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Women's Interview Clothing (thread #2)
Started by lol.psych
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They look professional and practical IMO. Not necessarily chunky, but they don't really "elongate the leg" as they would say on What Not to Wear. Is that show still on? I haven't been able to afford cable in forever.
OMG yes. and i watch it all the time.
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my shoes.
too flashy? sharp? i was torn between that pair and a more boring pair . . . and decided against boring.
then i bought a boring purse . . . came really close to getting a purple pocketbook that matched my blouse but couldnt pull the trigger lol
Definitely not too flashy. I think these shoes represent a balance between professionalism and stylishness, very appropriate. Are they comfortable?
my shoes.
too flashy? sharp? i was torn between that pair and a more boring pair . . . and decided against boring.
then i bought a boring purse . . . came really close to getting a purple pocketbook that matched my blouse but couldnt pull the trigger lol
Good compromise. Are the rest of you ladies carrying bags on the big day? I am still undecided, although it does give me an adequate excuse to buy a new one!
Definitely not too flashy. I think these shoes represent a balance between professionalism and stylishness, very appropriate. Are they comfortable?
haha . . . not as comfortable as the boring ones but not too bad. i am pretty tall so i had to get a short heel. that should help, i only struggle with real, tall heels.
Good compromise. Are the rest of you ladies carrying bags on the big day? I am still undecided, although it does give me an adequate excuse to buy a new one!
One day, if I ever get an interview, I will be carrying my purse. No way around it. I feel naked without it!

One day, if I ever get an interview, I will be carrying my purse. No way around it. I feel naked without it!![]()
Same here. I constantly feel like I forgot something and/or periodically have mini panic attacks thinking I lost it somewhere... I don't have an invite yet either, but we will! And damn it, we'll look good too!
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part of the reason i opted for bag over pocketbook was because i thought i would be more comfortable knowing i had backup stuff . . . extra stockings, maybe a toothbrush, whatever. if i got the pocketbook i could only carry money, chapstick and phone. which would probably be sufficient but i'd rather be overprepared than under.
Purses are perfect for stashing a pair of heels so you can wear flats during the tour and not torture your feet 😀
I so want to do that, and my bag is big enough to fit an extra pair of shoes, but the problem is I'm super short and my paints were tailored to just the right length assuming I'm wearing my heels (which are pretty high to make up for my lack of height. lol). If I wear flats or even slight heels, they'll probably be too long and drag on the floor. So I guess I'll just have to stick it out in the heels and suffer through it...I did buy some Dr. Scholls insoles though so hopefully that will help.
im debating between a small purse, leather folder, or nothing.. i probably wont do nothing but between the purse or leather folder, i have such a hard time finding the right purse in terms of simplicity do you guys think a leather folder would be good? i have to look for that too any ideas where i can find a simple professional one?! thanks 🙂
thanks notsur.. as far as professionalism is there a big difference bet a bag vs a folder?
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thanks notsur.. as far as professionalism is there a big difference bet a bag vs a folder?
I don't think so. Folders are typically made for business use so they're usually professional regardless. At the same time, there are many bags that are also made for professional use like business totes and laptop totes that also double as bags. They look professional and they're practical. I got a really nice Nine West one from Khols that really professional looking but also good for everything I need to hold. They had a big selection there from big business totes to smaller purses, to laptop bags. You might wanna check it out. 🙂
I don't think so. Folders are typically made for business use so they're usually professional regardless. At the same time, there are many bags that are also made for professional use like business totes and laptop totes that also double as bags. They look professional and they're practical. I got a really nice Nine West one from Khols that really professional looking but also good for everything I need to hold. They had a big selection there from big business totes to smaller purses, to laptop bags. You might wanna check it out. 🙂
Oh I'm no expert! I'm just a premed who hasn't even gone on her first interview! I've always thought big bags can "make" an outfit but I doubt it matters to an interviewer whether you take a bag or a folder as long as either one is big enough to cram everything in so that you're not walking around with a messy stack of papers. Now, if you ask me, Notsur, which one I think looks nicer, I say big bag. I've never liked the look of little bags or clutches. But that's totalllly personal and I doubt your interviewers will notice. Big bags also look more feminine if you care about that. I think that both the folder and the bag can look sharp.
