Dressing for Success (or, How Not to Look Homeless)

So, a few months ago, you sent out your job/internship applications, and—score!—the employer has contacted you for an interview. Ever hear that interviewers can make a decision within the first minute of meeting you? Here’s how to dazzle them with your appearance so you can go on to impress them with your wit and intelligence.

Recommendations for women:

-A conservative colored suit or tailored dress. Skirts should come to around the knee (no high slits), and trousers shouldn’t be low-rise. No employer wants to see your muffin-tops, that bellybutton ring you thought was so trendy, or the thong you got on sale at Victoria’s Secret.

-A white/pastel-colored blouse that has sleeves and a decent neckline. I know you’re proud of the ladies, but they’re not the ones getting you the job (I hope).

-Black/brown comfortable shoes that don’t look like they’re falling apart. And yes, this means no moccasins, flip-flops, Uggs, Fuggs, gladiators, or 3-inch oxfords.

-Pantyhose…yes, pantyhose, preferably in neutral tones, even if you think those purple fishnets look oh, so perfect.

-Conservative accessories, such as simple earrings (keep it to one per ear), practical handbag, and a professional portfolio for extra resume copies, paper, and a pen. As much as I think you’re a total rebel for having a metal bar through your ear, your interviewer might think “walking tetanus.” You can also leave your favorite hemp, “One earth, one love” shoulder bag at home for the day. Just go and stimulate the economy with a trip to Target.

Recommendations for men:

-Black, gray, or navy suit. I know, I know, “A suit?! What am I, like, 30?” The short answer: No, but you will be someday, and wearing the suit your mother bought you when you were 17 isn’t going to cut it. I know this also goes without saying, but a proper suit has never included, and will never include SKINNY JEANS.

-Long-sleeved, white/light blue button down shirt that’s also tucked into your (non-skinny) pants along with a tie. Kanye might be able to rock the t-shirt/suit jacket look, but you’re not Kanye, are you?

-For shoe recommendations, see above recommendations for women (including the bit about the 3-inch oxfords). Same goes for accessories.

Lastly, some general tips:

-Your hair (on your head and on your face) should be well-groomed. You might have mastered the “I-just-rolled-out-of-bed-see-how-cool-I-look” look, but your interviewer, mother, and I would probably agree: a little shampoo, conditioner, and product goes a long way.

-Keep cologne/perfume to a minimum. You’re not going to get a job just because you smell like junior high girls experimenting at a slumber party. If you’re that conscious about body odor, shower and lay on the deodorant.

Now, go forth and impress. Don’t forget, the CDO also does mock interviews if you’d like that extra prep.