Women's Interview Clothing #3!

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Yeah I think our (the gal and I who were discussing this, I'm leaving her name out of this) felt like it really revolved around the ankles. There has to be taper between the calves and ankles to get the proper line/curves with a skirt. Skirts definitely are nicer to women with fuller hips, I agree. This is because women's suit pants are typically straight cut from the width of the helps and can give too much weight to the lower half.

Exactly. I don't mind my legs from the knees down, so I was happy with the skirt. 🙂 I thought the suit pants looked like some kind of hideous thigh-hugging period clothing on me. :laugh:

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You know there was a big discussion along on skirt v. pants in the last thread right? And it was men and women discussing the merits of either piece of clothing. I apologize if my indelicate terminology offended you. I was having this discussion with a woman who brought it up first and agreed with my take recently.

I'm not implying that medical school acceptances are about being physically attractive. I am implying that there are subconscious correlations between finding someone attractive and being more willing to give them a good review; ignoring that is naive. I am also saying explicitly that clothing is about presenting your physical assets in an appropriate and attractive manner --for men and women. Suits are cut different ways for skinny/average/fat men in order to make them look as muscular as possible. Trim fit suit pants often aim to present the lower section similar to women's clothing.

I don't think I have to worry about that.

I may have misunderstood your comments, but I was commenting on what they sounded like to me and apparently, to a few other people. What you said about "skinny" women can wear either pants or skirt is somewhat troubling, because of the prevalence of body image issues in young women today. As a future doctor, this would be a good time to practice some empathy and understand women's problems with their bodies and how having men (or women) make these types of comments can exacerbate their body image issues. Furthermore, while you may not say these things out loud in front of your (future) patients, there are "subconscious correlations between finding someone not attractive" and conveying that message to them.
I realize that there may be a correlation between attractiveness and good reviews, but I think you have a very shallow view of what attractive actually means. I thought the point of this thread was to find something to wear so that the interviewee will be comfortable, professional, and their clothes will not be as memorable as their personality and what they have to say. Maybe I am not getting something?
 
Speaking of jackets, the more well-endowed ladies will probably prefer 2 or 3 button jackets over just one. I thought the jackets with only one button were really unflattering on me.

And thank you for the edit, Flow, but I personally disagree. I think those that are more self conscious about their thighs and their butt (like myself) will find they look better in a skirt. I thought a pencil skirt would look awful on me (I'm short and I hate my thighs) but I found it much more flattering than I expected... definitely better than the pant suits I tried on, too.

As they say on "What Not To Wear": Lock and load :laugh:
 
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Moreover, I think a skirt does a MUCH better job of hiding flaws than suit pants do.

Depends. God knows I have flaws, but the pants I picked up today looked much better than the skirt I tried on.

However, suit jacket and pants and two shirts bought today for $250 at Jones New York. 😍 Kasper was a touch cheaper (probably full suit for $150-$200), but the quality was noticeably lower. All I need to do now is get my good boots shined and the scuffs buffed out. It's a great day!
 
Good luck to all you ladies this cycle. It seems everyone from this thread is going to be, as my high school Econ teacher said, "Smokin!" lol. I'm not applying this cycle but was curious about how ad coms felt about having your nails done, maybe simple french tips?
 
That's what I was expecting. Sigh. I like comfy shoes...

On a side note, since we're talking about clothes, anyone care to give me some advice? I'm meeting with the head of radiation oncology at a teaching hospital later this month to talk about the opportunity to shadow either him or another physician in the department. What should I wear? I doubt a suit is really necessary but I don't want to be wearing jeans. Is a skirt and a clean top or a tank underneath a clean cardigan okay with some simple everyday flats? Think Anthropologie-type a-line skirt.
 
That's what I was expecting. Sigh. I like comfy shoes...

On a side note, since we're talking about clothes, anyone care to give me some advice? I'm meeting with the head of radiation oncology at a teaching hospital later this month to talk about the opportunity to shadow either him or another physician in the department. What should I wear? I doubt a suit is really necessary but I don't want to be wearing jeans. Is a skirt and a clean top or a tank underneath a clean cardigan okay with some simple everyday flats? Think Anthropologie-type a-line skirt.

