The Secrets to a Successful Job Interview - Fashion School Tips For What to Wear

Preparing for a job interview can be stressful. Besides anticipating all the questions they're going to ask you, there's also the matter of what you're going to wear. And according to employment recruiters, how you dress is just as important as how you answer the interview questions. The good news is there are some simple rules for appropriate interview attire. Just follow these tips from fashion school experts, and you'll be dressed for success. 1. Know your industry. The most important rule is to dress appropriately for the job for which you're applying. Even though some job recruitment manuals might insist you wear a conservative suit or dress, you will look out of place (and a bit stuffy) if you're interviewing in a creative workplace like a dotcom, graphic design studio, or fashion design company. Likewise, dressing with creative flair will scare off recruiters at more buttoned down businesses. Do your homework and find out what the corporate culture is like, so you'll fit right in. 2. It's better to overdress than underdress. Given that you understand the corporate culture, it's still important to look your best. For example, even if everyone at your prospective workplace wears jeans and t-shirts you should still step it up in the style department. Men can add a sport coat and dress shoes to any casual ensemble for a more polished look; and women can look professional with a stylish top, sweater, or blazer no matter how laid back the work environment is. Remember, putting some effort into your interview attire shows that you care about the job, and that you respect the interviewer. 3. Have your clothes tailored. Nothing says, "This is the first time I've ever looked for a job" than showing up in a baggy, ill-fitting suit or blazer. Keep in mind that most suits need to be altered. The sleeves usually have to be taken in, and the back or sides might need a little tapering. So find yourself a tailor and have him make you look like a million bucks. Women who choose to wear a dress could also use a trip to the tailor. Whatever you wear - a suit, a shirt and slacks, a dress, anything - an impeccable fit is a professional fit. 4. Don't flash status or money. A job interview is not a time to show how expensive your wardrobe is. Clothes that broadcast luxury fashion design labels run the risk of making you look like you're privileged and may not need the job. You also don't want to intimidate your interviewer and make him or her think you're a spoiled trust fund baby. So leave the Versace runway dress and Fendi bag at home. And save them for the office holiday party. 5. Remember the deal breakers. There are a host of no-no's that might seem insignificant to you, but can instantly derail your interview before it even starts. Do not wear overpowering perfume, cologne, or aftershave. Do not wear too much jewelry. Don't show too much skin, and that goes for both men and women; no interviewer wants to see your chest hair or cleavage. Don't wear sneakers, even in creative environments. And don't wear too much make up. Your job interview is the time for you to shine. So let your wardrobe be the advantage that helps you land the job. If you always know the appropriate wardrobe for any occasion, then a career in fashion design might be right for you. Visit FIDM, Fashion design school for more info.