A detailed presentation highlighting the do's and don'ts of interview attire. Learn what to wear to make a good impression.

1. The Do’s and Don’ts of
Interview Attire

2. Appearances do matter
…and first impressions, whether in
an interview or on a first date,
REALLY matter.

3. Your attire should be noticed as
being appropriate and well
fitting, but it shouldn’t take
center stage.

4. Never confuse an interview or
business function with club attire.

5. What you select to wear for the interview
tells an employer just what kind of
employee you’ll be on the job.

6. Sloppy clothing reflects laziness.
cc: gurana - https://www.flickr.com/photos/8763589@N08

7. Excessive jewelry or make-up
implies you lack professionalism.

8. 6 Do’s When Dressing for
a Job Interview
Wearing professional and
appropriate clothing is a compliment
to the interviewer.

9. 1. When in Doubt, Wear a Suit.
Even if the work environment might be
considerably more casual, a suit for the
interview says you’re serious about the job.

10. cc: Tymtoi - https://www.flickr.com/photos/55178708@N08
2. Stick to the Basics.

11. Interview Attire Basics - for Men:
Along with the suit:
• A basic white or
light blue button-
up shirt.
• Long sleeves
(even in
summer).
• A conservative
tie.

12. For Women:
• If you wear a suit with
a skirt, it should reach
knee-length.
• Simple patterned
shirts are an
alternative to a single
color shirt.
• Pantsuits are a great
option as well.
• Remember, a suit
implies the jacket and
bottom match!

13. 3. Choose the Right Shoes.
cc: HKmPUA - https://www.flickr.com/photos/74519410@N00

14. For Men:
• Either wear a lace up or a
conservative slip-on shoe in black or
burgundy.

15. For Women:
• Women would be
best with a leather or
suede, closed toe
pump with moderate
height: no stilettos, in
a black or another
conservative color.

16. cc: bark - https://www.flickr.com/photos/49503168860@N01
4. Don’t Forget Socks or Hose.

17. For Men:
• Socks for men should match the suit.

18. For Women:
• Women’s hosiery should be a sheer
neutral color. Women often debate
the pantyhose issue. My advice is
since most of us don’t have “model
legs” plan to wear them.

19. 5. Accessories Matter.

20. For Men:
• Accessories should be kept to a
minimum.
• A watch and only your wedding
ring (if applicable).
• NO earrings!

21. For Women:
• Accessories should be kept to a
minimum.
• A classic watch and simple
earrings, 1-2 rings and a single
bracelet.
• Extra bling only leads to distraction
from you and your qualifications
for the job.

22. 6. Carry only the Essentials.
•You’ll need some type of notepad and a way
to carry additional resumes and letters of
recommendation.
•If you don’t have a portfolio or small
briefcase, some type of padfolio will do (check
out Staples or Office Depot).
•Don’t bring a backpack or large
briefcase – they’re bulky and
cumbersome.

23. Interview Attire Bonus Tips:
Grooming
•Hair: clean and neat
•Shoes: polished and not overly worn looking
•Clothing details: no missing buttons, no lint; and
don’t forget to remove external tags and tacking
stitches from new clothes.
•Hands: clean fingernails and a conservative nail
length and polish for women.
•Fit: clothes should be clean, neatly pressed, and fit
properly.
•Smell: cologne or perfume used sparingly. Also,
don’t smell like smoke.

24. Is an Associate Degree or Professional
Certificate the best education choice
for you?
Learn more about hands-on career training
programs at www.IntelliTec.edu or call
1-800-724-9636

25. Sources
• Virginia Tech; Division of Student Affairs;
http://www.career.vt.edu/interviewing/interviewappearance.html#say
• Undercover Recruiter; How to Dress for your Job Interview;
http://theundercoverrecruiter.com/how-dress-your-job-interview/
• Huffington Post; Huffpost Business; The 8 Do’s and Don’ts of Dressing for
Job Interviews; http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/08/15/job-
interview-dress-tips_n_1778102.html