Another interview one - arts based organisation

[worldgonecrazy]

I need help. I haven't had an interview for decades, and my current employer is very much smart jeans/nice blouse wear, so I haven't bought a suit in decades either (and aren't suits very much last century?) The "smart business" clothes that I did own were sent to the charity shop a few years ago. I own one "day dress" which is a wrap over black/blue/purple print and is used for funerals, weddings and lunches at posh restaurants and is probably a bit too informal for an interview.

So my question is: what would you wear for an interview for a financial/back office role in an arts-based organisation? If I can get a few hints and tips I can probably pull something together and pay a visit to TK Maxx or the High Street for anything I'm missing.

Help!

[pseudonymity]

Look at the looks in Cos

[worldgonecrazy]

Thanks - they're not really my style, or am I looking at the wrong thing? I just see a lot of A-line garments?

[MitzyLeFrouf]

I work in the arts. People definitely don't dress as formally for interviews as they do for a more corporate environment. Some people even wear jeans to interview although personally I find that a bit too casual.

Definitely no Next style business suit. Trousers and a smart-ish top is what I'd go for.

[worldgonecrazy]

Thank you Mitzy. I think I need to go for something in between because though it's the arts sector, it's still back office/finance stuff.

[pseudonymity]

Ha ha, yes it is a bit A line! Cos is known as arts clothes (I'm in arts). The dress would probably be fine tbh. It's about what you feel confident in for interview isn't it.

[OnlyLovers]

I think the dress would be fine, too. I'd wear it for an interview at my place (I work not in the arts but in education, 'back office' kind of role, so quite similar).

If you want to be a bit smarter then TK Maxx/Zara/Uniqlo might have a button-up shirt dress type thing?

[MitzyLeFrouf]

worldgonecrazy I'm behind the scenes too.

Our artistic director (when new) asked me in general befuddlement why the finance team dressed quite corporate in style when everyone else dressed as they pleased.

It seems to be ingrained in finance bods to feel they should look more formal and conservative than everyone else.

Our finance team now dresses in the same style as everyone else.

[SquadGoals]

I'd wear a black shift dress with bare legs/tights and ankle boots.

Something like this

Wallis also have something similar with zip pockets and a big sale on at the moment.

[herecomesthsun]

I like the black dress esp if you are happy with above the knee. I would prob wear with a scarf as I need colour near my face these days, nice ones at tk maxx.

[worldgonecrazy]

Thank you all - I got the job, and your advice definitely helped me feel more confident at the interview!

[OnlyLovers]

Well DONE, OP! but what we really want to know is what did you wear