Going to a job interview can be a nerve-wracking experience, as anyone who has ever had to find a job can attest. Apart from knowing what to say, one of the most stressful parts of the interview is finding the right thing to wear for it.
One way to make things easier is to research about the company’s dress code before the job interview. You can also take note of the industry that you’re hoping to become a part of to come up with ideas on what to wear to the big day.
Here are some tips for ladies on what to wear to a job interview based on dress codes.
Business Professional
The business professional dress code works for those who are interviewing for a corporate job such as finance, marketing, business, law, accounting, and the like. This means that your attire should be more formal and conservative.
Dark pant suits or skirt suits in black, charcoal, or navy will work for the interview. Suits with thin pinstripes in dark colors will also do. Keep accessories to a minimum and go for a classic silver or gold watch, stud or drop earrings, black pumps, and a structured handbag.
Hair and makeup should be clean and understated—think the no-makeup look. Hair should be neat and pulled back from one’s face. The skin should be matte and eye makeup should be minimal. Choose pale or nude colors for the lips. Nails should be short and well-manicured.
Business Casual
This dress code is appropriate for those who want to land a job in real estate, public relations, and television. Business casual attire is more relaxed, and you get to play around with your interview outfits a bit more.
Separates work well for this dress code, so opt for slacks or a skirt teamed with a blouse under a cardigan or a jacket. A structured dress under a blazer will work as well.
You can wear your hair down for the interview, but ease up on the curling iron. For makeup, you can still go with a matte foundation and minimal eye makeup, but amp your lip color up a notch with pinks, corals, or a classic red lip.
Fashion-forward
Those who aspire to work in beauty, fashion and advertising could get away with trendy but still appropriate looks for interviews. For instance, one could pair a classic sheath dress with colorful pumps and a matching handbag.
A statement necklace or a few bracelets tie the whole look together and make one look more fashion-forward. Well-groomed brows, fresh matte skin, and a bright lip would work with this type of interview attire.
For more, check out Jobs & Hire’s report on the 2017 Golden Globes makeup looks that would work for the office.
