Women's Interview Clothing (thread #2)

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Tatastrophy said:
hmmm its really cute but I'm a bit concerned it's too trendy, rather than professional. Have you already gone to interviews in it?
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I agree. It may be a little too trendy... But I think it may depend on the fabric it's made out of though. It is very trendy, but it might could work. What's it made out of?
 
lstone13 said:
I agree. It may be a little too trendy... But I think it may depend on the fabric it's made out of though. It is very trendy, but it might could work. What's it made out of?
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Yeah, that´s what I thought initially. I am not sure of the fabric. But I am guessing one of those polyester mixed with spandex.

I am considering buying it for my first interview. I think I will just go the safe route...thanks guys!
 
Tatastrophy said:
did you not see my picture...I think I look exactly like a girl that would describe something as "gorge"
mind you I can also speak proper English-Comp Lit is my minor. So no hatin!
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hard to determine because all the "sweetness pouring from your face" made it difficult to think.
 
I just want to tell everyone that no matter what they tell you, DO NOT LET THEM GATE CHECK YOUR CARRY-ON IF YOU HAVE YOUR INTERVIEW CLOTHES IN THEM.
They overbooked my flight and made half of us gate-check our carry-ons because there was "no room". When I got to my final destination at 11pm I found out they had LOST MY BAG. They had no idea where it was. I had to buy underwear, a dress shirt, suit, socks, shoes, make-up, etc at 10am for my noon interview day. I literally had nothing and had to find everything in an hour.
I hope no one ever has to go through what I did on Thursday night/Friday morning.
 
sassilysweet said:
I just want to tell everyone that no matter what they tell you, DO NOT LET THEM GATE CHECK YOUR CARRY-ON IF YOU HAVE YOUR INTERVIEW CLOTHES IN THEM.
They overbooked my flight and made half of us gate-check our carry-ons because there was "no room". When I got to my final destination at 11pm I found out they had LOST MY BAG. They had no idea where it was. I had to buy underwear, a dress shirt, suit, socks, shoes, make-up, etc at 10am for my noon interview day. I literally had nothing and had to find everything in an hour.
I hope no one ever has to go through what I did on Thursday night/Friday morning.
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That is AWFUL. I can't even imagine how stressed you must have been. You should have gotten the airport to cover those expenses for you.
 
So, I am nowhere near interviews yet, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Sorry if this has been covered before but the thread is so long, haha. What's the best way to wear your hair during an interview? I almost always wear my hair down (straightened and neat) because I think it looks best that way, but I'm aware that this isn't the most professional look. And I wouldn't want to be awkwardly pushing my hair out of my face during an interview. I don't like the look of a normal ponytail, though, I think it might appear too casual. Anyone have any advice? Is it best to do a neat bun? Or maybe a sleeker ponytail tied low?
 
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TheMightySmiter said:
So, I am nowhere near interviews yet, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Sorry if this has been covered before but the thread is so long, haha. What's the best way to wear your hair during an interview? I almost always wear my hair down (straightened and neat) because I think it looks best that way, but I'm aware that this isn't the most professional look. And I wouldn't want to be awkwardly pushing my hair out of my face during an interview. I don't like the look of a normal ponytail, though, I think it might appear too casual. Anyone have any advice? Is it best to do a neat bun? Or maybe a sleeker ponytail tied low?
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I have long hair and wear it straightened and down. I've seen several other women at interviews doing the same, and I don't think it's an issue. Occasionally I might wear it half up, but I never put it in a bun because my hair just won't hold that way. I think it's better to go with what you're comfortable with so you don't have to worry about what your hair looks like during interview day. As long as your hair is clean, it doesn't fall in or cover your face, and you're not constantly trying to sweep it aside or unconsciously playing with it while you're talking, I think it's fine.
 
TheMightySmiter said:
So, I am nowhere near interviews yet, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Sorry if this has been covered before but the thread is so long, haha. What's the best way to wear your hair during an interview? I almost always wear my hair down (straightened and neat) because I think it looks best that way, but I'm aware that this isn't the most professional look. And I wouldn't want to be awkwardly pushing my hair out of my face during an interview. I don't like the look of a normal ponytail, though, I think it might appear too casual. Anyone have any advice? Is it best to do a neat bun? Or maybe a sleeker ponytail tied low?
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1st) do what ever makes you feel most comfy and still looks good. Nothing is worse than fretting about something silly like your hair when you should be concerned with what you are saying.

2nd) if your hair is in your face or you'll play with it, pull or pin part or all of it back. Better to do a sleek and simple low ponytail than to have some crazy prom hair or something.