thanks guys! i guess i cant really decide until i see some of them!! i gotta go shopping today.. i have the hardest time with purses but maybe ill have some luck on my bday 🙂
thanks guys! i guess i cant really decide until i see some of them!! i gotta go shopping today.. i have the hardest time with purses but maybe ill have some luck on my bday 🙂
Happy birthday! I'm sure birthday luck will kick in and you will find an amazing purse!
If you want a cheap one, I'm sure you can just go to Target for the leather folder. As far as a bag, I'm just bringing a big black tote. This one:
![]()
I like this tote!
I have this blouse from the limited that I was going to wear to my first interview..
http://www.thelimited.com/detail/ultra-pleated-blouse/4202043
would this be appropriate with a black cardigan (3/4 sleeve, kind of short, almost upto the waistline on the blouse), black pants, and MAYBE a very thin red belt...
would this be too much?? I was trying to find something other than a button up shirt to wear under my jacket and really liked this so got this instead.. i think the black cardigan sort of accentuates the ruffles..and i'm 5'2'' asian..just to throw that out there lol
http://www.thelimited.com/detail/ultra-pleated-blouse/4202043
would this be appropriate with a black cardigan (3/4 sleeve, kind of short, almost upto the waistline on the blouse), black pants, and MAYBE a very thin red belt...
would this be too much?? I was trying to find something other than a button up shirt to wear under my jacket and really liked this so got this instead.. i think the black cardigan sort of accentuates the ruffles..and i'm 5'2'' asian..just to throw that out there lol
I have this blouse from the limited that I was going to wear to my first interview..
http://www.thelimited.com/detail/ultra-pleated-blouse/4202043
would this be appropriate with a black cardigan (3/4 sleeve, kind of short, almost upto the waistline on the blouse), black pants, and MAYBE a very thin red belt...
would this be too much?? I was trying to find something other than a button up shirt to wear under my jacket and really liked this so got this instead.. i think the black cardigan sort of accentuates the ruffles..and i'm 5'2'' asian..just to throw that out there lol
AhHHH I love that blouse!
But I think it might be too much for an interview? I feel that at interviews, you should dress more on the plain and dull side?
Then again what do I know. The reason I am coming to this thread is to get an idea what to wear.
See what other people think. I do love that blouse, but I wouldn't wear it to a med school interview.
Then again you are wearing it under a cardigan. It might work actually.
I doubt what I said was of much help...
Cute shirt! But I would wear it under a suit because at my last interview, only one person wasn't wearing a suit and she kind of stood out. Just IMHO 😉I have this blouse from the limited that I was going to wear to my first interview..
http://www.thelimited.com/detail/ultra-pleated-blouse/4202043
would this be appropriate with a black cardigan (3/4 sleeve, kind of short, almost upto the waistline on the blouse), black pants, and MAYBE a very thin red belt...
would this be too much?? I was trying to find something other than a button up shirt to wear under my jacket and really liked this so got this instead.. i think the black cardigan sort of accentuates the ruffles..and i'm 5'2'' asian..just to throw that out there lol
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AhHHH I love that blouse!
But I think it might be too much for an interview? I feel that at interviews, you should dress more on the plain and dull side?
Then again what do I know. The reason I am coming to this thread is to get an idea what to wear.
See what other people think. I do love that blouse, but I wouldn't wear it to a med school interview.
Then again you are wearing it under a cardigan. It might work actually.
I doubt what I said was of much help...
