There are many ways to sell yourself at an interview apart from being able to verbally express your interest in a passionate manner or possessing substantial work experience. When you enter the interview room and greet the hiring manager, it’s always crucial to make a good first impression through your social demeanour and, of course, your appearance. Sure it is acknowledgeable to pull off a shirt and dress pants combo to an interview but sometimes it never hurts to go that extra mile to look a little superfluous than usual. As some would point out, “More is always better than less”. Upon reaching the gates of the fashion industry, looking fresh and stylish is imperative because it provides recruiters with a slender overview of your potential and how efficient you’re going to be in the field. This post lays out a few tips on how to maximize your outfit potential at an interview to help secure that position offer!
1. Layer your outfit
Apart from providing warmth, layering also adds extra spiff to an outfit. Cardigans, sweaters, and blazers are versatile pieces that may be worn in smart-casual and fancy occasions. Mixing and matching with these pieces will not only change the overall vibe of an outfit but also showcase the individual’s styling capabilities.
Shop the look: Merino Varsity V-Neck, $159.50, available at Club Monaco
2. Wear prints or other embellished pieces
To ensure that you’re creating a personal statement, wear printed or embellished clothes to boost your chic level. Floral shirts may be worn if you’re planning to layer. If florals are excessive, consider wearing striped or checkered tops. Embroidered pieces are also acceptable, however, one must be cautious as they could overwhelm an outfit. You may also consider wearing printed blazers or bottoms if you’re ambitious enough. Just remember to tone them down with basic pieces.
Shop the look: Noose & Monkey Smart Shirt with Floral Print, $91.71, available at ASOS
4. Carry a (portfolio) man clutch
It might also be practical to use a man clutch to carry your resume or other necessary documents. Not only does it look stylish, but it also keeps everything in place so you don’t have to worry about losing anything. You can even put your small personal belongings in there!
Shop the look: Studded Document Holder, $45.90, available at Zara
4. Learn how to colour or pattern coordinate
In general, proper suiting requires colour or pattern matching – typically the blazer and the pants. The shirt and shoes stand out on their own, contrasting with the outerwear and bottom wear. Proper colour or pattern coordination certainly makes an outfit glow allowing you to stand out amongst other candidates!
Shop the look: Blue Striped Suit Blazer & Pants, $199 & $99.90, available at Zara
Image inspiration:
Image courtesy of Adam Gallagher (@iamgalla)
Product info:
- Merino Varsity V-Neck, $159.50, available at Club Monaco
- Noose & Monkey Smart Shirt with Floral Print, $91.71, available at ASOS
- Studded Document Holder, $45.90, available at Zara
- Blue Striped Suit Blazer & Pants, $199 & $99.90, available at Zara
By: Franz Tabora, Mississauga, @phranzzzz
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