I saw some girls at my interview who had nice and neatly styled hair (and therefore looked professional) and a couple girls who looked like they put minimal effort into their hair aka messy ponytails, etc. it wasn't the best look
 
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TheMightySmiter said:
So, I am nowhere near interviews yet, but I thought I'd ask anyway. Sorry if this has been covered before but the thread is so long, haha. What's the best way to wear your hair during an interview? I almost always wear my hair down (straightened and neat) because I think it looks best that way, but I'm aware that this isn't the most professional look. And I wouldn't want to be awkwardly pushing my hair out of my face during an interview. I don't like the look of a normal ponytail, though, I think it might appear too casual. Anyone have any advice? Is it best to do a neat bun? Or maybe a sleeker ponytail tied low?
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Wearing your hair down is fine, but make sure it is neat and out of your face. Don't be afraid to put a little hair spray in there to make sure hair doesn't fall in your face. Also, if you have a tendency to play with your hair or if it falls into your face easily, pull it half-back or something because you don't want your hair to distract the interviewer from you and what you have to say.
 
Thanks, everyone! I do have a tendency to play with my hair, especially when I'm nervous (can't see that happening in an interview or anything, lol) so I think the best plan is to put it half-back like a couple people have suggested.
 
what about tweed? i was thinking that a nice subtle grey/black/white tweed jacket over a black skirt could look really nice and classy...i kind of want to step out of the pure black suit category.

any thoughts on this?
 
dukejen04 said:
what about tweed? i was thinking that a nice subtle grey/black/white tweed jacket over a black skirt could look really nice and classy...i kind of want to step out of the pure black suit category.

any thoughts on this?
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There was a girl at one of my interviews with a brownish and tan tweed pantsuit, with a cream blouse w/ ruffles underneath. She looked good. I don't know about mixing and matching with a plain skirt, but the picture I have in my head looks good.
 
While I do not know this from personal experience, I have been told by several females at different interview locations that a thong is one of the best way to remain at ease during interviews. I'm still attempting to grasp the mechanism by which this works, but perhaps some members of the fairer race would be so kind as to enlighten us. It may be similar to a frequent men's situation, when boxer shorts ride up throughout the day and make life somewhat uncomfortable. Just a thought, though...
 
dukejen04 said:
what about tweed? i was thinking that a nice subtle grey/black/white tweed jacket over a black skirt could look really nice and classy...i kind of want to step out of the pure black suit category.

any thoughts on this?
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my (grey/black/white) suit was sort of tweedy-- i love that texture 🙂 but i wouldn't suggest going with a non-matching skirt and jacket. i really think it should be a suit. JMO.

the freest man said:
While I do not know this from personal experience, I have been told by several females at different interview locations that a thong is one of the best way to remain at ease during interviews. I'm still attempting to grasp the mechanism by which this works, but perhaps some members of the fairer race would be so kind as to enlighten us. It may be similar to a frequent men's situation, when boxer shorts ride up throughout the day and make life somewhat uncomfortable. Just a thought, though...
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🙄 if you're looking to be turned on by someone talking about thongs... get off SDN, for the love of god.
 
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but i wouldn't suggest going with a non-matching skirt and jacket. i really think it should be a suit. JMO.
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I think a non-matching jacket with pants or skirt is just fine. In fact, last week the fashion columnist for the Wall Street Journal recommended such a combination for a Human Resources director starting a new job. Sarah Palin pulled off that look very well last year on the campaign trail, too. (I recall a red jacket and black pants).
 
LizzyM said:
I think a non-matching jacket with pants or skirt is just fine. In fact, last week the fashion columnist for the Wall Street Journal recommended such a combination for a Human Resources director starting a new job. Sarah Palin pulled off that look very well last year on the campaign trail, too. (I recall a red jacket and black pants).
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IMO, interview =/= starting a new job. also, i got talked out of wearing some really pretty red shoes with my suit in this thread. so i feel like erring on the more conservative side is considered to be better?
 
Red shoes are a different deal than a mixed top & bottom. I interviewed someone who wore a mixed set earlier this season and I didn't even notice until I saw her later in the day. It looked pulled together and polished although it was very non-traditional.... and she got good marks (and no notes about her clothing) by everyone who has a say in the candiates who come for interview.
 
dukejen04 said:
what about tweed? i was thinking that a nice subtle grey/black/white tweed jacket over a black skirt could look really nice and classy...i kind of want to step out of the pure black suit category.

any thoughts on this?
Click to expand...

