You’ve sent off your resume and within a short period you’re called in for an interview – can there be a better feeling?
So how do you set yourself apart from all the other applicants who probably have a similar degree, similar internships/experience and similar answers to the company’s questions? You dress for the part!
Before we put a few outfits together, let’s go through some simple housekeeping rules:
♦ Try a colour other than a black suit. According to MJ Bale Manager Roberto Grasso “Black suits send the wrong message for interview, I always suggest wear navy or grey/charcoal.”
♦ Don’t wear or purchase a suit too small or too big for you.
♦ When purchasing a suit jacket, check how the suit sits on your shoulder, the seam should line up with your shoulder.
♦ Ideally wear a blue or white shirt that doesn’t gape when you’re sitting down. Similar to the suit jacket, the seam should line up with your shoulder. I strongly recommend a French cuffed shirt as opposed to a buttoned shirt.
♦ If the job you’ve applied for is more of a creative role that doesn’t require a suit day-to-day, try mixing and matching your jacket and trouser. For example, a beige/tobacco trouser with an open collared white shirt and a navy jacket.
♦ Any tie that is less than 5.5cm wide is too narrow.
♦ A brown shoe is a better contrast to a navy suit than your standard black shoe.
An Interview Outfit On A Budget
The Suit
Taymount Slim Suit
Connor $199.99 (on sale for $149.99)
This is a slim cut suit that can be appropriate for an interview because of its dark navy colour. It’s also versatile enough to wear to the races or a wedding if worn with a brighter colour shirt and tie.
The Shirt
Highgate Stretch Shift French Cuff Shirt
Oxford $129.00 (on sale $64.50)
French cuff shirts are considered more formal so they’re always a good choice for an interview.
The Tie
Circle Grid Tie
YD. $29.99 (on sale for $22.49)
This navy patterned tie brings the outfit together because of the similar colour to the jacket but the pattern on the tie breaks it up.
The Shoes
Gibson by Nova
Payless Shoes $49.99 (on sale for $34.99)
The almond toe style of the shoe adds subtle elegance and style.
An Interview Outfit You Can Splurge On
The Suit
Maluca Suit
MJ Bale $599
If you don’t fit in the traditional suit sizes and need to buy separates the Maluca Suit can accommodate just that. For example, if you’re a size 38 jacket you won’t have to buy the traditionally matching 32 trouser.
The Shirt
Non-Iron Slim Fit Spread Collar French Cuff Dress Shirt – White
Brooks Brothers $99
This crisp white shirt with French cuff is perfect for an interview. The Ainsley collar style looks best with a Windsor knot tie.
The Tie
Navy Twill with Triple Stripe
Rhodes and Beckett $119
This tie brings the outfit together but adds character with s diagonal stripe.
The Shoes
Cage
Florsheim $169.95
The brown shoe is a stylish contrast with the French Navy suit, not otherwise achievable with a black shoe.
They don’t say, “first impressions last forever” for no reason, so don’t let your attire be the reason you miss out on the perfect role!
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Just picked up the Maluca suit from MJ – thanks for the tips!
Great advice about the grey/navy suit for interviews. You pretty much hit the nail on the head with the first outfit. Are you stalking my wardrobe..?
Fantastic article