Hey y'all. I'm coming from a speech & debate background, where I had to wear competitive suits for like...7 years.
General guidelines:
1. Skirt or pants, doesn't matter. As long as they fit you well and look professional. Nothing more than 2" above the knee. I'm tall, so I say 2". But 1" might be safer.
2. Wear pantyhose. Most of the interviewers are older, and bare legs aren't really professional.
2b. No open toes. Because you're wearing hose, right? Good.
3. Natural makeup, unless you don't normally wear makeup. Wear what you're comfortable in, but nothing too much or too loud. They want your brain, not your lipstick.
4. Second pair of shoes is a good thing. Professional flats (not the $15 ballet flats at Target) that can stay nice while in your bag. Don't switch between the two in public. Don't let them see your other pair. No one wants to look at stinky shoes in your bag.
5. Bags are simple and professional. Prefferably something that can stand on its own (Longchamps are probably a no.) Black is always good, or a nice brown leather. Again, simple.
6. Heels shouldn't be too flashy. Browns, Blacks, Greys, maybe nudes if you're wearing a light colored suit. You're wearing hose.
7. Make sure your suit jacket isn't too tight when you sit. You're standing in the dressing room, but sitting for the most important parts of your interview day. If it's a suit set, keep it buttoned. If it's separates, ladies can keep it buttoned or not. Gents, you best unbutton that. #sometimesalwaysnever
8. Take your ponytail holders off of your wrists.
9. Nails are simple, groomed, professional. Light or french or bare. You're wearing gloves for 90% of your life.
10. Hail should be out of your face and clean. Keep extra bobbypins and hairspray available.
11. You know how on pinterest they have those bridal survival kits? Needle/thread, bandaids, safety pins, tampons, aspirin, deodorant, etc? Not a bad idea.
12. Brush your teeth. But you were doing that all ready, right? Right before you put on your hose.
