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dressing for an interview.
Professional Women Clothing: The professional look for women is generally considered a dark suit in navy, black or gray either with a skirt or pants, The blouse may be collared, however it is wise to go with a blouse that doesn't have a button front. Instead choose a "shell' which is sleeveless or cap sleeve. If you can, purchase shells in multiple colors in case you need to be ready to interview again the next day. Remember that this is not the time to advertise anything but your face and a winning personality, leave sexy, sheer, low-cut or tight blouses on the rack.
Shoes should be leather or leather look pumps. Check for marring or nails coming through the heal, take them to a shoe repair if necessary a week before the interview. Shoes should have 1-2" heels, stilettos (3-4 inch heels), strappy sandals, open toes, slingbacks or platforms should be saved for date night. You need to look professional and still give the subtle impression that you understand you will be on your feet all day. Hosiery should be worn in all states aside from Florida, Louisiana, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and Southern California where temperatures are above 85 for most of the year. Hosiery should be skin tone or darker.
No tattoos should be visible, even if you have seen people at the school with tattoos.
It should go without saying but there are elements of professionalism that follow the suit. Hygiene: Clean hair. Showered. Clean fingernails. Nails should be clean, neutral / light polish or no polish at all. Teeth should be brushed. (If you smoke, it is wise not to smoke at all before an interview. The smoke will cling to clothing and hair and gum does not eliminate the smoke from your breath) Perfumes should be ignored for the day (some people have allergies). Makeup should be clean and fresh/ understated. Hair should be a current style, color should be natural, if long it is wise to pull it up in a neat roll or clip. Jewelry tips: Earrings should be limited to one per ear. A simple watch is appropriate. but nothing bangle-y or jangle-y. A simple necklace or chain.
Good ideas... bring an extra pair of hosiery "just in case." Keep a compact in your purse for lipstick and powder touch up just before the interview.
Professional Men Clothing: Suits for men should be dark, navy or gray are the usual choices. Black suits for men carry too much power and should be avoided unless they are pinstripe. Typically you will wear a white button shirt with an understated tie. You may show color by your shirt or tie choice but try to keep it low key. Shirts may be a pale blue, pink, or yellow. Choose a tie that has an understated connection to both the suit color and the shirt color. If you stay with a white shirt, you may be able to play more with the tie. Patterns should always be small and understated. Ideally, you want them to only remember your face and what you had to say. Good Idea...Wear a white t-shirt under your shirt (it absorbs perspiration) for a crisp professional look.
It should go without saying but there are elements of professionalism that follow the suit for men as well. Hygiene is imperative. (Clean hair. Showered. Clean fingernails.) Teeth should be brushed Men should pay special attention to shaving. Hair should be recently trimmed, including any facial hair.
No visible tattoos, even if you have seen people in the school with tattoos
Shoes should be shined. A leather or leather look shoe with a hard sole. Dress socks (knee/calf high)
Ideally, men will limit jewelry to a watch and a wedding band. Men should not wear earrings to an interview. No flashy jewelry, cuff-links if worn should be plain. No cologne or heavy aftershave (some people are allergic to scents).