]

What would be appropriate for women to bring? A portfolio, purse, or both?

I was thinking a portfolio, but where would I put my keys, makeup, and other necessities?

 

[jiiniix2]

I brought a portfolio even if I didn't use it, my human resources boss told me to since it'll look more professional and even lent me one =) (although I didn't really use it; it was great to hold on to when I got nervous). O yea, you can bring definitely bring a purse just make sure it looks somewhat professional. Just carry that around with you, nobody will mind.

 

[fenixtnlfan]

What would be appropriate for women to bring? A portfolio, purse, or both?

I was thinking a portfolio, but where would I put my keys, makeup, and other necessities?

A purse is fine. Just keep it simple and professional looking.

 

[monsterbrain]

Suit, suit and ONLY suit! Black or navy. There should be no questions about this.

Why is this so difficult for people to understand?

Sorry Sulilina - I'm just a "little" uptight these days. Like everyone else said: hair/makeup/purse all conservative. Don't wear much jewelry if at all. No perfume. Clear nail polish. Bottom line is that you want to avoid anything that draws attention to your physical appearance; you want to be remembered for your talents not that gaudy magenta skirt you wore. However, I do know someone who was accepted even though she wore a hot pink dress with matching f**k-me-pumps on her interview. Of course, she looks like Barbie so maybe that had something to do with it??

Good luck to you!

 

[alenadoma]

Sorry Sulilina - I'm just a "little" uptight these days. Like everyone else said: hair/makeup/purse all conservative. Don't wear much jewelry if at all. No perfume. Clear nail polish. Bottom line is that you want to avoid anything that draws attention to your physical appearance; you want to be remembered for your talents not that gaudy magenta skirt you wore. However, I do know someone who was accepted even though she wore a hot pink dress with matching f**k-me-pumps on her interview. Of course, she looks like Barbie so maybe that had something to do with it??

Good luck to you!

No perfume? clear nail polish? no jewelery? We're not going into a monastery!

 

[cdhoward]

No perfume? clear nail polish? no jewelery? We're not going into a monastery!

Go ahead and wear perfume if you want to. But don't say you weren't warned when your interviewer ends up being allergic to it. You will not fair well.

 

[Hels2007]

does the black/navy rule apply to girls too? the more flattering suits on women are in the gray, pseudo-neutral area. as far as extras, minimal jewelry, conservative hair (no sarah palin updos...although i do love them), shoes below 3 inches, and NOT A LOT OF MAKE UP. look serious, but yourself. and there are some conservative schools that might prefer women wear skirt suits (pants too manly?). use your own discretion

Some people would say yes, but I am personally not a fan of black suits. There is just such a disharmony between the black suits and the very young faces of applicants. I personally wore an ultra-trendy reddish-brown suit (which, in hindsight, was not too appropriate as the skirt was way to short and the jacket cut way too trendy)... but I am older and wiser now. 😀 I would choose the color based on personal preference.

As far as hair, anything which looks neat (as in accurate, not as in cool) and allows the interviewers to see the applicant's face and eyes is OK.

For shoes, wear something comfortable and decent looking. Interview process may or may not involve a tour of the campus or the tour of the building, keep that in mind. Shoe polish is a must, too (though women usually can remember that without needing to be reminded). 🙂 And something you can walk in. I feel awful seeing girls in heels when they obviously cannot walk in them, and hobble with their knees bent. Looks pitiful.

Make-up... just keep it reasonable. Not goth-like inch-thick eyeliner, please, or 80s-flashback eyeshadow. 😀

 

[Hels2007]

Should females wear pant suit or skirt suit or does it not matter?

Personal preference. Generally, on the scale of power-suits, the skirt suites project the best, followed by dress with a jacket followed by the pantsuit. However, if someone is self-conscious about her legs, for example, it's better to wear pants...

I personally wear skirts, but that's because my best suit makes my legs look amazing. 😛 But for me also heels are the confidence factor - if I have to give a big talk in front of an unfamiliar large audience, the higher my heels, the more comfortable I feel. 🙂

What do you guys think about a black cashmere suit jacket? Would that be too much of a suit jacket for the interview?

Can't say without having seen it. A black cashmere suit jacket can be a lot of different things.

 

[Hels2007]

What would be appropriate for women to bring? A portfolio, purse, or both?

I was thinking a portfolio, but where would I put my keys, makeup, and other necessities?

You can bring both... if you have a large bag, like a tote or a hobo, I would leave it at the coat room (or whichever place school has for the applicants to leave their belongings). If it's a small elegant bag, then you can keep it with you. Portfolio is up to you. No real need for it at that level.

However, if you do choose to bring portfolio with you, it's a good idea to put some samples of your work in there, especially if it is related to something you put down in your application or your resume. It's so nice when you ask a question about something, and the applicant smiles and says, that they can show you exactly what they did... doesn't happen very often, either, so it can help you stand out from the crowd.

 

[Hels2007]

Go ahead and wear perfume if you want to. But don't say you weren't warned when your interviewer ends up being allergic to it. You will not fair well.

Very, very good point. Especially for a morning interview! If it is in the afternoon, there is a chance that the perfume will mostly wear out during the course of the day, but if you are putting it on right before going to the interview... NO, PLEASE.

I remember one girl from last year. As soon as she left the room, my colleague said she couldn't wait for her to get the heck out, because her perfume was too strong and it was impossible to breathe in the small room (remember, interview rooms are small spaces! with limited air circulation). Needless to say, we did not choose that girl. For some reason, those who insist on pouring a bottle of perfume over themselves also choose the most ghastly scents. Remember, if someone is only thinking how to get you out of there, they will not be asking questions that will help you get in...