I think it would be fine so long as the fabric materials match or at least flow together. I think it would be odd to have a wool tweed coat with something else for the skirt.
 
lstone13 said:
That is AWFUL. I can't even imagine how stressed you must have been. You should have gotten the airport to cover those expenses for you.
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Thanks. Yeah, I was a complete wreck that night. That morning htough I was on a mission and more angry than anything else.
I am still trying to find the correct number for the correct airline dept, but yes I am going to try to get them to pay for it all (or a free flight voucher).
 
i wish i could wear ruffles and things like that, but i think my face is loud enough (very sharp, dark features) and i should keep clothing simple.
i'm thinkin of standing out by wearing a multi-color striped button-up collar shirt.

is it ok to just keep the jacket unbuttoned the entire time? i feel more comfortable that way.


of course, i don't have any interviews yet, lol.. just wasting time on this thread. i'm hoping to just wear my old suit from mock trial performances.
 
musafirah said:
i wish i could wear ruffles and things like that, but i think my face is loud enough (very sharp, dark features) and i should keep clothing simple.
i'm thinkin of standing out by wearing a multi-color striped button-up collar shirt.

is it ok to just keep the jacket unbuttoned the entire time? i feel more comfortable that way.


of course, i don't have any interviews yet, lol.. just wasting time on this thread. i'm hoping to just wear my old suit from mock trial performances.
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Just make sure the multi-color stripped shirt doesn't clash with your suit.

During my actual interviews, I kept my jacket buttoned up. If I felt uncomfortable, I would unbutton it during the lunch and tour. Personally, IMO I would at least keep it buttoned during the interviews.

Good luck!
 
Sillyshoes said:
Just make sure the multi-color stripped shirt doesn't clash with your suit.

During my actual interviews, I kept my jacket buttoned up. If I felt uncomfortable, I would unbutton it during the lunch and tour. Personally, IMO I would at least keep it buttoned during the interviews.

Good luck!
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Uh oh, I kept my jacket unbuttoned the whole time. It just looks so much better that way. Oh well, maybe next time I'll button it for when I walk into my interview room, then unbutton.
 
Rach83 said:
Uh oh, I kept my jacket unbuttoned the whole time. It just looks so much better that way. Oh well, maybe next time I'll button it for when I walk into my interview room, then unbutton.
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I am sure it is fine.
For my suit, I felt that if it was unbutton, it looked like I had two side flaps...
I think it just depends on the suit. Mine only has 2 or 3 buttons.
 
Rach83 said:
Uh oh, I kept my jacket unbuttoned the whole time. It just looks so much better that way. Oh well, maybe next time I'll button it for when I walk into my interview room, then unbutton.
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it's actually 100% fine etiquette to unbutton your jacket when you're seated.
 
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dw2158 said:
it's actually 100% fine etiquette to unbutton your jacket when you're seated.
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when I was buying my interview suit, I asked the amazing J. Crew employee who was helping me what the proper etiquette re: the three-button jacket was. he was awesome - reminded me of Clinton from What Not to Wear - so I took his advice as the ultimate say on the matter:

-when standing/walking, the top two buttons should be buttoned and the bottom button undone (I've been wearing suits for work for years and never knew this about the bottom button...)

-when seated, unbutton the jacket entirely

This applies to three-button jackets. I am unaware of the etiquette for one- or two-button jackets (though it's probably similar) because I hate them and never buy them!
 
I'm planning to wear a skirt for my interview, but I need some help with the top. Do you have to wear a suit jacket on top? Or is a nice sweater + skirt + heels okay?
 
lietsayri said:
I'm planning to wear a skirt for my interview, but I need some help with the top. Do you have to wear a suit jacket on top? Or is a nice sweater + skirt + heels okay?
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>99% of applicants wear a suit jacket. I saw one applicant this year in a belted sweater over a blouse. If you want to stand out in the crowd, and aren't afraid to be unconventional and a maverick, wear a sweater/jacket. If you'd rather be conventional and fit in with the crowd, find a suit jacket.
 
My first interview is this Friday. I am planning on going shopping tomorrow for my interview outfit. What is the consensus on what to wear?

My mother thinks I should wear a black dress that covers my arms and goes past my knees. She doesn't think I look very good with a jacket because it makes my shoulders bigger. I do like dresses and skirts. She said no to a white blouse and thinks I should go all black because it is the most flattering color.

I plan on wearing flat dress shoes.

Shopping is such a challenge for me. I am plus size with wide feet. 🙂

The state I live in has beautiful weather this time of year. Just unpredictable. In general it is cool in the mornings (60s) and warm in the afternoon (upper 70s-80).

What color hose is standard? I feel so out of touch.

Thank you and good luck!
 
kia ora said:
when I was buying my interview suit, I asked the amazing J. Crew employee who was helping me what the proper etiquette re: the three-button jacket was. he was awesome - reminded me of Clinton from What Not to Wear - so I took his advice as the ultimate say on the matter:

-when standing/walking, the top two buttons should be buttoned and the bottom button undone (I've been wearing suits for work for years and never knew this about the bottom button...)

