Long-time SAHM needs to look smart for an interview - help!

[HeisenbergsHat]

I've been a SAHM for 9 years and now am in need of a job. I have 2 interviews on Monday - one as a receptionist, one as a (trainee) legal secretary. I have many, many pairs of jeans and the odd sundress - nothing smart enough for an interview though. I will have approximately 2 hours to myself in a shopping centre on Sunday to buy something. Can anyone help?
I'm thinking skirt & blouse or a dress and I'll need some smart shoes. Can I get away without a jacket or will I look like I haven't made enough effort?

I would get a black dress.

I like this one from Next, but they don't have it available immediately in my size. Has anyone seen anything similar?

I did a whole post then saw it was for a legal secretary!! You will need to wear a suit. I have a friend who works in law, and they are quite fussy about it.

This whole outfit would work well and is still from next.

www.next.co.uk/x5346s9#650660x53

Shoes wise most people just wear ballet flats these days, and you can get a smart pair from new look for about twelve quid, but otherwise you could get a pair from nine west like this:

www.ninewest.com/Izabela-Mid-Heel-Pumps/7892428,default,pd.html?variantSizeClass=&variantColor=JJ2QRE6_1&cgid=8346252&prefn1=catalog-id&prefv1=ninewest-catalog

Whatever you do don't buy something in linen (it will be too creased) and avoid pale colours for suits, which look more casual. Don't go for big or fussy jewellery. Basically you want your clothes to stand out as least as possible!!

Good luck with the interviews!!!

Thanks kay I'm so nervous! It's over 10 years since I had a job interview.

I wasn't sure if a legal secretary would be expected to wear a suit, was hoping I could get away with not needing a jacket since that tends to be the most expensive bit. The next one is a reasonable price but it's sold out in my size unfortunately.

I've got some black patent loafers (flat) which I could wear - they'll be easier to walk in than heels.