 

[medicalCPA]

Hels2007, all this time I could have sworn that you were a guy! Now I feel sheepish...

 

[koercive]

what color ties are you guys wearing with black suits?


I'm thinking a dark navy blue is probably considered the norm?? can anyone clarify this please

 

[mrblah]

You can wear whatever you want, but oxblood or dark red or burgundy tie with white shirt and black suit or dark grey suit will look good. You can't get any more conservative than that (which is good). I

Cheaping out on a suit is acceptable, but you guys have to remember its all about details. Get a nice tie, make sure the suit is tailored (i.e. fits you), and your shoes are polished.

Lastly, If you are a guy, you should wear a suit and tie, unless you crave attention, because you will probably be the only person interviewing not wearing one.

 

[Garfield3d]

I agree with Mr. Blah. It's important to match your tie with your shirt (and not just your coat jacket). A dark crimson red would go well with a black or dark grey shirt. Red ties against a blue shirt seems to go well too.

In general, when in doubt, keep it conservative. Feel free to switch it up with your shirt color, but don't do anything bold or crazy. Remember, the best impression that you're trying to make in an interview is with your responses and charisma.

What you wear is not going to sell your interview.

--Garfield3d

 

[EDLKim]

This is what I know:

1) Don't wear bright colors, stick to conservative colors or dark colors (brown, black, gray, coffee colors).

2) Girls: minimal makeup, avoid wearing perfume, simple hair style

3) Guys: well shaved, tie, avoid wearing cologne

Girls can wear long pants or skirts but the skirt should be close to knee-length. Avoid wearing short sleeves.
Guys should be wearing a professional business suit with a tie.

Basically dress like you are going to a funeral, business conference or church. Your answers and personality should stand out, not your outfit so don't do anything crazy. You don't have to dress in the typical black outfit and white blouse (I hate blouses), you can still be creative and stylish but just tone it down a notch. Your outfit isn't going to sell your interview, it's just going to represent you as a professional, serious, and credible applicant.

For girls you can go to either The Limited or Express (or Lerner New York) to get really nice blazers and pants for an affordable price. They have really chic and stylish but professional outfits for young people. I brought my jacket at The Limited for $150 and the pants for $68. So it's not bad at all. Shoes should be closed toe and closed in the back. Good luck with your attire.

 

[MCPharm27]

So, what if you can't wear a suit? I have been stressing over this. I don't fit into suits since I am nearly 7 months pregnant. I realize that there will probably be some understanding among the interviewers, but I want to make sure I look as professional as possible. Should I just focus on a nice blouse and pant combo or try to opt for a cardigan to compensate for a suit jacket? What about a nice long-skirted maternity dress with a cardigan?

Figures, I have three nice suits taking up space in my closet 🙁

 

[alenadoma]

So, what if you can't wear a suit? I have been stressing over this. I don't fit into suits since I am nearly 7 months pregnant. I realize that there will probably be some understanding among the interviewers, but I want to make sure I look as professional as possible. Should I just focus on a nice blouse and pant combo or try to opt for a cardigan to compensate for a suit jacket? What about a nice long-skirted maternity dress with a cardigan?

Figures, I have three nice suits taking up space in my closet 🙁

I'm sure they will understand your situation. I think that a nice blouse and pants will suffice. I'm not too farmiliar with maternity wear, but perhaps try to find a nice jacket to wear as well.

 

[Hels2007]

Hels2007, all this time I could have sworn that you were a guy! Now I feel sheepish...

Heh. Just because I was best in my class in math, can read maps better than my friend the airline pilot, and have the slavedriver personality, it doesn't make me less of a woman. 😀 Silly Americans with their silly preconceived gender roles. 😛 And I do indeed know quite a bit about dressing up from years of experience.

what color ties are you guys wearing with black suits?

I am partial to red ties in this instance. There's got to be a drop of color... though I think at least half the applicants tend to wear just that. Dark blue and silver would probably also look good...

Oh, speaking of menswear... don't wear the mocassin-like shoes with fringes or silly ties to the interview. They make me giggle.

So, what if you can't wear a suit? I have been stressing over this. I don't fit into suits since I am nearly 7 months pregnant. I realize that there will probably be some understanding among the interviewers, but I want to make sure I look as professional as possible. Should I just focus on a nice blouse and pant combo or try to opt for a cardigan to compensate for a suit jacket? What about a nice long-skirted maternity dress with a cardigan?(

Maternity wear is not something I have any familiarity with... If you think you will be warm enough, go with a blose and pants, if you think it will be cold in the building (hint: pharmacy schools often are) perhaps a nice sweater and pants. Cardigan probably not the best option, but a blazer could work... Actually, a maternity dress with a blazer or a cardigan would be great, I think. 🙂 I don't think anyone will judge you too strictly.

 

[StringTheorist]

suit. you are selling yourself short otherwise. if you cant go suit, go business casual. NOTHING ELSE. I am telling you, you will look like you dont belong and dont want it.

 

[WhiteSnows]

I am just gonna wear a short, and open clothes.

 

[medicalCPA]

Heh. Just because I was best in my class in math, can read maps better than my friend the airline pilot, and have the slavedriver personality, it doesn't make me less of a woman. 😀 Silly Americans with their silly preconceived gender roles. 😛 And I do indeed know quite a bit about dressing up from years of experience.

You know...I'm not American.

 

[MCPharm27]

Thanks so much for the advice, Hels2007!

 

[fugm]

not sure if this has been posted, but men's warehouse is having a buy one get one free sale on suits. You could get 2 suits for $400 which is reasonable. Also, they have some suits starting at $159