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Interview clothes help

14 replies

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 07:43

What do women wear for interviews nowadays? I'm a size 10 in the petite range and definitely do not wear heels trying to avoid falling over walking into the interview room I don't like flashing my legs so they're usually covered in trousers or midi skirts/dresses.

This is definitely the most professional organisation I've interviewed at, previously I've worn jacket, shirt and trousers but not a suit. I've wfh past 2 yrs so have been wearing casual clothes. Going forward, if I get the job I will have to update my wardrobe to smart but not corporate.

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TheWholeWorld · 26/11/2021 07:46

Dress and a non matching jacket?

I'm going for an interview today and I'm wearing a navy dress with white polka dots from Hobbs with a loose white jacket - my old faithful from m&s and a pair of silver brogues. The shoes might be a bit much but they're comfortable and at least I'll be memorable 😆

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 07:54

Thank you for replying. The dress sounds lovely, I have a black midi white star print dress with one of those long ribbon neck ties. I don't have a jacket anymore so will have to buy one. I'll need a jacket for future interviews so which colour jacket? Black or navy seems most universal but can I wear black & white print dress with a navy jacket? Black would be better and more versatile! My head aches!

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RestingStitchFace · 26/11/2021 07:55

I think formal trousers and a smart shirt would be fine. If you don't like heels then go for ballet pumps, loafers or oxfords.

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 07:58

@RestingStitchFace

I think formal trousers and a smart shirt would be fine. If you don't like heels then go for ballet pumps, loafers or oxfords.
Will I need a jacket as I don't want to freeze!
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SmallProvincial · 26/11/2021 07:59

I'd wear a smart/tailored long or 3/4 sleeve dress in a plain colour (probably black) + a trench coat (which I'd take off, obvs). I'd wear it with black tights and brogues.

I oft n get slightly unusual tailored dresses from Cos (as is the Mumsnet norm it seems).

Basic rule of thumb, cotton or other stretchy is too casual (for me, for an interview) so I'd aim for crepe material.

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 08:05

Thank you, these replies are very helpful. I'm finding it difficult to gauge what to wear as my last interview was a while ago.

I have a Boden midi length dress in heavy cotton Jersey with cap sleeves. I usually wear for funerals and very formal occasions with a wrap jacket. Is this is too casual?

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TheWholeWorld · 26/11/2021 09:03

The Boden dress might be ok. Like PP I'd be wary of anything stretchy as less formal but it depends on the cut really. For your black midi dress I'd either wear a black jacket or a white one. Navy won't go.

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 12:08

Thanks for your feedback. I've gone for black jacket and trousers with a thin white merino polo neck or shirt. Haven't decided on which one yet, as its quite chilly where I am. I can't relax if I'm cold, otherwise I could wear a thermal vest under the shirt.

Now footwear, I've nothing formal anymore just a collection of trainers and boots. So I have to buy shoes, brogues or lace ups? Do you wear socks underneath, my toes will freeze! See how out of touch I am!

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emma6776 · 26/11/2021 20:02

I’m an HR adviser and interview a lot. Any of the outfits you mention will be grand. I certainly wouldn’t buy anything new. Good luck!

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 20:56

Thank you. I went shopping for shoes today & didn't find anything that I liked or that would go with my trousers. I'm going to wear the interview trousers tomorrow when I go out shopping! This way I can see what fits and suits the style of the trousers.

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CMOTDibbler · 26/11/2021 21:01

I bought a beautiful bright pink tailored, structured top from The Fold for the job I am currently interviewing for (4 interviews and another to come) which is very smart but not stuffy

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 21:03

Ooh that sounds really nice. Off for a Google. Thanks. I suit deep jewel colours like Ruby, burgundy, teal and turquoise.

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CMOTDibbler · 26/11/2021 21:12

It was this one

Welcometothejingles · 26/11/2021 21:20

That's gorgeous. I've put it on my birthday list for next year. Thank you.

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