Tips to Dress for Success

Sources say that up to 55% of another person’s perception of you is based on how you look, so make the right impression at your interview. Although dressing and grooming appropriately may not get you the job, it will give you a competitive edge and help to make a positive first impression. No matter what, always dress professionally for an interview!

General Tips Checklist

• Wear professional and conservative clothing.
• Ensure that clothing is clean, pressed and not too tight.
• Wear conservative shoes that are clean and polished.
• Choose accessories that complement your clothing rather than distract from it.
• Remove facial and body piercings.
• Cover visible tattoos to avoid distraction.
• Keep fragrances and jewelry minimal.
• Make sure your hair is clean and conservative in color and style.

Tips for Women

• Acceptable dress includes a suit (skirt or slacks) or conservatively tailored dress.
• Skirts and dresses should be knee-length or longer.
• Avoid blouses or sweaters that are transparent, tight fitting, have low necklines, revealing waistlines or details that detract from your face. Shoulders should be covered.
• Perfume should never be strong. A fragrance can cause an allergic reaction or offend the interviewer. When in doubt, do not wear perfume.
• Apply natural-looking makeup and clear nail polish. This keeps the focus on the interview.
• Do not carry a purse with a briefcase. Choose one or the other.
• Wear flat shoes or low pumps in colors that avoid making your feet a focal point. Be sure your shoes are clean and polished. Avoid open-toed shoes since they are often associated with social agendas.
• Avoid dangling earrings, and wear no more than one ring per hand and a dress watch.

 Tips for Men

• Wear a matching suit in navy, black or gray (pinstripe or solid), or a navy blazer and gray dress slacks.
• Select a white or a light blue dress shirt that contrasts with the jacket and/or tie. Typically, arms should be covered to the wrist.
• Ties should be made of silk or a silk-like fabric. The tie should coordinate with your jacket and pants, but it should contrast with the color of your shirt.
• Socks should be calf-length or above the calf. Choose colors such as dark blue, black or gray.
• Select lace-up (not slip-on) dress shoes. The color should be dark or should blend with your pants.
• Select a leather belt that visually blends with or matches your shoes.
• Make sure your haircut is short and you are clean shaven.
• Minimize jewelry. Avoid a necklace. Wear no more than one ring per hand and a dress watch.
• A full-length coat can be worn over your suit, but avoid casual coats.

Cologne should never be strong. A fragrance can cause an allergic reaction or offend the interviewer(s). When in doubt, do not wear cologne.