I really wanted to touch on this subject since I work with a lot of business women. I wardrobe many women each day for work events, day-to-day work wear and of course the all important interview for their dream job. Just as much time and energy you put into preparing for the interview before hand, such as researching the company etc., should be the same time and effort you put into finding the perfect outfit that says "I am your new ______can't you tell!!" When walking into an interview room what you wear is the first impression they will have of you. So you must think to yourself, "what am I saying in this outfit?". What you decide to wear will project more than you think. You can only make a first impression once so you must get it right the first time. There is no room for error in interviewing for your dream job! You can think about your outfit as your "body" resume, just like the words on a paper make up your resume on paper the garments you chose to wear make up your resume on your body. They both must project the same thing, that you are the right candidate for the job.

Since, we now live in the 21st century what use to be appropriate for an interview has definitely started to evolve. What use to be unacceptable is now considered appropriate. For many, people still have the notion that when interviewing for a job you must wear a suit. And as that still may be true for a small proportion of jobs you may interview for, 9 out of 10 times it is unnecessary and now may be considered over the top. And I know you must think I am crazy for saying that wearing a suit to an interview is over the top but in actuality it is very true. Since, the first lady, Michelle Obama made the sheath dress appropriate for everyday work wear, the business place has been taken over by more trendy and stylish work attire. It's great because you can now show your personal style even through your work wear. Additionally, many companies also dress business casual now and it's always a good rule of thumb to dress for the job you are interviewing for. They need to be able to envision you doing the job through all aspects, including you looking the part. Thus, depending on what job you are interviewing for will really decipher what you will want to wear. There is no one outfit that will work for all interviews however, its important that no matter what you wear you look polished and put together. Also, when accessorizing be careful of over doing it. If you are not sure I would say stick to diamond or pearl studs and/or a pearl necklace (shows signs of success). It is important to make the jewelry complimentary to the outfit and not a distraction. When I say distractions I am referring to bangles and necklaces that make noise when moving. I would definitely say in this situation less is more. Furthermore, just as much as the jewelry can make n break your outfit so can your shoes. Do not wear anything evening such as strappy shoes, cage heals or booties. I have always believed that a classic pump or peep toe is the best option no matter what job you are interviewing for. It just looks more polished and professional. :) And finally keep in mind of the length of your skirt/dress (if you wear one), it should be no shorter than right above your knee and consider the cut of your top; this goes back to making sure its professional and appropriate. When in doubt go longer in length and more covered on top. If you are questioning it its probably not appropriate. Also, sit in your outfit as well facing a mirror and make sure the length does not rise too much and that when you stand up you do not need to fidget with your garments. Last but not least make sure everything is cleaned and pressed! :)

Here are a few ideas/pointers for an array of job categories. (these are only my suggestions you still want to put your own personal style twist on whatever you choose)

FASHION/RETAIL: Dress fashion forward, you really have endless options. Sheath dress, high waisted pant with great blouse...Statement piece is definitely a must here.

ACCOUNTING/FINANCE/INSURANCE: Mismatching suit, meaning 2 pieces that truly complement each other without being matchy matchy!! Have fun with jewelry, cocktail ring etc!

LEGAL: Matching Suit. Personally, I would suggest a jacket and skirt instead of a jacket and pants. Your underpinning is were you can have fun, do not wear red! Stick to basic colors as well when it comes to the suit (no strips). Simple jewelry.

REAL ESTATE: Matching suit or suit jacket with a great skirt/pant (mismatching suit). I am a big fan of tweed skirts/pants with a great tailored solid jacket.

TEACHER: Dress fun but professional. You really want to show your personality through your outfit. Sheath dress with or without blazer, basic pant with fun top. Play up the jewelry!

MEDICAL/HEATH: Great blouse with skirt/pant. No need to wear blazer.

GREAT BRANDS:

• Michael Kors, Jason Wu, Dolce & Gabanana (AMAZING sheath dresses)
• Theory, Theyskens Theory (great basics and full suiting, runs small)
• Nanette Lepore (great tweed pieces)
• Rachel Roy (unique sheath dresses)
• Kate Spade (fun pieces for underpinnings)
• Milly (fun pieces)
• Elie Tahari (Full suiting, fits wide range)
• DVF (wrap dresses and great blouses)
• Robert Rodriguez (great blouses and blazers)
• Smythe (BEST fitting blazers)

Example: (this would be great for teaching interview) Minus the bangles..do a cocktail ring instead.

Do you look the part for your dream job??

Until next time stay styled right! xoxo FSR