Everyone knows that “the first impression is the only one that matters”. This faithful motto is especially true when applying for a job. Touch up your résumé, arrange your portfolio and practice that firm handshake because putting together an outfit for that anticipated day can sometimes be the hardest part. The following should act as a guide to help you find and master your own perfect, polished and professional look.

First, consider the nature of the position that you are applying for. Conservative and highly professional occupations, such as banks or law firms require interview attire that would differ than those positions in the advertising, fashion and entertainment industries, where the dress code would be slightly more lenient and allow for a bit more individualistic expression.If you're in doubt, casually stop by the office a few weeks before your interview, introduce yourself to the receptionist and have a look to see what others are wearing. This should give you a better idea as to what is acceptable and how you can successfully fit in.
Achieving a clean, professional look may seem easy, but can actually be quite a challenge. A few wardrobe staples worn the right way can ensure that you join the corporate environment seamlessly.
As soon as you walk into an interview, it's important top roject an image of confidence and competence. In general, stick to neutralcolours and crisp blacks and whites.
Her:
Some basic interview tops that should be staples in your wardrobe include a nice, freshly-pressed, tailored white shirt, a silk blouse, a cashmere turtleneck, a black or brown blazer and a cardigan. For the bottom, stick with a great pair of black, brown, grey or pinstripe trousers. Pencil orA-line skirts that hit below the knee to mid-calf are great for an office interview. Tailored pantsuits can also look very modern and chic.
There are a few simple ways to wear a jacket and a great pair of pants that will allow you to look well dressed and leave a lasting impression. First, choose a nice, comfortable camisole to wear over your crisp dress pants. A tailored blouse with ruffles or a bow peaking through the jacket front is a nice feminine touch that shows personality and confidence. Show the shirt sleeves at the end of your jacket to lengthen the look of your arms and pull the style together.
Fit is everything. Tailored clothes look great as long as they're tailored correctly. If you're wearing a button-up shirt, be positive that the buttons don't pull at your bust. At Le Château, all of our shirts havea mid-bust snap to keep those pulling gaps in place.
Test your final outfit before you leave the house. Be sure that you can sit, walk and move around in it easily. Also look to see that nothing you have on is see-through or shows any bra or panty lines.
On the same note, make sure that everything you wear is wrinkle and lint free.
Avoid open-toe shoes and opt for a classic pair of pumps.Wear a flat, kitten or mid-height heel. Five-inch heels are not appropriate for an interview.
Under no circumstances should you ever wear the following to an interview (or at the workplace, for that matter): a tube top or dress, strappy heels, spaghetti straps, lace or anything cut low enough to see cleavage or high enough to see midriff. These pieces are absolute interview killers. Be certain to remove any sunglasses sitting on top of your head and hide any headphones or media devices in your bag or briefcase.
In terms of jewellery, stick to wearing your basics: a pair of gold, pearl or diamond studs. Dangly, chandelier or hoop earrings are distracting. A bracelet, a necklace or a ring with some colour or detail can work, as long as it's not too trendy or loud. Generally, however, jewellery should be kept to a minimum. This minimalist approach should also be followed when it comes to hairstyles and makeup. Less really is more.
Handbags should be structured, clean and professional looking. A red crocodile print bag in a classic Birkin style can be a great addition to a black suit with a tailored white shirt.
Never stuff your bag full. The objective is to appear organized and in control. If your bag is overflowing with papers, magazines,lip glosses and more and it takes you longer than 20 seconds to dig up your resume, it's a bad sign- and your interviewee will certainly take notice.
Him:
Interview attire is a bit easier for men. You want to convey a look that is neat and professional. Stick with a dark coloured suit and a crisp, white shirt. Never wear a short-sleeved shirt with a tie - it's a hideous combination that will make you look dated and very uncool.
A silk tie in a solid colour (that is not too wide or too thin) is your best bet. A simple pocket square is an effective way to add personality to your suit and help you to stand out from the other contenders. Wear a great leather belt in a black or auburn colour to pull the look together.
Make sure you wear dress shoes that are freshly polished, scuff-free and more importantly comfortable; you don't want to show up in a pair of brand new shoes and wind up limping from blisters as your prospective boss gives you a tour of the office. A pair of thin, dark-coloured dress socks finish off the suit.
For jewellery, wear a nice silver or gold watch. Sporty-style or athletic watches do not go with dress clothes. Omit any other type of embellishments: necklaces, earrings, bracelets, etc.
In the end, the goal is to appear well-groomed, presentable and self-assured; convince your interviewee that you are going to make a great addition to the company.
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