Interview Dressing: How to Dress to Impress

Posted by admin, June-3-2010

Last year I wrote an article for a big newspaper on interview dressing. The process involved gathering quotes from brand consultants, tailors, employers, head hunters, recruitment consultants and fashion houses. Opinions differed slightly but the general consensus was the same: what you wear to an interview matters a lot. I’ll admit there might be a modicum of self-interest in taking this view if you’re a tailor or fashion designer, but in general those who think it’s all about what’s on the inside need to think again.

Firstly, this isn’t about fashion. It’s not about stunning your potential employer with the latest AW10 handbag, an on-trend Bouclé jacket or shoulder pads that defy gravity. In 99% of cases they really won’t care. It’s more about finding a balance between dull conservatism and looking like you’ve been styled by a blind charity shop worker.

A brand consultant I spoke to talked about focusing on your ‘triangle of influence’ or the area between your forehead and shoulders. Remember, you might be wearing a fabulous skirt or shoes, but once you’ve sat down it is your outfit from the waist upwards that will be most visible. In other words, think like a newsreader.

Gender-permitting, ban the following from your triangle of influence:

Unbrushed hair
Excessive make-up
Clevage
Comedy ties
Exposed bra straps
Tatty or turned-up collars
Christmas tree / parrot earrings
Undone top buttons
Stains
Sweat patches
Hair gel
Chewing gum
Piercings beyond the ear lobe

Men: don’t skimp when you buy a suit, a top employer told me there’s nothing more off-putting than an ill-fitting one. This doesn’t mean you have to extend your overdraft five times over and head to Saville Row – M&S came most highly recommended. Invest in a decent pair of shoes too.

Women: you have more freedom, so don’t spend money on a suit if you can’t afford a nice one. If your bank account won’t stretch to a Vivienne Westwood or a Reiss (ie if you’re like most people) go for separates instead; a blouse and pencil skirt combination or dress teamed with a blazer. Go for those brilliant brands that look more expensive than they are, like Zara.

Interviews are horribly pressurised situations where you’re required to make the maximum impression in the minimum amount of time. If the employer is seeing a number of candidates that day, it’s always a good idea to have an extra weapon in your arsenal, even if you’re confident you’re perfect for the job. Remember that, to a certain extent, all people – even the fairest – will judge by appearances, it’s simply human nature. Your experience might speak volumes, but a tatty hem, too-short skirt or comedy tie will speak for you before you’ve opened your mouth.

By Lucy Pavia, Follow Lucy’s blog at www.girluninterrupted.co.uk/