Women's interview attire questions

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ClusterC

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Hey ladies! Can anyone help me out with some basic interview attire questions?

1. Do interview skirts need to be below the knee, or is just above the knee OK? Mine is pretty much touching my kneecap.

2. I bought a black suit skirt and black suit pants from H&M, both of which have a skinny, black belt. Would a skinny belt be considered informal? I think the belts are cute, but I'm not sure if there's some fashion interview ettiquette that I don't know about.

3. Do I have to wear nylons with my skirt? I never wear nylons and don't even own a pair. I think my legs look fine without them, and I honestly don't understand the purpose of nylons. Will they notice that I don't have nylons? Is it considered informal not to wear them?

4. What kind of shirt do you wear under the jacket? Collared? Long or short sleeve? Sweater? Does it matter?

Thanks, ladies, for helping out a clueless interviewee. I'm not trying to be a fashionista... just trying not to unknowingly stand out in a bad way. 🙂
 
Does not sound sufficiently conservative to be honest. Each of your concerns already kind of iffy on their own.

ClusterC said:
Hey ladies! Can anyone help me out with some basic interview attire questions?

1. Do interview skirts need to be below the knee, or is just above the knee OK? Mine is pretty much touching my kneecap.

2. I bought a black suit skirt and black suit pants from H&M, both of which have a skinny, black belt. Would a skinny belt be considered informal? I think the belts are cute, but I'm not sure if there's some fashion interview ettiquette that I don't know about.

3. Do I have to wear nylons with my skirt? I never wear nylons and don't even own a pair. I think my legs look fine without them, and I honestly don't understand the purpose of nylons. Will they notice that I don't have nylons? Is it considered informal not to wear them?

4. What kind of shirt do you wear under the jacket? Collared? Long or short sleeve? Sweater? Does it matter?

Thanks, ladies, for helping out a clueless interviewee. I'm not trying to be a fashionista... just trying not to unknowingly stand out in a bad way. 🙂
Click to expand...
 
Hey ladies! Can anyone help me out with some basic interview attire questions?

1. Do interview skirts need to be below the knee, or is just above the knee OK? Mine is pretty much touching my kneecap.

Mine is just below my kneecap. I think if it touches your knee when sitting down that's fine.

2. I bought a black suit skirt and black suit pants from H&M, both of which have a skinny, black belt. Would a skinny belt be considered informal? I think the belts are cute, but I'm not sure if there's some fashion interview ettiquette that I don't know about.

Not sure about this but I think black sounds fine and conservative enough. As long as it's not some wild leopard print.

3. Do I have to wear nylons with my skirt? I never wear nylons and don't even own a pair. I think my legs look fine without them, and I honestly don't understand the purpose of nylons. Will they notice that I don't have nylons? Is it considered informal not to wear them?

I never wear nylons either but I guess it's considered more conservative to wear them? Anyone else have any opinions on this?

4. What kind of shirt do you wear under the jacket? Collared? Long or short sleeve? Sweater? Does it matter?

I'm wearing a collared shirt underneath. Some people seem to wear shells.

Thanks, ladies, for helping out a clueless interviewee. I'm not trying to be a fashionista... just trying not to unknowingly stand out in a bad way. 🙂
 
I hate wearing nylons too, but I think you should wear them for interviews. You may consider buying a pair of matching pants in case the weather gets cold.
I think skirts that go below the knees look ridiculous, especially if you are petite like me. I think you are fine.
Don't worry about the belt, no big deal.
Shirt-really doesn't matter; personal preference. I hate collared shirts.
 
ClusterC said:
Hey ladies! Can anyone help me out with some basic interview attire questions?

1. Do interview skirts need to be below the knee, or is just above the knee OK? Mine is pretty much touching my kneecap.
Click to expand...
I think the bigger issue is where does it hit you when you sit down? If its way down to the bottom 3/4 of your thigh then you're probably fine. The MOST important thing is that its appropriate and you're comfortable. If its short/tight enough that you're tugging it down whenever you sit then its too short.
2. I bought a black suit skirt and black suit pants from H&M, both of which have a skinny, black belt. Would a skinny belt be considered informal? I think the belts are cute, but I'm not sure if there's some fashion interview ettiquette that I don't know about.
Click to expand...
I think the belt is fine so long as its on the skirt. Don't wear it outside the jacket.
3. Do I have to wear nylons with my skirt? I never wear nylons and don't even own a pair. I think my legs look fine without them, and I honestly don't understand the purpose of nylons. Will they notice that I don't have nylons? Is it considered informal not to wear them?
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You should wear nylons. Its considered professional to wear them.

