Are shirts still necessary in today's business formal?

[Natalie9250]

I am told to wear business formal attire to an investment bank interview in London. Is a suit and a shirt still necessary in today's business formal?

Here's my planned outfit.
www.thomaspink.com/product/womens-multi-stripe-poplin-button-cuff-shirt/47100009B1B
www.tmlewin.co.uk/womens/workwear/milano-black-trouser-suit-52837S.html

In the investment banks I've worked, business formal for women tends to be a smart dress with a smart jacket. Suits (skirt or trouser) are considered a bit dated. I would steer away from a trouser suit for an interview at an investment bank.

Despite this, I think I really don't like skirts or dresses. I would rather wear suits and shirts. Are these acceptable?

That outfit is fine. Make sure your jewellery, makeup and nails are formally appropriate too.

I'm going to say that unless it's quite a hip investment bank or you are going for an entry level position you may want to consider a crisp white shirt. It may just be the photo but the poplin stripe looks a little 'soft drape' in the image. Be crisp.