-when seated, unbutton the jacket entirely

This applies to three-button jackets. I am unaware of the etiquette for one- or two-button jackets (though it's probably similar) because I hate them and never buy them!
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haha yay for clinton and stacey... love that show.

and yes, the deal with three button jackets is this: top button, middle button, bottom button = sometimes, always, never. (this is really a rule for dudes' suits, but it's generally good for women too.)

TexasPrincess said:
My first interview is this Friday. I am planning on going shopping tomorrow for my interview outfit. What is the consensus on what to wear?

My mother thinks I should wear a black dress that covers my arms and goes past my knees. She doesn't think I look very good with a jacket because it makes my shoulders bigger. I do like dresses and skirts. She said no to a white blouse and thinks I should go all black because it is the most flattering color.

I plan on wearing flat dress shoes.

Shopping is such a challenge for me. I am plus size with wide feet. 🙂

The state I live in has beautiful weather this time of year. Just unpredictable. In general it is cool in the mornings (60s) and warm in the afternoon (upper 70s-80).

What color hose is standard? I feel so out of touch.

Thank you and good luck!
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people on this thread might disagree with me, but i'd say wear a suit (try to find the most flattering jacket you can). nude hose. flat shoes are okay as long as they're *nice* and not like the crappy ballet flats i wear to work everyday 😛
 
Hey ladies, so I just bought this bag a bit earlier today for my interview and I wanted to make sure that it would be okay to take with me! I wanted to get one big enough for me to put my folder/personal statement/secondary/etc. and extra hose, umbrella, change of shoes (possibly), and whatever else, but is this too big/professional enough?

http://www4.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?DeptID=50434&CatID=66376&GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=16d6452&attrtype=&attrvalue=&CMID=50434|66371&Fltr=&Srt=&QL=F&IND=27&cmVirtualCat=&CmCatId=50434|66371|66376

I couldn't really find any sizes that were in the middle. They were either tiny or around this size or not even close to professional looking. Where did everyone else get their bags from? Maybe I just have bad luck 🙁 haha

Thanks!
 
saw a girl interviewing at BU today... poofy skirt halfway up her thighs. yikes.
 
amberisma said:
Hey ladies, so I just bought this bag a bit earlier today for my interview and I wanted to make sure that it would be okay to take with me! I wanted to get one big enough for me to put my folder/personal statement/secondary/etc. and extra hose, umbrella, change of shoes (possibly), and whatever else, but is this too big/professional enough?

http://www4.jcpenney.com/jcp/X6.aspx?DeptID=50434&CatID=66376&GrpTyp=PRD&ItemID=16d6452&attrtype=&attrvalue=&CMID=50434|66371&Fltr=&Srt=&QL=F&IND=27&cmVirtualCat=&CmCatId=50434|66371|66376

I couldn't really find any sizes that were in the middle. They were either tiny or around this size or not even close to professional looking. Where did everyone else get their bags from? Maybe I just have bad luck 🙁 haha

Thanks!
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That looks nice. I got mine from a silent auction, so I have not a clue where it is really from.
 
.
 
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kia ora said:
when I was buying my interview suit, I asked the amazing J. Crew employee who was helping me what the proper etiquette re: the three-button jacket was. he was awesome - reminded me of Clinton from What Not to Wear - so I took his advice as the ultimate say on the matter:

-when standing/walking, the top two buttons should be buttoned and the bottom button undone (I've been wearing suits for work for years and never knew this about the bottom button...)

-when seated, unbutton the jacket entirely

This applies to three-button jackets. I am unaware of the etiquette for one- or two-button jackets (though it's probably similar) because I hate them and never buy them!
Click to expand...

Oops, I had bad etiquette at two of my interviews.
I was too busy scrambling around looking for my interviewers' rooms to think of buttoning and unbuttoning.

bleargh said:
saw a girl interviewing at BU today... poofy skirt halfway up her thighs. yikes.
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😱
I have yet to see someone with an article of clothing that makes them stand out like that.
 
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Thought I'd share ma supa cool suit

forgive the crappy image quality...my shirt is white not yellow lol
 
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Tatastrophy said:
Thought I'd share ma supa cool suit
16552_616144424497_2613109_35841388_887424_n.jpg

forgive the crappy image quality...my shirt is white not yellow lol
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i totally saw someone wearing that EXACT same outfit at tulane this week 😉
 
Okay ladies, quick question. Since the winter months are rolling in, is it appropriate to wear a turtleneck with a skirt suit? And if so, is there a particular fabric that would look best?
 
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