I agree most people in our generation NEVER wear nylons and we're not used to them, but its just what is considered appropriate in professional business attire. Go to target or walmart and buy a SHEAR seamless pair - they're much more comfortable and don't bunch like others. You won't remember you're wearing them.
4. What kind of shirt do you wear under the jacket? Collared? Long or short sleeve? Sweater? Does it matter?
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You can wear a collared shirt or you can wear a shell. I prefered a shell because having two layers of long sleeves was too hot for me and I don't like the bunching feeling it causes. Get a collared shirt or silk shell from Macys, Ann Taylor, etc. It shouldn't be too tight and it shouldn't be too non-traditionally colored. Doesn't have to be white, but I would avoid hot pink, red, etc.

I personally don't like black suits, they're boring and in the business world years ago black was inappropriate for day times - so I wore either a tan or steel blue suit. It wasn't a problem. You can be a little different and pick something you like and feel good in. Just don't be tacky or innappropriate.

Don't over think it. I think the biggest things are not super bright/tacky colors , not too short, heels you can walk in and wear nylons.
 
I really was over-thinking it. The skirt doesn't cover my knees, but it's definitely not too short, even when I'm sitting down. I'm pretty tall, so it's hard to find a skirt that covers my knees anyway. The belt is subtle, on the skirt, and not even visible when the jacket is closed. It's just a cute detail that makes my otherwise super-boring/typical suit more interesting.

I think I'll go with a blue or green shell for comfort.

And, you guys are right- I'll get over myself and wear nylons. 😉

Thanks ladies, for your helpful replies. I'm feeling much less clueless now. 🙂
 
do you think the shell should be long sleeved or can it be short-sleeved or sleeveless? I was planning on wearing a collared shirt but i just hate hate those and would rather buy a new shell than new collared shirt
 
NYCDO1 said:
do you think the shell should be long sleeved or can it be short-sleeved or sleeveless? I was planning on wearing a collared shirt but i just hate hate those and would rather buy a new shell than new collared shirt
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I always wore sleeveless shells. However, I think in general if you do that - don't take your jacket off during the interview day.
 
is anybody bringing a bag? if so, what kind?
 
Posted this on another thread:

I use this bag all the time: http://www.wilsonsleather.com/produc...id=body_rv_img

I'm planning on taking it on all my interviews too. I had something similar for med school interviews that finally died a year ago after using it all the time as well. I'm not a big backpack person so I'd carry it to and from class and during rotations to carry things like my white coat, stethoscope, water bottle, a book, lunch, etc. I also use it as my "personal item" when traveling since it fits my computer and kindle nicely. I don't use that random extra long strap. The two attached are good sized. It's slim enough that it doesn't get in the way, yet big enough that you can easily carry a folder that they will give you. Just don't stuff it full of crap that you won't need so you don't look like the crazy bag lady. I've gotten many compliments from attendings and clinic staff on it since it still looks professional.
 
shantster said:
Posted this on another thread:

I use this bag all the time: http://www.wilsonsleather.com/produc...id=body_rv_img

I'm planning on taking it on all my interviews too. I had something similar for med school interviews that finally died a year ago after using it all the time as well. I'm not a big backpack person so I'd carry it to and from class and during rotations to carry things like my white coat, stethoscope, water bottle, a book, lunch, etc. I also use it as my "personal item" when traveling since it fits my computer and kindle nicely. I don't use that random extra long strap. The two attached are good sized. It's slim enough that it doesn't get in the way, yet big enough that you can easily carry a folder that they will give you. Just don't stuff it full of crap that you won't need so you don't look like the crazy bag lady. I've gotten many compliments from attendings and clinic staff on it since it still looks professional.
Click to expand...

