Nearly every job in every organization has its dress code. Often the code is unspoken, and a veneer of permissiveness can mislead an applicant. Don't believe what others may be paying lip service to; instead, notice what people in jobs comparable to or higher than yours actually wear.
If you are still uncertain, dress more on the conservative side than flamboyantly or according to what happens to be the current fad. Your clothing should not detract from the desired focus on your professional credentials. Women's styles in business clothing are more flexible now than they were 15 or so years ago, when a mannish look was almost expected of a woman who wanted to get ahead. However, it might be better to gather fashion ideas from Working Woman than from Cosmopolitan. These tips will help you dress appropriately:
Attire
All clothing should be tailored and businesslike, never revealing. Unless you can afford a new wardrobe every season, avoid faddish colors and styles that might soon become outdated.
Blends of Dacron or polyester with wool, linen, or cotton wear best in a work environment. They are least likely to show wrinkles, and look the best when worn. Fabrics such as silk and 100 percent polyester tend to cling and call undue attention to themselves. Avoid most leathers and suede, because they tend to ride up. Ultra suede is an exception.
Blouses and shirts should complement your suit and should also be conservative—either solids or simple patterns. Avoid sheer fabrics. A blend of cotton and polyester or Dacron - tends to wear best. Women have several options provided they remain within the code. They can wear suits, dresses, coordinates, skirts and blazers or, if tasteful, skirts and blouses. Avoid slacks and pantsuits. If you choose to wear a sweater, make certain it has a businesslike look. A skirt should reach slightly below the knees when you stand so you are appropriately modest when you sit—even in a low or deep chair.
Men need to wear suits even though dressy blazers may be acceptable once you are hired. Although vests can be attractive, keep in mind that they tend to make people look heavier. Forget leisure suits, even if they do happen to be in style.
Men's trousers should be long enough to break slightly at the crease. Men should wear long-sleeved shirts even if every other man is wearing short-sleeved ones. For a first appearance, sleeves look better than hairy arms—or even wrists, since you should be wearing a jacket (barring a temperature of more than 80 degrees in the office, of course).
Fabrics a blend of worsted and synthetic fabric will hold up best under most circumstances. Stay away from 100 percent polyester and other all-synthetics. Shirts and blouses should be conservative. For men, oxfords and button-downs convey a traditional look and remain in style. Your tie or scarf should be made of 100 percent silk, period. Color and Patterns Wear the lighter shades in warm weather, the darker in cold weather. Muted pinstripes, herringbones, and checks are acceptable.
Women should choose neutral colors such as navy and other blues, black, all shades of brown, and the full spectrum of grays. Stay away from bright reds and greens, yellows, or oranges. Men should select one of the broad spectrums of blues or grays. Browns tend to rank low in status in men's clothing, and greens are out of the question. Suits may be solid, muted pinstripe, subtle plaid, or a small check or herringbone.
Shirts and blouses can be white, pastel blue, or cream. Solids and pinstripes are generally appropriate for most business situations. Accessories should generally be pale blue or gray, with burgundy ties, scarves, or shawls (if tasteful). Ties and scarves can be solid, paisley, striped, or patterned, but they should be conservative and they should complement your overall appearance. Subdued patterns are appropriate for both men and women.
Shoes Men should wear black shoes. Women's shoes can be black, brown, burgundy, or any other color that accessorizes well with their outfits—lighter shades are appropriate in warm weather. White or patent leather (black) may also be appropriate, depending upon the season and locale. Avoid trendy colors and patterns in footwear.
Your shoes should be made of leather. They should be conservative and should reflect good taste. Men should pay particular attention to whether their peers and superiors generally wear dress slip-ons, lace ups, solids, or wing tips.
Women should avoid overly high heels. Their shoes should be closed at the toe and heel regardless of the season or the current fashion. Some executives look askance at people who would run through mud and slush in semi bare feet. Which makes another point: Wear appropriate boots or rubbers over your shoes in bad weather.
Hosiery - Men should wear socks high enough to keep their legs from being exposed when they sit with their legs crossed. Women's stockings should be sheer, seamless, and in solid skin tones—no patterns. Women would be wise to carry extra stockings to avoid appearing in public with runs.
Jewelry - Keep jewelry and other adornments simple and in good taste. Wear nothing that dangles, flashes, or might otherwise distract an interviewer or call attention to itself. Use few pieces—one ring per hand—and wear the highest quality that would be appropriate in a business setting. Do not wear items that identify you with fraternal or other organizations. Avoid cufflinks even if they happen to be in style. Some people regard them as affectations for office wear.
Accessories - Your accessories, such as briefcase and pen, must be of top quality. Never carry plastic pens or pocket liners for pens. For women, an accent scarf, if conservative, can be an attractive accessory when worn correctly. Briefcases should be made of leather, reflect top quality, and have an executive look. Don't wear sunglasses or lenses that darken in bright light. People must see your eyes if they are to believe you.
Women's purses should be made of leather and should coordinate with their shoes. Keep purses small but functional. Although debates continue over whether to carry a purse if you are carrying a briefcase, here's the practical side of the matter: Women's business clothing does not have as many pockets as men's clothing has. You'll probably want to carry both a purse and your briefcase. Just be sure you can carry both comfortably.
Regarding the cliche question of "How do you shake hands if both your hands have something in them?" either sling your purse over your shoulder or set your briefcase down. You might also leave your purse in a secure place with the receptionist before you go into the interview.
