by Trenna Sue Hiler

Created on: January 14, 2009   Last Updated: March 22, 2011

It's time for a change and a new job. The resume looks perfect.It isprinted on the right kind of paper, in the correct font and size. There have been mock interviews. The research on the company has been done. As an interviewee you know the company mission statement, last years profits and current goals. It's all done but that face to face interview and now it's time to decide what to wear? Is it a big deal? Yes.

For women, outdated or not, the best interviewing outfit is a skirted suit. The colors are still conservative, black, gray, and dark blue. A women can show a splash of personality with a colorful scarf. A powerful lapel pin is another good choice.

The length of the skirt should be conservative as well. It should be comfortable and long enough that the woman doesn't find herself adjusting and tugging at the skirt during the interview. Fussing with clothes is a definite negative in an interview situation.

The suit should be well tailored and comfortable to wear. Pay attention to the time of year and make sure the material is correct. No woman wants to be sweating excessively in an interview because of a heavy suit. If it's cold outside, wear a coat that can be removed upon entering the building.

The blouse should be white or cream. It should be fully buttoned and not shear. Think conservative with every step that is taken. Is all this sounding a little bland? The look the interviewer wants is professional. The unique style of an individual comes in the way they answer the interview questions.

Shoes are important. They need to match the suit. There are no open toe shoes for interviews. The heels on the shoes should be no higher than two inches, most guidelines suggest a one inch heel. It's best to have good leather shoes.

Stockings are a must and they should be flesh tone and fit properly.

Personal hygiene is important. If perfume is worn at all it should be very light. The hair should be styled in a business fashion and clean. If there are nervous habits like twisting hair make sure it is pulled back or up out of reach.

Be sure to drop by the restroom and do a check front and back right before the interview to make sure nothing has gone askew.

Conservative is the goal with the outfit, let your dynamic personality show through during the interview. It always better to be over dressed than under dressed. Pantsuits are acceptable, however, statics hold out the skirted suit is still the preferred option. Remember you are selling the whole package of goods to the prospective employer. You want to look and feel confident.

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