What to Wear to a Job Interview

In these days of office casual, casual Fridays, and the occasional headline that declares "The Suit is Back!" it can be confusing to put together the right outfit. Just remember that this will be your only opportunity to make a good first impression. This will be your first, and maybe only, chance to show them what you look like AT YOUR BEST. In this case, formality rules. Wear the best you have. For men, that's a dark, clean, well pressed suit, a white shirt and perfectly knotted tie in a solid color, such as navy blue or deep red. For women, it's a suit, a no-frills blouse (white is best), hose and tasteful jewelry. These clothes show your respect for the occasion. They say "I want to work for you!" Men, nix any earrings. Women, nix any earrings accept small, tasteful ones worn in your earlobes (one earring per lobe).

And, of course, before you put on all these beautiful clothes, take a shower, wash your hair and style it conservatively, wear deodorant and brush your teeth. Trim your nails. Avoid colognes or perfumes. There are plenty of people with perfume allergies that cause nausea and headaches; your interviewer could be one of them.

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