Well, it's just my one opinion, maybe someone else will feel differently!
I feel ya on the comfy shoe business, but I think there is some sort of compromise to be found. Maybe try something like this: http://www.shoes.com/en-US/Product/EC1284474-5162552/Ros+Hommerson/Black/Women's+Poppy.aspx (I don't know, I just googled haha).

As to the second count, I think your ideas about what to wear are spot on. LOVE anthropologie. 👍
 
As to the second count, I think your ideas about what to wear are spot on. LOVE anthropologie. 👍

Awesome. Anthropologie is 👍👍👍. If only it just could coincide with my budget more often... luckily I've always ended up with things I love at a decent sale price.
 
Awesome. Anthropologie is 👍👍👍. If only it just could coincide with my budget more often... luckily I've always ended up with things I love at a decent sale price.

See, I don't look at anthropologie as being expensive; it's just an adventure in finding something reasonably priced.

The other day I got a top that was originally marked $168 for $19... heck yes.

mission-accomplished.jpg
 
Sorry for the delayed responses guys! In my defense, I was drinking rum sunrises on the beach 🙂

It's not a very vibrant red...it's a deep red, close to maroon (at least in the picture). And is it possible to balance sexy and professional? I really don't want to be limited to grays and blacks

Possible to balance sexy and professional? I'm afraid not; those are antithetical concepts. ATTRACTIVE and professional, you betcha!

Well it's just my opinion. Maybe km17 will chime in 🙂.

I agree with Bza and above about the red dress. While I'm ok bending the "no red" rule for a red jacket, the dress is a bit much. I do think the style of the dress is perfectly fine if paired with a jacket.

I think the neckline of the second dress would be difficult to pair with a jacket. I'd also avoid "cut-out" necklines (such as this dress, or keyholes) because they are designed to show extra chest (even if they don't show cleavage) and I don't think that's a look interviewees should go for.

I got a light silvery skirt at Ann Taylor with good black jacket. They aren't matching but I think they look good together. Will this be okay or should I stick with some gray pants I have? 😕

I also got some cheap but comfy smoky blue pumps to replace the uncomfortable ones I had bought before. They are really more gray than blue, so I am hoping those will work.

Not matching is ok, metallic skirts are not. If your skirt is metallic or shimmery or silky, I'd say it would probably be too casual/clubby. Especially if you're coordinating different colors in your suit, I would try to match your shoes to at least one of those colors to avoid looking not put together.

I need a bra that lifts and separates. 😳

Hahahahaha 😀 How about one that doesn't give artificial back-fat under blouses?

Speaking of jackets, the more well-endowed ladies will probably prefer 2 or 3 button jackets over just one. I thought the jackets with only one button were really unflattering on me.

+1 to this. Jackets with 2 and 3 buttons should be worn with either the top (for 2 buttons), or middle (3 buttons), or top and middle (3 buttons) buttons buttoned when standing. (How many times can I used buttoned in one sentence?)

And thank you for the edit, Flow, but I personally disagree. I think those that are more self conscious about their thighs and their butt (like myself) will find they look better in a skirt. I thought a pencil skirt would look awful on me (I'm short and I hate my thighs) but I found it much more flattering than I expected... definitely better than the pant suits I tried on, too.

Pencil skirts are a god-send for flattering the junk in your trunk. My go-to bottoms.

I'm not applying this cycle but was curious about how ad coms felt about having your nails done, maybe simple french tips?

In general, I believe having your nails gives off a girly vibe, but not a unprofessional one. If by french tips, you mean a french manicure, that would be fine, but I'd stay away from artificial tips.

I will say, I used to get made fun of at work (in an affectionate way) for maintaining a french manicure.


I think something like this would great to wear with a pantsuit...it would probably depend on the skirt for a skirtsuit (Fitzwell makes a very comfy shoe):

http://www.zappos.com/product/7828914/color/2759

See, I don't look at anthropologie as being expensive; it's just an adventure in finding something reasonably priced.

