What I Wear to an Interview
A year ago at this time, I was nearing graduation, preparing for my many interviews on the horizon. Finding myself staring at my closet like many of us stare into our refrigerators. Blank faced, looking longingly, hoping that what I really wanted would just appear. Deciding what to wear to an interview can be a challenge for women. “I don’t want to look like I am trying too hard, but I want to look like I take myself and the job seriously. But what about the weather? Now I have to find something professional and snow proof?!”
This can feel impossible, and I’m here to help. Today, I will be showing you my go-to interview look, as well as places I like to shop for versatile professional wear.
My Look
I love a big, fat bow. On a puppy, or a package, or around my neck. This blouse is the perfect intersection between professionalism and personal style. Light and airy with beautiful detailing, this blouse immediately became my Interview Shirt the moment I saw it.
Not pictured, my trousers. On the day to day I am a ponte pant girl, but an interview is worth busting out the proper pants. With an outfit like this, I like to tuck this blouse into my shaping trousers. Giving interest and structure to the otherwise flowy look.
When wearing a busy blouse, you need to have a different eye to the hair styling and jewelry. Big hair with big earrings and a big bow might be a little distracting, and a shirt like this deserves the focus. A mid to low pony tail with a little volume at the root is not only a very professional hairstyle, but let’s the bow breathe and center the look. Paired with darling little knot earrings, this look is it. My Rothy’s are a perfect shoe to this look, and I can walk into that interview with confidence and style.
There is an occasion for every lipstick, and a lipstick for every occasion. It’s important to operate on the “enhance your natural beauty” side of lipstick when interviewing. Just like me, you may feel powerful and confident in a red lip. But unfortunately, some people/interviewers find it inappropriate and off-putting to be so bold upon first impression. I go for a shade that has an illuminating color quality yet, while being categorically “natural.” With a bit of shine to boot, my lip selection shouldn’t be shocking to my following.
Where to buy Professional Wear
Ann Taylor
For me, Ann Taylor was once an outdated fabric factory churning out recycled styles to Karen in Finance. Today, Ann Taylor is one of the only places I shop for convertible professional attire. Always remembering to size up for my boobs and butt, Ann Taylor has really stepped their game up over the past few years. It is noticeable how their buyers are buying more complex colors, as well as expanding patterns from a one piece wonder, to a full blown collection. NEVER PAY FULL PRICE! I actually worked for Loft (an Ann Taylor brand), and quickly learned that almost everything (even the new stuff) goes on sale regularly.
J. Crew
No surprises here. J. Crew is a pillar of my wardrobe, and their clothes get me the most compliments. Modern staples like turtlenecks and toppers give me seasonal and professional flexibility. Like Ann Taylor, J. Crew items are things I never buy full price. If you keep you eye on their regular promotions, you’ll find that they do up to 40% off the whole store often. I always size up at J. Crew because who is actually that small? If you’re in the market for adult patterns and flexible staples, head to J. Crew.