Professional Attire
Professional attire means different things depending on your unique employment setting. Plan to wear a suit to your interviews unless otherwise instructed by the employer. Business attire consists of suits with the option of matching pants, skirts, or dresses. Business casual means pants, skirts, structured dresses, shirts with ties, polo-style shirts, and blouses. Jackets are optional.
A suit is recommended as your most professional outfit. It is better to be dressed up more than needed than be casual for an interview. You want the interviewer to remember you dressed professionally and appropriately and not distracted by the color, fit, or selection of apparel or jewelry. Be sure clothing fits well - not too tight or loose, short or long or revealing. Wear clothing that is comfortable when standing, walking, and sitting.
PRO TIP:
Start out a new job by dressing just a little bit better than you believe is the norm in your new workplace to make a good first impression.
Even if you want to be on the cutting edge of fashion, an interview may not be the right forum. Once hired, and office protocol allows it, you may wear trendy clothes.
So, what do you wear?
- A conservative suit is best (shades of blue, black, or gray)
- White or neutral color shirt or blouse, conservative tie (dark colors, small patterns)
- Minimal makeup; clean-shaven or the well-groomed; neat, trimmed fingernails
- Clean, polished shoes, heels should be three inches or lower
What is business casual?
Appropriate business casual dress typically includes dress pants or khakis, dress shirts, blouses, polo shirts, optional tie or seasonal sport coat, a dress or skirt at knee-length or below, a tailored blazer, knit shirt or sweater, and loafers or dress shoes that cover all or most of the foot.
Resources
Check us out on Pinterest for helpful tips and resources.
Rocket Style Career Closet
Rocket Style serves as an on-campus resource for UToledo students to select professional clothing items in preparation for an upcoming interview, new job, conference, and other professional endeavors. Appointments can be scheduled in Handshake!