The other day I got a top that was originally marked $168 for $19... heck yes.

mission-accomplished.jpg

I 😍this kid.
 
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Let me know if I missed any questions in the above!
 
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Hi ladies,

After reading this thread, I am so excited to go suit shopping! I found an adorable suit last week but am hesitant to buy it because it has ¾ length sleeves. Its light gray, fit perfectly and I already have a pair of heels to go with it! Just wondering what the consensus is on ¾ length sleeves. I am a girly girl, definitely into fashion and prefer a trendier suit but still want to appear professional. Unfortunately I don't have a picture of it.
 
I really need some advices on shoes!

Uhmm I wear shoes with size 5 and not many places carry that small. I have trouble wearing heels unless they have straps that hold my heels down or else I would walk right out of the shoes.

Is slingback ok for interview? Do I have to go with the tradition/classic heels?
Do the shoes have to be closed toes?, also is black patent ok? or have to be just black leather.

Thank you!!!
 
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I really need some advices on shoes!

Uhmm I wear shoes with size 5 and not many places carry that small. I have trouble wearing heels unless they have straps that hold my heels down or else I would walk right out of the shoes.

Is slingback ok for interview? Do I have to go with the tradition/classic heels?
Do the shoes have to be closed toes?, also is black patent ok? or have to be just black leather.

Thank you!!!

Nordstroms! They have dozens of pairs in size 5.
Here's one with a strap, it isn't the only one that fits that description.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/naya-chalice-mary-jane-pump/3123140?origin=category&resultback=5568

I know that some people on this thread don't believe that sling backs are appropriate but I don't see a problem; I've seen attendings wear them. Patent leather? I wouldn't have a problem with it although I'm not likely to notice shoes.
 
@LizzyM

Thank you so much! I did not know Nordstroms carry size that small! They even have size 4 and 4.5! I am so excited lol😍
 
Hi ladies,

After reading this thread, I am so excited to go suit shopping! I found an adorable suit last week but am hesitant to buy it because it has ¾ length sleeves. Its light gray, fit perfectly and I already have a pair of heels to go with it! Just wondering what the consensus is on ¾ length sleeves. I am a girly girl, definitely into fashion and prefer a trendier suit but still want to appear professional. Unfortunately I don't have a picture of it.

With a light grey AND 3/4 length sleeve suit, I'd be worried about my suit looking appropriate for interviews in the winter or up north. Keep this in mind if you think your interviews will fall into either of these categories.

I really need some advices on shoes!

Uhmm I wear shoes with size 5 and not many places carry that small. I have trouble wearing heels unless they have straps that hold my heels down or else I would walk right out of the shoes.

Is slingback ok for interview? Do I have to go with the tradition/classic heels?
Do the shoes have to be closed toes?, also is black patent ok? or have to be just black leather.

Thank you!!!

Zappos.com is amazing. I just checked, and they have 428 pairs of black dress heels in size 5 (They go down to 3.5) 🙂 Free shipping for both orders and returns, so you can try out a bunch. They're the Amazon of shoes. (Literally, Amazon bought them a while ago.)

Nordstroms! They have dozens of pairs in size 5.
Here's one with a strap, it isn't the only one that fits that description.
http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/naya-chalice-mary-jane-pump/3123140?origin=category&resultback=5568

I know that some people on this thread don't believe that sling backs are appropriate but I don't see a problem; I've seen attendings wear them. Patent leather? I wouldn't have a problem with it although I'm not likely to notice shoes.

As one of the people that LizzyM is referencing here, I'd like to explain my position.

There are formal, business formal dress rules. These rules say your shoes should be closed toe, closed heel (no sling black), non-stiletto, black leather pumps of 1-2 inches.

My personal opinion is that heel height is the least important of these factors. I believe the cut and material of your shoe is what makes it appropriate, not the heel height (under 4"...more is probably over the top). As a not especially tall female, I will never say some one shouldn't have that extra boost of height if they want it! Other people may differ here, but my observation seems to hold true across my profession. If I had to recommend the next rule to bend, I'd say change the no patent leather rule.

