Interview clothes

[MyStyleIsStale]

Hi all, long time lurker but really need help with this so here's my first post!

I've been invited to an interview for a graduate management scheme. I already work within the organisation (this will give me no advantage whatsoever) but in a completely different role, where I dress very informally. I've never had an interview that required anything other than vaguely clean clothes before. I really really want this scheme and I don't want to make a stupid error of judgement on clothing that could have been prevented!

I was thinking of wearing smart cropped black trousers with a tailored shirt (maybe blue? stripes??) Where can I get a really nice, well fitted structured shirt from? Shoes are some tan brogues - I assume I will need to take a suit jacket too? Or are cropped trousers a bit out of date now? Maybe should I go the whole hog and go and buy an actual suit?

I'm a size 8, 5'3. I'm 24 and I do look very young, so keen to avoid looking even younger. Knee length dresses sit badly on me. I'm completely open to suggestions - ideally don't want to spend more than £100 but would extend if I need to change the shoes too. Please dress me!

Grad scheme dress codes are formal. You aren’t competing internally you are competing with much younger external candidates too who may be getting coached through this by universities etc. Still to full length trousers / skirt, blouse, jacket, minimal make up etc.

You wouldn't go wrong with a suit,

I would go for a shift dress and heels

Hi Friedgreen. I'm definitely coming at this from the angle of competing externally (things would be much bloody easier if I was competing internally!) So I definitely need to be on the very formal side of businesswear? Buying a suit combo is probably my best option.

I was planning on minimal makeup, hair tied back into a simple bun, no nail varnish etc.

I have no frame of reference for this - might be a good idea to contact my university.

According to my friends who did this sort of scheme, everyone wears a full on corporate suit style outfit, either trousers and jacket or dress and jacket/smart cardigan.