
Dress for Success
The following is a list of suggestions on dress and appearance when going to a job interview. The best guideline to following is to dress conservatively, and to dress “one step” above what you might wear on a typical day of work.
Business Professional (Job Interviewing Attire)
Clothes:
- Solid, dark or neutral colors
- Light colors can be worn underneath
- No stripes or bright prints/colors
Shoes:
- Closed-toe heel or dress shoes
Suit Jacket and Pants/Skirt:
- Should be matching colors
- Dark gray, navy, or black
- Long sleeve, button-down white shirt with cuff just past sleeve of suit jacket
- White blouse or color that matches formal pants suit
Hair and Facial Hair:
- Well groomed; neatly trimmed
Jewelry and Fragrance:
- Moderate jewelry
- Avoid strong perfume or cologne
Other:
- Tie should reach just above belt buckle
- Keep cellphones turned off and out of sight
- Carry a portfolio, professional bag, or simple purse
- Socks same color as pants; Stockings natural color
Business Casual (Daily Work Attire)
Colors and Styles:
- Nice pants/slacks
- Dresses
- No jeans, shorts, sundresses or athletic wear
Skirts and Dresses:
- Should be knee length when standing and cover thighs while seated
Ties:
- Optional
Jackets and Shoes:
- Blazers and cardigans with flats, boots, closed-toe shoes, or comfortable shoes for walking.
Clothes:
- Tailored and fit properly (not too long or too short)
- In good condition
- Wrinkle and lint free
Hair and Facial Hair:
- Well groomed; neatly trimmed
Nails and Makeup:
- Natural in style
Jewelry and Fragrance:
- Moderate jewelry
- Avoid strong perfume or cologne
Shoes:
- Neat and clean
Belts:
- Should match the color of your shoes and attire
Adapted from Stetson University’s Office of Career and Professional Development: https://www.stetson.edu/administration/career/dress-to-impress.php