Do my co-workers wear patent to work? Yes. Do attendings wear sling backs to work? I'm sure they do. Does that make them business FORMAL? No.

Now, most importantly...does it matter? Honestly, if you're wearing a black, fairly conservative-looking shoe, I doubt many people will look twice. We're not applying for jobs in fashion. All of these rules are really just guidelines to ensure that we're giving appropriate deference to the seriousness of the program to which we're applying.

My advice will always tend towards the strictly business formal guidelines, because I want to give advice that I'm confident people who follow it will not have to second guess their appearance for a second. No one has to follow it to a tee, and many of the other contributors here (LizzyM and GeekChick are great examples), will tell you where this advice differs from what they are accustomed to seeing on interview day.
 
Keep in mind that medical school is not a bank. It is not a brokerage house. It is not an insurance company. It is not the US State Department.

I do believe that the "formal business attire" might be a little bit too severe for med school interview.

I'd steer clear of fishnet stockings, shiny satin blouses, and blouses unbuttoned to show a camisole.
 
I really need some advices on shoes!

Uhmm I wear shoes with size 5 and not many places carry that small. I have trouble wearing heels unless they have straps that hold my heels down or else I would walk right out of the shoes.

Is slingback ok for interview? Do I have to go with the tradition/classic heels?
Do the shoes have to be closed toes?, also is black patent ok? or have to be just black leather.

Thank you!!!

With the way society/fashion is going, you could probably find kids' high heels that would work.

And in all seriousness, that makes me kind of sad.
 
A (possibly not so stylish) woman's take on your comments:
1) In a workplace, specifically, a hospital, those comments would be considered sexual harassment and generally are not and should not be tolerated.
2) The women posting on this thread or applying to medical school in general are not interested in showing off, for your viewing pleasure, their "thick and nice ass" or legs or whatever other body part you may have in mind, but rather, they are trying to make a good impression as a professional and competent human, not a hot chick with a fantastic ass. Furthermore, you are implying that looking good (or skinny, hot, etc...) somehow has to to do with getting accepted into medical school (for women, that is). I should hope that in 2011, that is no longer the case.
3) I am not sure what your future career plans, but if you want to go forth and make a good impression on interviewers, etc... try being more respectful towards women. I am not sure if you have noticed, but women make up almost half of all medical school classes and possibly also the physicians who will be teaching you throughout medical school.

Flowrate is right in many ways, that's the ugly truth. Interviewers are humans - doctors do questionable stuff in their private lives too. Why should they think so differently? Presenting your most attractive self (not just physical) will give you the best result in many ways. That said, pushup bras hanging out your blouse won't make a great impression either. But attractiveness is, as unfair as it may sound, part of the game for some people.
 
Flowrate is right in many ways, that's the ugly truth. Interviewers are humans - doctors do questionable stuff in their private lives too. Why should they think so differently? Presenting your most attractive self (not just physical) will give you the best result in many ways. That said, pushup bras hanging out your blouse won't make a great impression either. But attractiveness is, as unfair as it may sound, part of the game for some people.

I agree with you, but my working definition for attractiveness in interviews differs from the sexual attractiveness definition. I would like to believe that interviewers are looking for attractive people not in a sexual way but in a way that embodies confidence and ease; someone who would interact with patients and colleagues in the best way. Nice ass doesn't fall into that category, in my opinion, and honestly, I hardly think that a woman wearing a skirt who has "cankles" will affect her interviewer's impression of her, as long as she presents herself in a professionally attractive manner.
 
Ok so I just got my first interview invite and I've finally started thinking about this stuff. Annnnd, I have a question about piercings. I have three holes in each lobe and an Industrial piercing in my right ear as well as a stud in my nose. I'm pretty sure I'll wear the small stud in my nose but I'm really unsure about what to do about the ears. Simple pearls in the main piercings and leave the other two empty? Put a simple stud in those? What about the industrial? I'll definitely take the bar out, but should I leave the (14 gauge) holes empty or put in something simple like hoops? Thanks for the help, ladies!
 
