Help - what to wear for interviews???

[Monroe]

I am currently applying for jobs and looking for work after being a childminder for the last 3 years.

My work wardrobe consists of anything I don't mind getting dribble/paint/food/mud on so I obviously need to update it!

It's been a long time since I wore anything "work smart"

I am planning on going shopping next week. My budget isn't great but I'm hoping to start with a few key pieces for interviews and build it up.

Any tips on what to wear / invest in?

I need everything from shoes to bag to accessories. In fact, can one of you just be my personal shopper and come with me as I am rubbish at this

I am very nervous about it all but I'm hoping if I look the part it will boost my confidence a bit

What sort of jobs are you going for?

How small is your budget?

And what size/shape/colouring are you?

The jobs will be in the training / few sector.

I'm 39, size 12, 5 foot 8, pale skin, red hair.

See, I wouldn't have even thought to mention any of that. Told you I am rubbish at this!

F.e. sector, not few

Budget wise, definitely more high street than designer.

Thank you

I bought this recently for an interview in FE www.marksandspencer.com/colour-block-tunic-shift-dress/p/p22314523 (didn't get it he job, but didn't look out of place with the other candidates). I notice your quite a bit taller than me, (I'm 5,1) so might come up short though

A dress like this could work well.

I'd get a jacket which could be used with a few outfits... Will look

This is gorgeous and would look good with a cropped jacket.

choco I like that dress, that style/shape suits me well but yes I would be worried it could be quite short on me. I will certainly look out for it and try it on.

tethers that first dress is lovely and just my colour too but it is out of stock in my size.

The second link says product no longer available?

And thank you both, it is really helpful to get ideas of what to look for.

What type of jacket would you recommend? Ideally I would need a jacket, shoes and bag that I can use with a number of outfits like tethers suggested.

I would go for a shortish grey blazer that can be put with black, grey, navy, purple and white workwear. Simple black heels and smart handbag.

Try second link again- Hobbs Mabel dress

grey blazer

Being in FE means you afford to experiment with colour a bit:

pink skirt

beige top

green blazer

Would work well together

(Sorry for separate posts, iPad losing links!)

This is a fantastic shaped jacket which would work well with most dresses and skirts.

Thanks, got it this time. Very smart and I like the length too.

Particularly with the mabel dress.

great dress! absolute bargain

All lovely ideas, thank you. I really like both jackets too but think the skirt is out of my price range unfortunately.

I will definitely need a bag too. Something practical but that is smart enough for interviews. I really appreciate everyone taking the time to look for these things for me