Job interview/Internhsip

This type of attire is appropriate for any interview. Businesses appreciate the time, effort and professionalism that people put into dressing for an interview.

Neutral colors are always the safest option when searching for an outfit to wear for an interview, said Salina DuBose, graduate appointee for the Career Services Center. Dark attire is the most appropriate because it expresses professionalism. Dubose said most employers are receptive when people wear navy colored clothes.

Pants or skirts are appropriate as long as the skirt is below the knee. Stockings can have simple designs as long as they don’t clash with the outfit. Heels should have a matte finish and be no higher than three inches.

“It doesn’t have to be a pump, but definitely not a stiletto, either,” DuBose said.

DuBose said she encourages students to wear a blazer. It’s always a safe option; something you know employers will respect. To spice-up a dull outfit, a white or beige undershirt or blouse with ruffles in the front can be worn with the blazer. For a more subtle look, wear a button-down blouse and flip the collar over the blazer.

“You can still maintain your individuality and look professional,” DuBose said. “There’s a way to merge the two together, just be cognitive of what that is.”

Jewelry should be worn in moderation. DuBose said she recommends students wear pearls because they’re professional and go with everything. Hoop earrings larger than a quarter and other dangling jewelry are not appropriate for interviews.

When preparing for the interview, take off any flashy nail polish. Neutral colors can be used, but isn’t necessary. Don’t overdo it with make-up or hairspray, DuBose said. Colorful eye shadow can be worn, but be mindful of how to wear it.

“If it’s something you know how to apply, go for it.” DuBose said, “but don’t use an interview to experiment with a new look.”

Trendy off campus jobs.

Some jobs don’t require pressed suits and skirts, but managers still appreciate cleanliness and professional attire. John Richardson, store manager of Starbucks, said the most important thing about dressing for an interview is to look clean.

Richardson said he doesn’t have a preference to jeans or dress pants. As long as the pants are clean, don’t have any holes in them and fit the person, it’s appropriate. Blazers are a nice touch, but a button down shirt or nice blouse will also work.

Richardson does not like to see people wearing sandals to an interview. Stick to flat or small-heeled dress shoes.

The store has rules and regulations that forbid its employees to have facial piercing or unnatural hair color. Other fashionable jewelry like earrings, necklaces and a couple rings are acceptable. Richardson said he doesn’t mind when someone dresses fashionable, as long as they know where to draw the line.

The bar scene

Dressing for an interview at a bar has its perks. Something in your closet is bound to be appropriate, but that doesn’t mean picking something out of the dirty clothes pile.

“Sometimes people come in with dirty or stained clothes, and that’s just not going to work,” said Katlin Rossi, store manager of The Brewhouse.

Blazers and collared shirts are not necessary for this type of interview. Rossi said a nice shirt is appropriate as long as there’s no midriff showing.

A woman who comes in wearing a plain T-shirt and a pair of flat shoes will be dressed fine. On the other end, Rossi said it’s always nice to hire “fashion forward” women who dress more stylish.

Jeans with holes in them are acceptable as long as the holes aren’t huge or in inappropriate places. Rossi said she doesn’t mind when people wear heels to an interview, as long as they’re not obnoxiously high.

Tattoos and piercings don’t need to be hidden from view for an interview. Rossi said she respects different styles. When she conducts interviews, the most important thing is to find people who respect themselves.

Contact Rachel Hagenbaugh at [email protected].