What to Wear to a Job Interview in the Fashion I

When Corporate Attire is too Formal, but Jeans are Not Enough

Jun 14, 2009

Going for a job interview is tough at the best of times. Presenting yourself to a prospective employer for any perfect job is hair-raising and nerve racking.

Finding something to wear to a job interview is difficult. A suit is normally your best choice, but what if the job you have managed to get an interview for is in the fashion industry? What do you wear; the variables in this situation are diverse. Do you go for the latest trends? Do you wear "the label" top to toe? Or do you go conservatively and dress in the suit?

The answer is a grey area. But there are a few rules that can help you dress appropriately for the interview. Here are some ideas on suitable outfits.

The Label

Often women going for an interview for a chain store assume that wearing all the latest trends from the most recent collection is a sure-fire way to show they are dedicated and serious about the position. But extreme all-over label can scream fashion victim. Choose one piece, maybe an accessory, and base your outfit for the interview around that. It might be a simple shirt with a statement necklace from this season's range, or a scarf from their accessories line tied to your handbag.

To Suit or Not to Suit

Wearing a suit to an interview for a fashion position can appear bland and uninteresting. Take the skirt or pants, and try a more softly creative top. Get to know the store or designer's fashion esthetic, and dress in a similar manner. Aim for slightly more conservative, as this wins hands down over all-out fashionable.

The Store

Spend some time in the store, getting to know the pieces and other ranges, like jewellery, sunglasses, shoes and bags. Have a look at their website, do research on other locations, their lines and history of the store. They may have photos of employees, so check out what they are wearing. Calling HR or head office asking for advice is easier and less embarrassing than coming to the interview dressed inappropriately.

Streamlining

Keeping the look simple and fuss-free is always more elegant than trying to appear fashionable. You need to look as though you know how to work with clothes and you know how to dress well. If you can show you can do this, points will be in your favour. Make up still needs to natural and minimal, there will be plenty of time for dramatic eyeliner and deep red lips when you start the job.

Suitable Outfits

A job or career in fashion is not just about the fashion. It is about knowing how to put outfits together, how to make the most of your assets and keeping up to date with the latest trends. Possible outfits could include the following:

Try to avoid jeans, no matter how casual the position you are being interviewed for. Keep the high fashion stakes tamed at the interview, and once you get the job, you can go to town with dressing with all the latest trends.

The copyright of the article What to Wear to a Job Interview in the Fashion I in Women's Work Wear is owned by Jo Barrett-Lennard. Permission to republish What to Wear to a Job Interview in the Fashion I in print or online must be granted by the author in writing.