Style, Swagger and Sophistication

Style, Swagger and Sophistication- A Fashion Column for Young Professionals

By LaToya DeLoach, Editorial Contributor

Topic 1: Dressing for the Interview

Remember the way you felt when you were headed for drinks with the girls, happy hour with friends, or on your first date with a guy? Well, treat your job interview the same way, well … sort of. The most important part about a job interview is selling yourself. You’ve passed the harsh screening process, your resume obviously didn’t lie on the recruiter’s desk for days at a time (or maybe it did … but who cares you snagged an interview), someone actually picked up the phone to call and ask about your credentials and has invited you for the next step. Which is great, but now what?

The way I dress signifies the way I feel, and I’m sure the same goes for you too! While you’re researching the company to find interesting facts and brainstorming for questions to ask the interviewer, remember your appearance says a lot more than you think. “Dressing for the part” is something we’ve all heard over and over again, but what does that mean? Well, here are a few things to keep in mind when finding the right attire for an interview:

1.             Be comfortable. – Wear something that you can easily move in and not have to constantly tug at. When someone is always fixing their dress, shirt, or belt, they appear uncomfortable and exude low self-esteem-not someone who’s going to get the job!

2.             Be yourself. – I know a lot of articles, professionals, and industry leaders will tell you to stick to the navy/black color scheme, but don’t be afraid to jazz it up a little! I landed my second internship and I wore a red purse to the interview. I’m not saying go THIS far, but don’t be afraid to wear a pink shirt under that dull gray pantsuit, and add your favorite necklace and earrings as well. I have yet to see someone NOT get a job because they looked TOO cute!

3.             Be heard. – Let your style and image speak for itself. Whatever you wear (and whatever crazy color you pull out of your closet for that day), make sure it doesn’t overshadow your professionalism, or keep your true voice from being heard. Also, make sure to still be neat: with shirts tucked in, clothes ironed, etc. This way, you appear to be organized and detail oriented (which is always a key criteria employers look for, but NEVER know how to measure).

Setting yourself apart from the other interviewees is always key, and dressing in a way that has an emotional effect on the person interviewing you is important (colors do this!!). Don’t be afraid to show your personal style and flair, without screaming it. While I’ve never been a fan, Paris Hilton made a great point in saying, “The only rule is don’t be boring and dress cute wherever you go. Life is too short to blend in.”

Be comfortable, be YOURSELF and be heard! Good luck!

-LaToya Deloach, Editorial Contributor