I agree...I guess I should go safe than sorry. Thank you though! I really needed that little nudge towards the right decision🙂
Cute shirt! But I would wear it under a suit because at my last interview, only one person wasn't wearing a suit and she kind of stood out. Just IMHO 😉
Thanks!! Yeah I was thinking about that too...I tried it on under my jacket and I actually liked it except the collar looked funny with the jacket. I think I might just go with a short sleeved button down shirt...
Cute shirt! But I would wear it under a suit because at my last interview, only one person wasn't wearing a suit and she kind of stood out. Just IMHO 😉
I agree! I love the shirt, but I think it would be best for a medical school interview to put this shirt with a suit. From what I can gather, a cardigan is not formal enough for the interview.
I agree! I love the shirt, but I think it would be best for a medical school interview to put this shirt with a suit. From what I can gather, a cardigan is not formal enough for the interview.
Yep. This. You should totally keep it and wear it out though! It's cute!
Thanks guys!! Okay. I couldn't resist..so I tried it on under a suit with pants(and I did wear a cami...). Obviously it won't work lol. I'm going shopping for a shell tomorrow. But I'm keeping this for other occasions as suggested🙂 Wish me luck!!!
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Happy birthday! I'm sure birthday luck will kick in and you will find an amazing purse!
Thanks Istone =) i didnt get an interview purse yet! but i got a really cute purse as a bday gift 🙂
im thinking of using a purse i already have but im not sure how professional it is.. its kinda short, leather, and about 5 by 10 inch or something like that.. ill try to take a picture of it when i get home! 😉
Thanks guys!! Okay. I couldn't resist..so I tried it on under a suit with pants(and I did wear a cami...). Obviously it won't work lol. I'm going shopping for a shell tomorrow. But I'm keeping this for other occasions as suggested🙂 Wish me luck!!!
Sharp suit! Good luck finding a blouse! The other one is definitely a keeper, but I agree, it does look a little awkward with the jacket.
First and foremost, I love this thread!!!! It has been so insightful. IThroughout reading it I have been vascillating between skirt and pants..at this point I have decided skirt. Anyways, I bought this adorable cream (off white) mini blazer from Forever 21. The only colors I have seen mentioned are black, gray and brown. How about white?! Is it appropriate "after labor day"?
Plus I am thinking of wearing a black high waist skirt, which has a large bow that you tie, and a black camisole or bodysuit black shirt for a smooth look. What do you think?

Plus I am thinking of wearing a black high waist skirt, which has a large bow that you tie, and a black camisole or bodysuit black shirt for a smooth look. What do you think?

FYI: My interview is early November in a cold state :-(
FYI: My interview is early November in a cold state :-(
i would say no-go (as someone who grew up in a "cold state" and is quite familiar with the conservative fashion sense that often goes along with this).
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really?! I grew up in Michigan (not fashionable) and went to college in Boston (very fashionable) and thought this outfit would be perfect. Although the interview is in a midwestern state...
What part is bad?
1. The jacket?-not formal enough
2. The jacket coupled with the high waist skirt with a bow?
Because if the high waist skirt (with bow) and the jacket look to...fashionable perhaps a more-
-conservative skirt with the jacket or
dress pants with the jacket.
Thanks in advance for the advice 🙂
What part is bad?
1. The jacket?-not formal enough
2. The jacket coupled with the high waist skirt with a bow?
Because if the high waist skirt (with bow) and the jacket look to...fashionable perhaps a more-
-conservative skirt with the jacket or
dress pants with the jacket.
Thanks in advance for the advice 🙂
as you can see, i love the jacket and hate to give it up :-(. Its formal but a unique type of formal. It reminds me of top Nancy Pelosi, Michelle Obama would wear--conservative but stylish.
i would say no-go (as someone who grew up in a "cold state" and is quite familiar with the conservative fashion sense that often goes along with this).
I went to your mdap and noticed you were from Mass! Anyways, congrats on all your interview invites. You put "hold" next to GW--that's my current status there too. Do you have any idea as to what the "hold" means. It surpises me that you are on hold because of all the great luck you've been having w/other schools. Perhaps it confirms the sentiment that this process is random?
as you can see, i love the jacket and hate to give it up :-(. Its formal but a unique type of formal. It reminds me of top Nancy Pelosi, Michelle Obama would wear--conservative but stylish.
