Sharp suit for interview - where would you look?

[EvaHarknessRose]

Its a big if, but if I get an interview for a scheme I am working towards applying for I am going to need to dress well. I am confident I am well qualified and am ++working on preparing my specialist knowledge, but I am also realistic and first impressions matter.

I want to look at least a bit modern/current as I will be up against a lot of young graduates and its not the sort of thing where gravitas or experience will necessarily work in my favour. Its a science based role.

I am thinking suit - I am envisioning a trouser suit but in reality a dress and jacket would probably work better for me. I am a curvy 16 and have got about as fit and trim as I am likely to get. Short ‘nipped in’ jackets tend to work best for me. I need shirts or blouses that don’t gape. Budget up to £200 but I really shouldn’t spend that much ideally. Will probably wear heeled boots.

Any advice on where to try? I have some time so can wait for sales.

Oh god m+S all the way.

I am envisioning this kind of thing daiwear.com/product/trail-blazer-black/ but that’s not my price range and won’t work for my figure.

Really? Ok I will browse

OK yes that does look promising - lots of nice blazers reasonably priced

Dress and jacket sounds much more modern than a suit. All the CEOs and directors I've dealt with in the past few years avoid suits.

I definitely wouldn't wear heeled boots though, they would look unprofessional to my eye. I'm not sure where is good to shop for curvy ladies though sorry.

Reiss?

Ah, ok. I just struggle with heeled shoes and feel like I don’t want to wear flats. Will think on it though. Will check out Reiss but think they are above my price range.

I'd be looking on ASOS if you're after something trend led with the right shape. They also have a 'curve' range as well as a fuller bust range if you need one.Trouser co-ords are reasonably in at the moment as are blazers and trousers so you could put together a nice outfit. Or find a suitable dress and and add a blazer.
Otherwise NEXT? They're pretty reliable for more generic workwear.
How corporate do you need to be?
I think it's important with these things to dress in what makes you feel good ultimately.

I find Reiss very straight up and down, no room for hips. Beautiful clothes though.

If you're not great with heels a smart loafer or low block heel would work. I don't tend to wear heels either.

Reiss is very expensive and they don't do size 16 bitter voice of experience
Jigsaw do lovely trouser suits, a bit above your budget but worth it. Good luck

m.marksandspencer.ie/mt/www.marksandspencer.ie/Wide-Fit-Block-Heel-Court-Shoes/P60194183,en_IE,pd.html?dwvar_P60194183_color=Y1&start= these are nice and look reasonably comfortable

They are nice watchingthetelly - I might pop over and try some on, thanks.

Thanks for the ideas, I have some browsing to do and then hopefully some shopping

If it’s in budget, John Lewis personal shopping is great. They do some expensive brands but their own brands aren’t as bad.

Tailoring really helps - you might find a jacket you love that’s slightly loose, getting it tailored to fit perfectly will make it look a lot more expensive.

Supermarket brands can be really good - hit and miss but worth a look given how cheap they are.

m.marksandspencer.ie/mt/www.marksandspencer.ie/Drape-3/4-Sleeve-Shift-Midi-Dress/P60108119,en_IE,pd.html?dwvar_P60108119_color=Y0&start=

This dress is very simple but looks figure flattering and would just need a really sharp blazer.

I do think a an elegant pair of trousers, blouse and jacket would be lovely though. Eg, black trouser, cream silk blouse, boucle or check jacket. Definitely wait for the sales if you can!

A Jaeger outlet shop

TM Lewin

Diva Catwalk

M&S suit, plain v neck t-shirt, lace up or slip on brogues. And hair (if it is long) in a low ponytail or bun.

Personally I would avoid Next suits as they seem to be poor quality and erratic sizing.

Following!

Watchingthetelly funnily enough - earlier I decided to order the shoes you linked and added a few other bits including that dress! And a blazer. Will see what fits well as they are all such wardrobe staples and return the rest. Thanks

As you can see I am not very good at waiting (as my bank balance shows,)