Thank link is broken. Do you mind reposting?
 
Totally going to start a fashion website for women in medicine after this whole match thing is over.
Don't even get me started on scrubs and oversized white coats.
 
belle54321 said:
Totally going to start a fashion website for women in medicine after this whole match thing is over.
Don't even get me started on scrubs and oversized white coats.
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There are a few out there. Blue sky scrubs and medelita come to mind.
 
OMGIMG said:
I am planning on wearing something like this but in gray.

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_6IOpEx384Y4/S_6zfLY7YzI/AAAAAAAAAL4/5bJY0a82GSY/s1600/women_suits.jpg

Would that be OK or is it better to wear a skirt?

I really don´t like tight skirts because of my body type. Feel like a Christina Hendricks look a like.
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That should be fine (pantsuits are widely accepted for women during interviews), but make sure you wear something under the jacket that shows over the buttons!
 
Few questions:

1. Pre interview dinners are 'business casual' . Is it okay to not have my long hair completely pulled back but have it just styled neatly?

2. Also if I'm wearing a skirt at the dinner do I need to wear nylons? (I'm wearing them on my actual interview day but do I need to wear them for the dinner also, my skirt is knee length).




I realize this is all nitpicky stuff but my interviews are coming up and I'm starting to stress out about all the tiny details!
 
arielred said:
Few questions:

1. Pre interview dinners are 'business casual' . Is it okay to not have my long hair completely pulled back but have it just styled neatly?

2. Also if I'm wearing a skirt at the dinner do I need to wear nylons? (I'm wearing them on my actual interview day but do I need to wear them for the dinner also, my skirt is knee length).




I realize this is all nitpicky stuff but my interviews are coming up and I'm starting to stress out about all the tiny details!
Click to expand...
Pre-interview dinners aren't really even business casual: most of the residents will show up in jeans or scrubs.

Business casual is safe, do whatever you want with your hair, no nylons required for the dinner.
 
ClusterC said:
Hey ladies! Can anyone help me out with some basic interview attire questions?

1. Do interview skirts need to be below the knee, or is just above the knee OK? Mine is pretty much touching my kneecap.
Click to expand...

My English teacher said this:
"A woman's skirt should be long enough to cover the subject, but short enough to remain interesting."
 
PMPMD said:
My English teacher said this:
"A woman's skirt should be long enough to cover the subject, but short enough to remain interesting."
Click to expand...

I like that analogy. I was raised in the Catholic school way of thinking that the skirt should be at the length where your finger tips hit when standing straight. The problem for me is that from waist up I'm a petite and waist down I'm a regular so that would put my skirt a lot shorter than I'd be comfortable with.

Now I go with the general rule of being at the top of the kneecap or just above it.
 
Quick question -- What color pantyhose should you wear? I know previous posts have mentioned nude, but those don't match my skin tone. Is it okay to just wear sheer black nylons? Does this even matter at all? Thanks!
 
Since I'm african-american the "nude" color doesn't look to good on me either. 😉 I chose a coffee-type color that matched my shade of skin. I think basically when people say "nude" they mean anything that is sheer and matches your skin tone. It should look natural. Hope this helps.

curious lately said:
Quick question -- What color pantyhose should you wear? I know previous posts have mentioned nude, but those don't match my skin tone. Is it okay to just wear sheer black nylons? Does this even matter at all? Thanks!
Click to expand...
 
Another quick question. Is is okay to leave your jacket unbuttoned or does it have to be buttoned(meaning will I still look professional enough if it is left unbuttoned)?
 
Yes, it is considered professional for them to be worn. That being said, the main point is that they should not draw attention to themselves.

Go for a "match your skin tone" "I really can't tell you are wearing any" shade.

In other words, do not wear white snowflake patterned tights, even if they do match your shirt; or fishnets...sigh. Yes, it has happened.:laugh: (and no, they did not match with us!)

When it comes to the top--Most hospitals have dress codes, and they include no sleeveless tops or dresses for women. (yes, I know you are still young and in shape and don't have the "flying squirrel arms" yet, but rules is rules). I have seen at the lunch most people take their jackets off to be comfortable. If you have a sleeveless shell, DON"T take your jacket off.

