What to Wear to an Interview

Blouse: Express | Pants: Target | Blazer: Express | Heels: DSW | Bag: Nordstrom | Earrings: Kendra Scott

Over the past three years I have interviewed with a few different types of companies such as an Insurance Firm, Dental Office, and Research Facility.  Despite the different industries, I wore [almost] the same outfit to each interview.  That specific outfit seems to work too!

Here’s five steps to a fail-proof interview outfit:

1. Bottoms: Slim fit black slacks. I’ve had a pair in my closet since I took my first steps into the professional world and they are still my favorite pants to wear to work.  I feel most confident in these.  They’re not too tight, so they give me room to breathe (hello interview anxiety), and the slim fit is very flattering.  If a slim fit isn’t your favorite, don’t wear it!  My main point is to wear slacks that you feel most confident in.
2. Top: To this interview I wore a light pink Portofino from Express. I have worn this same top to my last two interviews and it hasn’t let me down yet.  I like to add a touch of color to my outfit to show my personality.  A plain white collared shirt is so not me!  When picking out a top, make sure it is not too low cut.  You’re trying to land a job here, not a second date.
3. Shoes: I chose a pair of heels that aren’t too high. You want to be able to walk into that interview room confident, with your shoulders back and your head held high.  The last thing you want is to look like a newborn deer struggling for balance.
4. Perfume: DON’T put too much perfume on before the interview. Sure, you want to smell nice, but you don’t want to slap your interviewer in the face with Tory Burch’s latest scent.
5. Hair: Avoid having your hair hang in your face. Consider pulling it back into a half-up half-down style.  I also go for a relaxed curl or even straight look…no need for pageant curls.  You want your personality and hire ability to be the center of attention!

Moral of the post: wear what you feel confident in.  Don’t let your outfit get in the way of you shining bright!  What do you feel best in when walking into an interview or big presentation?

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