There’s nothing more stress-inducing than interviewing for a job you really really want. A big part of that stress is deciding on an outfit that projects the confident, creative, successful image you want to showcase to your future employers. That’s why I always recommend having at least one go-to interview outfit on hand, since you never know when opportunity might strike! A great job interview outfit is one that you feel comfortable in because it is something you like and know you look good in, but one that takes just a little extra effort. I think it’s more than okay to wear a dress with a blazer here in Austin for most interviews, especially in the summer, and especially if it’s for a more creative-type job. Here are a few more tips for selecting a knock-em-dead interview dress-outfit:
- Start with a dress you love, and then accessorize it with more conservative elements. I wore this neutral-colored lightweight dress and added a smart-looking thin belt, business-y pumps, and a blazer.
- Play the opposites game with your layering pieces. If your dress is light and airy like this one is, choose a sharp blazer. There’s something smart and unexpected about the flowy dress paired with the crisp collar of a blazer. . If you have a more structured dress, go for a belted cardigan to get the same effect.
- Take notice of the little extras. Choose subtle jewelry. You don’t want to look like you’re trying too hard, or distract anyone with your bling. My earrings are small, and I don’t need a necklace because the print of the dress already frames my face.
- Don’t forget that you’re gonna be shaking hands and use an interview as an excuse to get a manicure. Short, neutral nails are a sure bet.
Now you wont have to worry about what you’re wearing and can concentrate on what to say! I can’t really help with that, though. I can come over and help you plan your best interview outfit according to your potential job and your body type!
Blazer (above): Banana Republic, Dress: via Last Call, Shoes: Nicole, Earrings: KS
August 10, 2011
I love your interview outfit. It is the perfect mix of professional and personality. It definitely shows off your creativity. I hope you get the job!
You look great! Confident, classic, creative. I’d hire you.
that dress!! those earrings!!
to DIE for!
xo,anna marie
those earrings are fabulous!! Such a pretty dress!!
That is such a lovely dress! You look super cute!
Great look. The dress is lovely. I’ll keep these tips in mind when I dress for my interview tommorow.
Love the dress!!!
♡ from © tanvii.com
I love that dress. I think it is so versatile and pretty and kind of retro chic too.
Ugh, my last interview outfit – talk about lack of personality! It was a black pants suit with black heels. YAWN. But I guess if you’re ever going to interview for a giant corporation way up there in a NYC skyscraper, yawn works (but it is still yawn).
Awesome look – love the dress/blazer combo
Fingers crossed!
So, here’s a true story: I am giving a short talk at a conference in September and thought that I would need a business suit. But…I hate those things. Plus I have a really nice blazer that I should wear more. Then I saw this post, and remembered that I don’t have to wear clothes I hate. And THEN, yesterday I was shopping in the city and found a breezy-yet-fitted-at-the-top dress in a cute fifties-inspired plaid print. It looks amazing with the blazer and black mary jane heels I already own. Sha-zam! Creative, classy presenter outfit.
All this to say: Thank you for this post and the much-needed reminder that it’s possible to be professional without being boring (helps that I’m in education, not a corporate environment).
Lydia x
Hallelujah, sister! Your comments always make my day. Thanks so much for the story. You don’t have to wear clothes you hate!
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