Dressings

Dressing to impress interviewers is a crucial part of your job search strategy. Statistics indicate that the interviewer will decide within the first six seconds if you are worthy of being considered further as a candidate. This decision will be made strictly on your appearance!
Although you may believe that no one should be judged by what they wear, the reality is that interviewers are looking for reasons to remove you from their selection process. They are looking to see if you respect them enough to conform to their perceived expectations. Whether you like it or not, how you dress is taken into consideration in hiring decisions. You want to have a competitive edge, especially when it comes to making initial impressions, so how you dress for an interview is critical!
Research the interviewer before the interview. Explore the dress requirements typical of your career field. For example, a job in Silicon Valley will call for a different image than on Wall Street. One way to gauge this is to dress in the manner of the organization's representatives. You may find this out by visiting the office and picking up an annual report, brochure, or application.
The clothing you wear should make you look like you fit in with the prospective organization and should really communicate the message, "I am already one of you." If you overdress or underdress, the potential employer may feel that your research has been limited and you really do not understand the organizational culture. Some may see you as a non-conformist, others may appreciate your independent thinking, but all will make a judgement on you, based on attire.
If in doubt, it is always better to be more formally dressed. You will feel more comfortable and prepared for an important interview. Rumpled and wrinkled clothing is out. Shoes should be polished, not scuffed, and coordinated with your outfit. Fly-away hair or bizarre haircuts are out; make sure it is neat and well groomed. Avoid wearing cologne or perfume. Your hands and nails should be clean and trimmed. If you have doubts about what to wear, err on the side of conservatism.
Dress not for where you are but for where you want to be. An interview is not a beauty contest, the interviewer always notices appearance. Do not give the interviewer a chance to rule you out. Dress in a business-like professional manner, and you will be sure to fit in wherever you interview.
WOMEN
Suits A traditional skirted suit is considered appropriate business attire. Conservative colors such as dark navy or gray are recommended. The skirt length should be between mid-calf and the bottom of the knee. Remember, a power suit is a skirted suit, not a pant suit. Colors like brown, camel or beige are also feasible.
Blouses A white, solid color, or striped blouse (not a brilliant shade) with a modest neckline and long sleeves is suggested. A neck scarf or lapel pin may be worn. Avoid sweaters, vests, lace, and excess ruffles.
Shoes Shoes should not be flat nor should the heels exceed 2-1/2 inches in height; they should be closed-toe and in a color that complements rather than contrasts with your outfit. Keep shoes clean and polished.
Accessories Avoid wearing any clothing, accessories or jewelry which might distract or draw attention to yourself rather than reinforcing your look as a professional. No large or dangling earrings. One ring per hand. Bracelets are OK so long as they don't dangle or detract. Conservative necklaces are OK.
Grooming Make-up should enhance your appearance. If you wear nail polish, make sure it is a subtle color and neatly done. Hair should be clean and neatly styled. Women who have long hair should wear it fastened back from their face; this sends the message of having positive self-esteem.
MEN
Suits A conservatively cut suit in dark navy or gray is essential. If you do not own a suit, invest in one. A tailored suit will last many years into your professional career. If you are unable to buy a suit at this time, borrow one from a friend. If you are unable to obtain a suit, a conservative sports jacket and dress trousers are second best.
Shirts A cotton-blend white or a white-on-white pattern long-sleeved shirt is essential. Solid light blue is an acceptable alternative. If you do not own either, buy some. There is no short cut here, and if you get the job you will probably need more than one shirt anyway.
Ties A silk tie with stripes, or a small print in a color that "goes" with the suit is required. Silk ties knot best so are worth the extra cost. Avoid bright red or yellow ties; you should not be remembered or described by the color of tie you were wearing.
Shoes Shoes should be brown or black polished leather and in good repair. Stay away from styles which include buckles or chains. Never wear white, tan or suede shoes.
Socks Wear comfortable dark socks. Depending on the outfit use black, dark gray or dark blue. Never wear white socks.
Jewelery No earrings for men. One ring per hand. Bracelets and neck chains are not recommended.
Grooming Men should wear their hair neatly trimmed. Facial hair is not recommended.
BUSINESS CASUAL - Once You Have Started Your Job
At last count, over 70% of American firms allowed some form of casual attire at least once a week. Many of you will have a chance to work in situations where the dress code is more relaxed. The words "business casual" is subject to multiple interpretations depending on the environment. "Business or workplace casual" means charcoal pants and a white oxford button down shirt and a quality pair of casual shoes for men. A banded-collar shirt is another good staple that goes well with blazers and vests. Another option is a denim shirt with a sporty tie. Choose your casual attire carefully, and use your common sense when dressing for work; looking neat should be a priority. Avoid t-shirts, baseball caps and sunglasses. Tennis shoes, no matter how clean and new, are considered inappropriate for most employers. Do not take "casual dress" too literally. You are better off dressing a bit on the conservative side than on taking a gamble only to find out that your idea of casual does not match that of your employer.