Look the Part: Dressing for an Interview

Always dress professionally for an interview. When the interview is set up, ask your contact to kindly tell you about the dress code. While a skirt isn't essential, you can't go wrong in a suit or very well-coordinated separates. Showing up for an interview in a corporate setting while wearing a casual top and jeans may very well be a mark against you. Whether your suit is from Target or Rodeo Drive, be sure that it's clean and crisp.

When you're job-hunting, be prepared to meet a possible contact around any corner. You wouldn't want to miss an opportunity to introduce yourself to someone because you were dressed inappropriately. You don't have to walk around in a suit every day, but take on a business-casual look as the norm when you're looking for a job—even when you're not interviewing.

• Err on the side of conservatism but show some personality, especially at social events. This can be accomplished with a colorful scarf or jewelry.

• Choose clothes that fit and flatter your body type. Wear business clothes, not disco attire, to a networking event.

• Keep your hair neat, cut, and styled. A disheveled look will hurt your chances at the job.

• Wear daytime makeup: no heavy eyeliner or glitzy shadows. Lipstick is more flexible, but it is usually better to wear natural shades. Wear makeup that makes you feel beautiful, but not colors that are overpowering. Make sure that someone notices you, not your makeup. Keep fragrances to a minimum.

• Jewelry and accessories are your chance to express yourself. Wear jewelry that can serve as a conversation starter. When people pay you a compliment, you can offer the story of how you got it or where it came from.

Visit our Professional Dress section to read more Appearance Do's and Don'ts