Ok so I just got my first interview invite and I've finally started thinking about this stuff. Annnnd, I have a question about piercings. I have three holes in each lobe and an Industrial piercing in my right ear as well as a stud in my nose. I'm pretty sure I'll wear the small stud in my nose but I'm really unsure about what to do about the ears. Simple pearls in the main piercings and leave the other two empty? Put a simple stud in those? What about the industrial? I'll definitely take the bar out, but should I leave the (14 gauge) holes empty or put in something simple like hoops? Thanks for the help, ladies!

I think you have the right idea here! Without seeing the exact placement of your industrial piercings, I would think you would be fine to just leave them empty completely since most holes in your upper ear will be somewhat obscured by hair or the fold of your earlobe.

I would probably only wear the pearls or other studs in your primary ear piercing in each ear, and leave all the others (including nose) empty. Maybe someone who interviewed in previous cycles and had a nose piercing can chime in to tell you what they did?
 
I think you have the right idea here! Without seeing the exact placement of your industrial piercings, I would think you would be fine to just leave them empty completely since most holes in your upper ear will be somewhat obscured by hair or the fold of your earlobe.

I would probably only wear the pearls or other studs in your primary ear piercing in each ear, and leave all the others (including nose) empty. Maybe someone who interviewed in previous cycles and had a nose piercing can chime in to tell you what they did?

Thanks km17! I think an empty nose piercing will look totally weird, though. 🙁
I agree about all the others. I'm just sort of worried the empty industrial will be strange, too. The holes are bigger than the typical ear piercing, even cartilage ones. Anyone else have any thoughts on this?
 
I have a pair of light grey dress pants that I LOVE ... do you think a black suit jacket would look okay with them? it's always a risk going non-matching...
 
Thanks km17! I think an empty nose piercing will look totally weird, though. 🙁
I agree about all the others. I'm just sort of worried the empty industrial will be strange, too. The holes are bigger than the typical ear piercing, even cartilage ones. Anyone else have any thoughts on this?

The following are just my thoughts, so please take them for that...I doubt that today, many interviewers (or patients!) would be shocked by the fact that you have a nose piercing. The point of removal of extra "hardware" is not necessarily to "hide" the piercing so that interviewers cannot tell you have one, but to not call attention to the piercing in a formal interview setting for a highly professional position.

FYI, they do make concealable nose rings of plastic for this exact purpose...maybe they have something similar for your ear? If you really feel attached to your nose piercing, I'd find the smallest stud possible and avoid anything glittery.

Again, just my thoughts, and I will acknowledge that I always err on the conservative side!
 
I have a pair of light grey dress pants that I LOVE ... do you think a black suit jacket would look okay with them? it's always a risk going non-matching...

Try looking up the manufacturer or retailer of the pant to see if they produce a jacket in the same material. If not, non-matching suits aren't strictly taboo, and can look quite nice if done correctly. I'd avoid a jacket that looks like it came straight from another suit set (you don't want to look like you just forgot to dry clean the black pants!). Look for accent jackets that are marketed to be worn as separates.
 
The following are just my thoughts, so please take them for that...I doubt that today, many interviewers (or patients!) would be shocked by the fact that you have a nose piercing. The point of removal of extra "hardware" is not necessarily to "hide" the piercing so that interviewers cannot tell you have one, but to not call attention to the piercing in a formal interview setting for a highly professional position.

FYI, they do make concealable nose rings of plastic for this exact purpose...maybe they have something similar for your ear? If you really feel attached to your nose piercing, I'd find the smallest stud possible and avoid anything glittery.

Again, just my thoughts, and I will acknowledge that I always err on the conservative side!

