Interview outfit for working in a homeless shelter

[vanillamum]

I really want this job, went to see them today for a go-see. I wore skinnies, flat boots and tunic top-and fitted right in. Asked what dress code would be for the interview on Tuesday hoping it would be what I am wearing but was told "smart casual". WTF does that mean, can spend upto £60 on outfit but would rather it was less. I am 37, short, size 12 bum and size 8-10 top half.

[Gillybobs]

DO you have any tailored trousers you could wear with a blouse/top? I always think interview outfits should be slightly smarter than what you'd wear to actually do the job IYSWIM

[Guitargirl]

Smart trousers and well-ironed shirt.

[madhousewife]

agreed with the above, you have to look like you are making an effort for an interview. no jeans!!

good luck! hope you get the job!

[vanillamum]

Thanks everyone, I will have a rummage in my wardrobe-I have been at home with kids for six years and slowly all my clothes have become very casual or my funeral suit! I have only kept a few of my work wear stuff because they were expensive and now they are either 1)hopelessly out of date or 2} stretched beyond all recognition while I tried to disguise my pregnancy. I notice everyone has mentioned trousers, I was thinking of a dress and jacket, simply because I could wear it afterwards but do you think it is a bad idea?

[MillyR]

I think a semi-smart jacket is a good idea. I used to work in homelessness semi-casual clothes but had a tailored cord jacket to wear over the top. You then look casual for the clients but somewhat professional if you are speaking to someone official on the client's behalf. So I think if you bought a smartish jacket you would get wear out of it again at work.

[vanillamum]

Thanks everyone have a clearer idea now x

[giggly]

your funeral suit would be the best option.I managed a homeless unit and still expected folk to wear a suit for an interview.

[vanillamum]

Just wanted to thank everyone who helped me decide what to wear for this interview. I took your advice and at the interview I wore a trouser suit with a casualish shirt and bright green bloch ballet pumps.
Anyway, everyone on the interview panel was very casually dressed and without your advice I would have felt I had overdressed and been even more nervous. But because all you lovely mumsnet ladies had told me I was wearing the right thing I felt cool and confident and GOT THE JOB! So thank you xxx

[polyhymnia]

Congratulations!

[iWILLdothis]

Congratulations! :)