And if an accessory is subtle and tasteful..(not pink leopard spots, for instance) chances are we really are not going to notice, or if we do, it will be to compliment you. (I remember one applicant a few years ago had an interesting lapel pin/brooch. It had been handed down a couple of generations, was a great conversation starter, and let her personality really shine. She was a top match for us!)
 
a related question: for those of us wearing pants, do we still need to wear nylons/socks or is it fine to not wear any with dress shoes?
 
BoxingTheStars said:
a related question: for those of us wearing pants, do we still need to wear nylons/socks or is it fine to not wear any with dress shoes?
Click to expand...


I hate nylons and don't usually wear them, but for interviews, I think you should wear nylons or socks. Are you in the west or south? Because it is quite cold here in the northeast, so nylons really make sense now.
 
Maybe a bit off topic but... all the other female applicants are so thin! In general I think women in America generally are a bit heavier than in Germany but not the applicants.

I am a it chunky, but not a big deal, but during the interviews I am almost always the biggest!
 
koc123 said:
I hate nylons and don't usually wear them, but for interviews, I think you should wear nylons or socks. Are you in the west or south? Because it is quite cold here in the northeast, so nylons really make sense now.
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I wear trouser socks with my dress shoes at every interview--I have thin ones and thicker ones for different weather situations. For one, it looks better when crossing legs, etc. (I'm self-conscious because our deans have stories about applicants not wearing socks to interviews--and they DO notice.) Another plus, as someone mentioned, they can keep feet and legs warm. And finally, after walking all day, for several days, they help keep the sweaty-foot smell down when you wear the shoes later on.

OMGIMG said:
Maybe a bit off topic but... all the other female applicants are so thin! In general I think women in America generally are a bit heavier than in Germany but not the applicants.

I am a it chunky, but not a big deal, but during the interviews I am almost always the biggest!
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I'm about 5'9" before heels, and wear a US size 12. It makes me a little conspicuous when standing in a group mainly consisting of women, so I tend to gravitate toward the men in the group. However, something that I have learned, and try to tell myself before each individual interview, is that my application speaks for itself, and I can have a 20-minute conversation with anyone, about pretty much anything. This process makes us inherently insecure, and those of us outside of the social "ideal" can feel more so because of this. But, you got an interview, so the program is seriously considering you--take the opportunity to make them love you as an applicant during your visit!!
 
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Anyone have a picture of how pants should fit? I feel like it could be tricky to walk the line btw too trendy vs too old lady. Specifically, I've seen ppl on interviews wearing trendy flared pants, which looks trashy to me. However, I've tried on some straight legged pants and they look horrible... almost like they don't fit bc they're made for an older woman's body. I know it's not a fashion show and would much rather bc conservative and unflattered than too trendy, but wanted to see what other ppl are wearing. Could we safely wear wide legged pants?
B2F974C0.jpg

Women-s-Suit-Long-Sleeve-Single-Button-Shawl-Collar-Jacket-Wide-Leg-Pants-Brand-Women-Suit.jpg

^(but not this tight)
 
Mass Effect said:
Why would dresses and sleeveless tops be against a hospital dress code? What's the reasoning behind it? That they don't look professional?
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I'm not sure of their reasoning behind it, but sleeveless tops and dresses for women have traditionally been considered too casual. Perhaps it's the fear that the next step is a wife beater and mullett.

Times have changed, and society is more casual. I routinely wear sleeveless tops and dresses in the office but then again, I'm the boss so I can do whatever I want. I've only seen one of the hospitals that I have privileges at comment on the dress code and that is to state that no jeans or sweatpants are allowed. I can't believe they have to tell staff that but obviously it's been a problem.

So while the rules may not make sense and are often more restrictive for women than men, this is one where gender equality occurs. Men aren't allowed to wear sleeveless shirt either. Regardless of the change in society, it is best to keep your arms undercover during something as formal as a job interview.
 