Ok, good point. I forgot about those little plastic nose studs. I will definitely look into it. I am definitely pro-erring on the more conservative side. Thanks!
 
so I'm still a ways out from having to go on interviews (hopefully sometime next year...), but I'm on a tight budget, so I'd have to figure out if I need to start saving up. I have a lot of business casual clothing (blouses, skirts, suit jackets), some suits that I wear once or twice a week, but I have one suit that I consider my "nice, special occasion" suit.

see it here: http://www.smartbargains.com/go.sb?...program=18080&isrw=4&prodid=1411672670&aid=74

I love the way it looks, but it is definitely best with a black cami/accessories....too dark/unconventional?
 
I love the way it looks, but it is definitely best with a black cami/accessories....too dark/unconventional?

Nope, that is good. Depending on your coloring, you might be able to get away with certain shades of light blue under it as well. Other variants on a dark shirt could be a dark purple or blue underneath (if you're looking for a change from black!)

I'd veer away from a strict cami top unless you are 100% sure you will never ever take your jacket off on campus.
 
what kind of bag is appropriate to carry to the interview?😕
 
what kind of bag is appropriate to carry to the interview?😕

I'm on my phone, otherwise I'd link you, but you can use the thread search function to read my opinions on this in an earlier post. Maybe others will chime in if they have different ideas.
 
So, I am a huge fan of high heels--when I go out I'll wear 4" or 5" heels because I love being taller. Obviously I won't go that high for interviews, but do you guys think 3" heels are too much? I'm in love with these shoes:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/michael...-pump/3220649?origin=category&resultback=2600

I probably wouldn't wear something like this for a tour, but bring flats to change into for walking around a lot. My other option would be to go for something like this, which seem a little more boring to me but would probably be fine for walking around in.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sofft-vitero-pump/3199125?origin=category&resultback=4152

Thoughts?
 
I'm on my phone, otherwise I'd link you, but you can use the thread search function to read my opinions on this in an earlier post. Maybe others will chime in if they have different ideas.

Nine West makes fantastic totes. I have a really nice Nine West bag that I use all the time. It's pretty large (big enough to fit my laptop) and black patent leather with some nice metallic accents that make it a little less plain. So you could fit a folder into it, and pretty much everything else you need, and you'd only have to carry one bag.

Something like this:

http://www.ninewest.com/Desi-Large-...270&prefn1=catalog-id&prefv1=ninewest-catalog

Or this:

http://www.ninewest.com/Glamorous-L...273&prefn1=catalog-id&prefv1=ninewest-catalog
 
I'm from Hawaii and don't really know about winter attire. I haven't gotten any interview invites yet, but I'm applying to a lot of cold places. What am I supposed to wear to the interview? What is the appropriate footwear then (I don't want my toes to freeze)? Do I wear pants and a jacket and a coat? What if it rains/snows?
 
Here's my opinion on bags:

You're going to hear a lot of differing opinions here, but your main options are a purse, tote/briefcase, or a zippered padfolio. Honestly, I think you'll be fine with any of them, but I'd recommend a tote over a briefcase.

If you go with a purse or tote (I define a tote as a bag that holds letter-sized notebooks or a laptop, and would not be carried as an everyday bag otherwise), make sure you've cleaned out the non-essentials so you don't have to dig through junk in your bag in your interview.

I prefer a tote and then carry a thin folio in it, but to each her own.

EDIT: To expound upon this opinion: in your interview day, they will most likely give you a packet of information. You should also have a packet of important documents such as your personal statement, AMCAS activities, etc. If you are holding a purse in one hand and a folio in the other, it is more difficult to shake hands with your interviewers as you enter/leave. If you can get away without a purse by just carrying a zippered folio, or if you're like me and have to have a bag, then if you carry a tote in which to put the packet, then it saves you the awkward hand switch / stuff adjustment phase. It's also one less thing to carry on tours. Silly reason? Maybe. But that's my thought process 🙂

(FYI, this is my tote -- in black, not red, and they did a horrible photoshop job re-coloring the picture on the front page...the "more photos" link is better) http://www.levenger.com/PAGETEMPLAT...Category=11-1001-1002|Level=2-3-4|pageid=6578

Regardless, the bag should match your shoes in color, and be leather, faux leather, or quality microfiber.