If the jacket is wool, I'd say it sounds fine with a black skirt or black pants. I think it looks a little younger, maybe more like Sarah Palin, than the women you mentioned.
Dw2158, What's wrong with a suit that uses a vest instead of a jacket? It still looks good (from what I've seen in the catalogues) and it breaks the monotony of the traditional three piece suit. I personally like it, although I haven't really found any that fit me so far.
If the jacket is wool, I'd say it sounds fine with a black skirt or black pants. I think it looks a little younger, maybe more like Sarah Palin, than the women you mentioned.
Actually, here is a pic of Pelosi with a collar that is similar and in a color that is usually not deemed as conservative.
http://6doi.net/images/nancy-pelosi.jpg
Either way, I appreciate your perspective 😛
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Regardless, I get to engage in "guilt free shopping" this holiday weekend. Just received a JCP coupon email. Perhaps, I will find something completely different, I still have a couple of weeks to go!
really?! I grew up in Michigan (not fashionable) and went to college in Boston (very fashionable) and thought this outfit would be perfect. Although the interview is in a midwestern state...
What part is bad?
1. The jacket?-not formal enough
2. The jacket coupled with the high waist skirt with a bow?
Because if the high waist skirt (with bow) and the jacket look to...fashionable perhaps a more-
-conservative skirt with the jacket or
dress pants with the jacket.
Thanks in advance for the advice 🙂
the bow on the skirt made me think twice. where is the bow? i think things like that are very pretty but a bit too whimsical and fashionista-ish for interviews. there's a way to look fashionable while wearing something slightly more traditional (which i like to think is what i've been doing 😳).
also, i think you would certainly stand out in a white blazer with a black skirt, and you have to decide if that's the type of standing out you want to do. i was talked out of wearing my red shoes in this thread, so... yeah.
anyway, not gonna lie... if you hadn't mentioned forever 21 i probably would have had a slightly different opinion about the blazer. i hate that store.

I went to your mdap and noticed you were from Mass! Anyways, congrats on all your interview invites. You put "hold" next to GW--that's my current status there too. Do you have any idea as to what the "hold" means. It surpises me that you are on hold because of all the great luck you've been having w/other schools. Perhaps it confirms the sentiment that this process is random?
i think GWU sensed that i was using them as a safety. alas. (also, yes, this process is random.)
Dw2158, What's wrong with a suit that uses a vest instead of a jacket? It still looks good (from what I've seen in the catalogues) and it breaks the monotony of the traditional three piece suit. I personally like it, although I haven't really found any that fit me so far.
my worry about that would be 2 fold: first, that it would look like you had just taken the jacket off and weren't 100% put together, and second... it's just not my personal taste.
Dw2158, What's wrong with a suit that uses a vest instead of a jacket? It still looks good (from what I've seen in the catalogues) and it breaks the monotony of the traditional three piece suit. I personally like it, although I haven't really found any that fit me so far.
I know you asked dw this, but I say that using just the vest instead of the jacket looks like your outfit is incomplete. As much as I love this look, the image it will present is unpolished, like something is missing. That's part of it's appeal in fashion, and it is totally appropriate for the workforce. However, for an interview, you want to be and to look prepared and polished in every aspect, even your outfit.
I know you asked dw this, but I say that using just the vest instead of the jacket looks like your outfit is incomplete. As much as I love this look, the image it will present is unpolished, like something is missing. That's part of it's appeal in fashion, and it is totally appropriate for the workforce. However, for an interview, you want to be and to look prepared and polished in every aspect, even your outfit.
Thanks for the input. I notice also that you were complete at most places about mid-late september. That's the case with me too! Are you nervous about being a little late? Being on SDN had totally freaked me out. I swear this place is crazy.
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