Mass Effect said:
During the interview, absolutely. Better to be safe than risk it. I was just wondering about the reasoning behind it. I often wear a sleeveless top under my white coat while on rotations and I usually take off my white coat if I grab a bite to eat in the cafeteria. I never realized I might be breaking a dress code (didn't even know one existed, outside of always looking professional). Very interesting.
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Yes most places of business have dress codes even if they're not conspicuously posted. I could also imagine that one of the reasons for the restriction against sleeveless top is that some women don't shave underneath their arms. Even the most liberal amongst us don't really care to see the results of that especially in the cafeteria!
 
Winged Scapula said:
Yes most places of business have dress codes even if they're not conspicuously posted. I could also imagine that one of the reasons for the restriction against sleeveless top is that some women don't shave underneath their arms. Even the most liberal amongst us don't really care to see the results of that especially in the cafeteria!
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niiicee 😍. no i am kidding, that's gross
 
Just curious why everyone hates wearing nylons?

There are numerous brands that make extremely sheer & seamless hose that are actually very elegant. And you can't even tell that you are wearing them. You don't have to buy the poorly made brands that are super tight & un-breathable. Spend a little more on a nicer brand and get a seamless, sheer, & silky pair.

My boyfriend actually likes when I wear them. He says they are a turn on. Who knew ha?!
 
The reasoning behind no sleeveless tops/dresses is because there is always the ONE who ruins it for everyone...the front desk staff, nice lady, in her 40's, overweight, and shows up in a strappy sundress. Looks great on someone else, but not her. Or the program coordinator in her 50's that still thinks she looks like she 20 years ago..you do NOT want to see those flying squirrel arms!

As to the nylon vs. no nylon debate: For those of us in the South, I don't care how nice they are, how thin and sheer they are, take 6 steps outside of the door and you are bathed in sweat. In places you don't want to sweat. Even in October/November. Not comfortable at all. Never mind the fact that you managed to put a run in them BEFORE the interviews even started this morning..so now, you have to either take them off, or run around with a ladder in them all day. That does get you noticed, just not in a good way!
 
killerleaf said:
The reasoning behind no sleeveless tops/dresses is because there is always the ONE who ruins it for everyone...the front desk staff, nice lady, in her 40's, overweight, and shows up in a strappy sundress. Looks great on someone else, but not her. Or the program coordinator in her 50's that still thinks she looks like she 20 years ago..you do NOT want to see those flying squirrel arms!

As to the nylon vs. no nylon debate: For those of us in the South, I don't care how nice they are, how thin and sheer they are, take 6 steps outside of the door and you are bathed in sweat. In places you don't want to sweat. Even in October/November. Not comfortable at all. Never mind the fact that you managed to put a run in them BEFORE the interviews even started this morning..so now, you have to either take them off, or run around with a ladder in them all day. That does get you noticed, just not in a good way!
Click to expand...

I live in the South as well. So I'm not quiet sure your argument. Sounds like it may be more of a hygiene issue. Obviously, you would not want to wear them out in the dead of summer. So I can agree with you there. This may also explain the run you get. Keeping your legs shaved & lotioned goes a long way in preventing runs. Also spending more than $3.50 on a cheap pair at the dollar store will also help prevent this problem.

It's really just a personal preference. I have a group of friends who actually like wearing them & use them as a great accessory in their wardrobe. They wear them with class. I also have friends that don't like them as much. It's really just whatever you feel comfortable in.
 
Ar2 said:
I live in the South as well. So I'm not quiet sure your argument. Sounds like it may be more of a hygiene issue. Obviously, you would not want to wear them out in the dead of summer. So I can agree with you there. This may also explain the run you get. Keeping your legs shaved & lotioned goes a long way in preventing runs. Also spending more than $3.50 on a cheap pair at the dollar store will also help prevent this problem.

It's really just a personal preference. I have a group of friends who actually like wearing them & use them as a great accessory in their wardrobe. They wear them with class. I also have friends that don't like them as much. It's really just whatever you feel comfortable in.
Click to expand...

To add to this.. You can also go the way of thigh-highs if you don't like wearing full pantyhose. These provide a great alternative to pantyhose & are very comfortable.

I believe Berkshire also makes a pair of garter belt pantyhose. They are really thigh-highs with an attached lace garter belt to provide stability. Very comfortable & classy. And much more "breathable" than traditional hose.
 
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