And on shoes:

There are formal, business formal dress rules. These rules say your shoes should be closed toe, closed heel (no sling black), non-stiletto, black leather pumps of 1-2 inches.

My personal opinion is that heel height is the least important of these factors. I believe the cut and material of your shoe is what makes it appropriate, not the heel height (under 4"...more is probably over the top). As a not especially tall female, I will never say some one shouldn't have that extra boost of height if they want it! Other people may differ here, but my observation seems to hold true across my profession. If I had to recommend the next rule to bend, I'd say change the no patent leather rule.

Do my co-workers wear patent to work? Yes. Do attendings wear sling backs to work? I'm sure they do. Does that make them business FORMAL? No. Now, most importantly...does it matter? Honestly, if you're wearing a black, fairly conservative-looking shoe, I doubt many people will look twice. We're not applying for jobs in fashion. All of these rules are really just guidelines to ensure that we're giving appropriate deference to the seriousness of the program to which we're applying.

My advice will always tend towards the strictly business formal guidelines, because I want to give advice that I'm confident people who follow it will not have to second guess their appearance for a second. No one has to follow it to a tee, and many of the other contributors here (LizzyM and GeekChick are great examples), will tell you where this advice differs from what they are accustomed to seeing on interview day.

TheMightySmiter, my "meeting shoe" is the 3.5" heel Calvin Klein Olive (check out Zappos). It's on the higher end of the heel spectrum, but because of the chunkier heel, it looks more tame than a stiletto of the same height. It's a gorgeous shoe in person, and so comfortable, that I can walk over a mile to lunch in it.

MasterK said:
I'm from Hawaii and don't really know about winter attire. I haven't gotten any interview invites yet, but I'm applying to a lot of cold places. What am I supposed to wear to the interview? What is the appropriate footwear then (I don't want my toes to freeze)? Do I wear pants and a jacket and a coat? What if it rains/snows?

MasterK, I'd definitely go for closed toed shoes with rubber soles. You can find solid dress pumps, flats, or boots that would meet this description. You wear your suit jacket under an dress overcoat or trenchcoat, depending on the weather. (I feel your pain, I'm from the South and had to trudge around Boston last winter.)

It also doesn't hurt to carry an umbrella, hairbrush, and some make up in your bag in case you have to do some repairs after rough travelling.
 
So, I am a huge fan of high heels--when I go out I'll wear 4" or 5" heels because I love being taller. Obviously I won't go that high for interviews, but do you guys think 3" heels are too much? I'm in love with these shoes:

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/michael...-pump/3220649?origin=category&resultback=2600

I probably wouldn't wear something like this for a tour, but bring flats to change into for walking around a lot. My other option would be to go for something like this, which seem a little more boring to me but would probably be fine for walking around in.

http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/sofft-vitero-pump/3199125?origin=category&resultback=4152

Thoughts?

I bought my shoes today, same style as the first one that you linked but mine was black without the gray. They are gorgeous!!!👍
 
Any suggestion for the ladies that are a bit "top heavy" (aka little waist, big "blue eyes")? 😉

I didn't want to resort to the standard black suit, but the one I found at Banana is substantially more flattering than any other style I have tried. It also happens that it only came in black.

Anyways, I would like to do a nice button up collared shirt underneath. However, it is very difficult to find shirts that don't end up being like a dress on me because I have to buy larger sizes to accommodate "the ladies."
 
I bought my shoes today, same style as the first one that you linked but mine was black without the gray. They are gorgeous!!!👍

Awesome! I love those shoes so much. 😀

Any suggestion for the ladies that are a bit "top heavy" (aka little waist, big "blue eyes")? 😉

I didn't want to resort to the standard black suit, but the one I found at Banana is substantially more flattering than any other style I have tried. It also happens that it only came in black.

Anyways, I would like to do a nice button up collared shirt underneath. However, it is very difficult to find shirts that don't end up being like a dress on me because I have to buy larger sizes to accommodate "the ladies."

