Page 39 - Carlson School GBCC Career Guide

Business Formal (Interview Attire)
DRESS FOR SUCCESS
Suiting
• When selecting a suit, stick to formal and conservative styles and colors (dark or charcoal grey, black, navy). Your suit must consist of two matched pieces, made of the same fabric and of the same color.
• Consider having your suit fitted by a professional tailor. You will look and feel better if your suit fits your body perfectly and is comfortable when wearing it all day long.
• Pants and skirt suits are both acceptable. If wearing pants, the hem of your trouser should break at the top of your shoes. Skirt lengths should fall just a bit above or below the knee.
Suits and Shirts/Blouses
• Shirts should be long-sleeved, pressed, and fit well. White collared shirts and blouses portray the most professional and formal look, but any light neutral color is acceptable. A shirt with subtle, conservative stripes is also acceptable. An undershirt or camisole should always be worn.
Shoes and Socks/Hosiery
• Shoes should be black or brown and should be professional dress shoes. Go with classic styles and always darker than your suit. Shoes should be recently polished.
• If wearing heals, wear low-healed, closed-toe shoes in neutral colors such as black, navy, or brown leather. Make sure you can walk comfortably in your shoes.
• Socks should be dark and neutral, never white. Ideally, they should match the color of your pants.
• Hosiery should be plain (no patterns), sheer (not opaque), and neutral in color to match your suit.
Accessories
• If you carry a handbag or briefcase, make sure it is in good condition and looks professional. Leather is recommended in black, navy, brown, or another neutral color.
• Select quality ties and avoid fashion extremes. The tip of the tie should touch the top of the belt buckle. Bow ties are generally not appropriate for interviews.
• Always wear a dress belt that matches your shoes in color.
• Don't wear excessive jewelry. A nice watch and/or ring
are fine. If you have visible piercings (other than ears), you should consider removing these prior to an interview. Take the conservative approach until you find out more about the company’s workplace culture.
Grooming
• Avoid too much of anything—makeup, perfume/cologne, jewelry. Colognes and perfumes are discouraged in many workplace settings.
• Hair should always be neat. Tie long hair back if it will be distracting.
• If you wear a beard, it should be short and neat. Be sure to shave your neck.
• Keep hands and nails well groomed. Avoid extremes for nail length and polish color.
• Consider concealing tattoos.
• Avoid smoking before an interview. It is a good idea to have breath mints on hand, but never chew gum.
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Frequently Asked Questions
37 Carlson School of Management