STYLE – HOW TO DRESS FOR A JOB INTERVIEW
Words: Charlie Thomas
When it comes to choosing what to wear for a specific event, it’s all about context and judging what you think might be appropriate within that particular environment. Some events are easy and even state the dress code for you whereas others are far trickier and demand more attention, thought and time to deliberate what it is you will choose to wear.
Job interviews certainly fall into that latter category and, as clothes are a large part of that all important first impression, it’s essential that you nail your outfit. Get your outfit right and you’ll come off as a professional, well-put together individual. Get it wrong however and you’ll appear as though you don’t care about the importance of the interview, which will come off as arrogant and self-centred, which are traits you don’t want your potential employer to see. To guide you through the minefield of dressing for a job interview, we’ve compiled some handy tips, so check them out and reap the benefits.
CLASSIC SIMPLICITY, , If you’re in any doubt whatsoever, just remember; it’s better to be over-dressed than under-dressed. For most job interviews you cannot go wrong with a slim, dark suit paired with simple accessories and a pair of well-polished black oxford shoes. For the most part you should avoid anything garish, loud or unnecessary as you want the focus to be on the cut of your suit (and your sparkling personality, of course). This Burberry London suit is perfect – note it’s slim, notch lapels, two button closure and classic single-vented back.
Burberry Blue Wool and Mohair-Blend Suit, £895 from Mr Porter // Paul Smith Signature Stripe Cuff Kensington Shirt, £105 from Paul Smith // Pantherella Gadsbury Pin-Dot Socks, £12 from Matches Fashion // John Lobb City II Leather Oxfords, £735 from Mr Porter // Drake’s London Silk Knitted Tie, £105 from Drakes
CREATIVE TWIST, , Despite being a great option for a wide variety of situations, the suit is not always the most appropriate choice. For those looking to enter a more creative environment, separate tailored pieces will make all the difference, especially when you carefully consider the finer details of your garments. The wider, peak lapels of the blazer add a touch of flair; the chambray fabric of the shirt gives off a relaxed disposition and the chunky brogues remove all formality associated with the classic style. This all combines to create an outfit that is less formal than the traditional suit, but no less dapper.
Brioni Slim-Fit Unstructured Cashmere Blazer, £3,700 from Mr Porter // Paul Smith Slim-Fit Cotton-Blend Trousers, £210 from Mr Porter // J.Crew Slim Japanese Chambray Shirt, £90 from J.Crew // Grenson Archie Tan, £210 from Grenson // Uniform Wares 152 Series, £220 from Uniform Wares
FAILSAFE SMART CASUAL
For some job interviews, even a blazer may be deemed too smart. The most casual of work environments call for more casual outfits, but that doesn’t mean you can rock up in tracksuit bottoms and a t-shirt. As always, fit is key and if you nail the classics, like this prep-inspired ensemble complete with gingham shirt and tassel loafers, you’ll like strike just the right balance between being well turned-out and being well-aware of the job role and your surroundings.
Incotex Four Season Slim-Fit Cotton-Blend Chinos, £190 from Mr Porter // John Smedley Kendal V-Neck Merino Wool Sweater, £135 from Mr Porter // Steven Alan Gingham Shirt, £110 from Matches Fashion // Russell & Bromley Keeble 3 Tassel Loafer, £185 from Russell & Bromley // Larson and Jennings, £215 from Liberty
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