I can't emphasize it enough...tailoring, tailoring, tailoring. I feel your pain--I am not the bustiest of girls but I'm far from flat-chested, and even I have huge problems finding button down shirts that fit. If they fit around the bust, they will be too big at the waist. I don't understand why they don't make women's shirts that fit actual women. 🙄 But any good tailor can fix this for you. Buy a size that fits you around the bust, and take it to an alterations place so they can take it in at the waist. It might cost you $15 or $20 and it's totally worth it to have a shirt that really fits.

And it's okay to have a black suit, if it fits you well and looks good on you! I would just suggest wearing a bright-colored shirt underneath and maybe some unique (but not distracting) accessories. You don't have to wear a button down shirt, either. Try a tank top or blouse under your shirt in a bright color with some embellishment and you'll stand out despite the black suit.
 
And it's okay to have a black suit, if it fits you well and looks good on you! I would just suggest wearing a bright-colored shirt underneath and maybe some unique (but not distracting) accessories. You don't have to wear a button down shirt, either. Try a tank top or blouse under your shirt in a bright color with some embellishment and you'll stand out despite the black suit.

Ditto this. It's pretty much exactly what I did. My suit was black and had fine pinstripes. I had wanted grey but when I was trying suits on I felt best in this one. I'm also well endowed up top and I gave up on the button down a long time ago; they never fit me right. I wore a silk-blend shell underneath my jacket in a bright purple/pink kind of color. The neckline was also high enough that I wasn't worried about flashing cleavage.
 
So what is the general consensus on gray suits? Yay or Nay?

I'm thinking of something like this (please let me know if the image does not show up):

gray-suit-237x300.jpg
 
One thing I haven't seen addressed at all (probably because it's not yet cold out): Some of us who live in hot climates and thus do not own anything in the realm of "winter coat" are going to really struggle come winter interviews up north. What's the best kind of coat to purchase that will still be professional? What do people do about shoes? I applied to a couple of places where snow is a definite possibility.
 
One thing I haven't seen addressed at all (probably because it's not yet cold out): Some of us who live in hot climates and thus do not own anything in the realm of "winter coat" are going to really struggle come winter interviews up north. What's the best kind of coat to purchase that will still be professional? What do people do about shoes? I applied to a couple of places where snow is a definite possibility.

Wool peacoat mid thigh length.
 
What is an appropriate slit length for skirts? I have a knee-length suit skirt with a 7-inch slit in the back. Here it is:http://www.whitehouseblackmarket.co...ork+Skirts&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=
Is this okay?

Also, here's the jacket I got to match (in black, not beige):http://www.whitehouseblackmarket.co...al+Suiting&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=
I think the pleats in the back make it look more feminine, but it's still professional. What do you think?

I haven't had much luck finding plain button-up shirts that fit me. Do you think something like this would be okay, as long as I don't take my blazer off? http://www.whitehouseblackmarket.co...lls++Camis&onSale=&colorFamily=&maxPg=1&size=
 
where's a good site to find suits where either you can pick the top/bottom sizes when you buy (it seems like overstock for example you just buy a size 10 suit set... ummmm... i might not have been blessed with such symmetry), or that sells the pieces separately but it's easy to see which pieces go with which (to make sure they are the same color/fabric/etc...)

i am not super fashionable so i'm a little worried about building my own here... i'd like to get things that go together but i prob need a larger size on bottom...
 
alternatively, i have a black skirt and green wool blazer (the kinda darkish/neutral green). the fabric type match isn't perfect but it's not like polyester and wool... so if i wore this, ladies, please tell me what color should go under that blazer?

i assume a cream color would be ok... something brighter might even be fine bc the black and green are already neutrally but i dunno what... i wear a hoody 24/7 so my radar is not tuned..

the green is like this-ish
http://blashionista.com/wp-content/...Black-Tie-White-Shirt-June-7-2011-500x375.jpg
http://ny-image2.etsy.com/il_170x135.208719850.jpg
http://www.marcchehab.org/frozenmist/tissue/TiZeta_greenWool.jpg

thanks for any direction 😳
 
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