Career Services

Finding a Job: Dress for Success

First impressions are everything. Don't let what you wear affect your presentation to others. You want to sell yourself. Show off your professional side with your appearance.

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PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE: WOMEN

DO:
  • Wear a business suit, pants or skirt, but always include a matching jacket
  • Make sure that your skirt is no more than 2 inches above your knee
  • Choose conservative hosiery at or near skin color
  • Make sure that you are neat and clean with hair nicely groomed

Hint: Try on your outfit BEFORE the day of the interview and get someone else's advice.
DON'T

Clothing to Avoid:

  • Mini skirts and dresses
  • Low cut dress blouses, belly shirts - even if under a jacket, sweatshirts, or t-Shirts
  • Jeans, any denim, or cargo pants

Shoe Apparel to Avoid:

  • Never wear sandals or any open-toed shoes
  • Avoid sneakers entirely and shoes that have more than a 2 inch heel
  • Never have runs in your hosiery (bring an extra pair with you)

Avoid Accessories That Seek Attention:

  • Cover up any tattoos and take out any multiple piercings
  • Avoid dangling and excessive jewelry
  • Use perfume and make-up sparingly
  • Do not bring a purse, small or large; carry a suitcase/portfolio instead
  • If you wear nail polish (not required), use clear or a conservative color

PROFESSIONAL ATTIRE: MEN

DO:
  • Wear a business suit with a button down dress shirt and a tie
  • Shirt and tie alone is not acceptable.
  • Dark shoes that match your socks
  • Make sure that you are neat and clean with hair nicely groomed.
  • Make sure that you are clean-shaven, and if you must have a mustache have it neatly trimmed.

Hint: Try on your outfit BEFORE the day of the interview and get someone else's advice.
DON'T:

Clothing to Avoid:

  • Jeans, any other denim, sweatshirts, and t-shirts
  • Sneakers, boots, casual shoes, and white socks

Avoid Accessories That Seek Attention:

  • Remove any piercings
  • Cover up any tattoos
  • Limit jewelry and cologne

BUSINESS CASUAL

Always dress in a suit even if you know the environment of the company and/or occasion is business casual. Only dress in business casual when specifically stated.

Business casual has a different definition depending on the company. If you're unsure of what to wear, look at your peers or your supervisors. Make sure you always look nice and clean. Here is a list of examples.

WOMEN:
  • Slacks; never wear jeans!
  • Nice sweater
  • Same quality in shoes as business professional
  • If a skirt suit is the norm you can wear slacks instead
  • No jacket necessary
MEN

Corporate Casual:

  • No jacket
  • Tailored slacks
  • Long sleeve shirt
  • Tie - optional

Business Casual:

  • Khakis
  • Long sleeve shirt (blue or conservative stripe)
  • 3 button polo style shirt with or without sweater
  • Denim shirt
  • Always shave and wear leather shoes and matching belt.

Hint: Some companies have shirts with their logo embroidered on the shirt (this would be acceptable and is sometimes the 'uniform' for business casual workdays.)