CONSERVATIVE is the key word for appropriate attire at a job interview.  Like it or not, people make judgments based on dress.  The type of dress depends on the position: a welder in a dark conservative suit may come across as not wanting to get dirty.  An accountant does not seem as professional in a pair of khakis and polo shirt.

WOMEN

Suits/Skirts:   

• Suits convey the greatest professionalism, authority, and competence

• Dark colors – navy blue, gray, black

• Knee-length hem

Blouses:                        

• Solid colors – white, beige, red

• Long-sleeved; tucked in

Dresses: 

• Long-sleeved

• Gray pinstripe, navy blue, tan, black -- stay away from floral designs

• Knee-length hem

Pantsuits: 

• A well-tailored pantsuit may be acceptable

• Dark colors – navy blue, gray, black

Hosiery: 

• Flesh-toned or dark colored; no runs

Shoes:

• Basic pump/dress shoe with moderate-sized heel (or flats) -- black, navy blue, beige

• Closed heel and toe; polished; no decorations

Nails: 

• Nails should be manicured at a medium length

• Either no polish or a neutral-colored polish

Make Up:

• Look natural with little or no makeup

Hair:  

• Hair should be combed; long hair pulled back

• One shade -- preferably a natural color

• Keep hair gels and sprays to a minimum

Jewelry:  

• Limit jewelry

• One ring per hand; one set of earrings (no bigger than a nickel); one necklace inside blouse

• A good quality watch is acceptable

• No nose/eyebrow rings

Misc:  

• Bathe, use deodorant, and use little or no perfume

• Teeth brushed, breath fresh

Suits/Jacket:

• Suits convey the greatest professionalism, authority, and competence; single-breasted is a more classic look

• Dark colors – navy blue, gray, black

Pants:  

• Dress pants or khakis for a more casual look

• Pants should be pulled up to waist

Shirts:   

• Solid color – preferably white

• Long-sleeved; tucked in

Ties:

• Wear an “updated” tie (not loud or wild); the smaller the pattern, the more authority projected

Belts/Shoes:

• Preferably leather; belt and shoes the same color

• Polished dress shoes or clean casual shoes

• Dark-colored dress socks (not white)

Hair: 

• Hair should be combed; long hair pulled back; clean shaven

• One shade -- preferably a natural color

• Keep hair gels and sprays to a minimum

Jewelry:    

• Limit jewelry

• One ring per hand; no earrings or nose/eyebrow rings; one necklace inside shirt

• A good quality watch is acceptable (not one with all the gadgets)

Misc: 

• Bathe, use deodorant, and use little or no cologne

• Teeth brushed, breath fresh