The other day my mom asked me if it was okay to wear a printed blouse or dress on a job interview. Before this, it had never really occurred to me how tricky it is to pick an outfit for your upcoming interview.
When I asked friends and family what they would wear on a job interview, they all pretty much said the same boring thing, black trousers and a button down shirt…what? While there is a time and place for a conservative pant suit (some businesses may even require it), you want to impress your (potential) future employer with who you are and stand out from the masses.
The best way to set yourself apart from the rest of the interviewees is to add a print or a bright color into your outfit. You want your outfit to be an extension of yourself, so choose a print or color that best represents you. Always keep in mind the nature of your interview: if you’re interviewing for a position in the fashion world, the bolder the better. On the other hand, if you’re interviewing for a position where fashion is not a priority it is best to be more conservative in your prints and/or colors.
Balance is the key to wearing prints successfully. For example, if you choose to wear a printed blouse, you would pair it with a solid colored (this doesn’t have to mean black) trouser or skirt. A printed dress should be worn with a solid color blazer or cardigan, though keep in mind printed dresses tend to be more casual and informal.
If you are not comfortable wearing prints and colors in your clothes, add in color with a statement necklace, your shoes or handbag. When choosing shoes for an interview, do not pick your best clubbing heels, especially when wearing prints. Choose a more conservative heel, or for those more comfortable with their feet on the ground, rock a ballerina flat.
Whatever you choose to wear, make sure you feel confident and comfortable. Confidence is key, so pick an outfit that makes you feel like a rockstar, super model, Jennifer Lawrence-whatever your ideal is- and rock that interview!
"poverty of the mind" by Adam Foster, used under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0
