Sunday, November 16, 2008

Article: Return Of Interview Suit {what to wear?}

"Thanks!" to Laura1 (in this post) and HelloAlison (in this post), who shared with us an interesting article (click here to read in its entirety) about what women should wear (suit-wise) to interviews. J.Crew's Jenna Lyons also weighs in on this topic.

The Return of the Interview Suit
By Eric Wilson

November 12, 2008


...figuring out what exactly is the modern day “interview suit” is not so easy to do without looking like Melanie Griffith. Walking downtown the other day, the designer Nicole Miller noticed an attractive young woman who was headed toward Wall Street. The woman was wearing a gray pantsuit, which caught the designer’s eye because, for much of the last decade, corporate fashion has pulled so far away from the polished, two-piece look that the outfit, while professional, seemed dated.
“I hadn’t seen anybody in a pantsuit for so long that I thought it looked wrong,” Ms. Miller said. ...

“We are back to a time when every company expected both women and men to wear suits and we didn’t have a Casual Friday,” said Gloria Mirrione, a managing director of A-L Associates, a financial services placement firm. “They are looking for a sharper style. I recommend a strong suit that says you are collected and ready to work.”

Still, there are a lot of possibilities for error, and even fashion professionals differ in their opinions about what style will make the best impression. For example, on the great debate of pants versus skirt, Simon Kneen, the creative director of Banana Republic, had this advice: “I would definitely go with a pantsuit because that gives a better silhouette.” Ms. Miller said the opposite: “I’m really against pants. They look too casual in most situations.”


Who to believe? There isn’t always a right answer, but each decision an applicant makes — pants or skirt, bright color or neutral, heels or flats — sends a subtle message that may play a role in how she will be perceived in an interview. To relieve some of that pressure, designers and career counselors offered some points to consider when deciding what to wear.


...Jenna Lyons Mazeau, the creative director of J. Crew, said a pencil skirt or tailored trousers, worn with a simple cardigan (preferably cashmere) and a beautiful necklace, looks as sophisticated as a pantsuit. A more individualized look is also a modern way to approach an interview, she said, suggesting that the applicant is creative, free-thinking and confident. But it also depends on the field, and the sportswear ensemble look may be best suited to creative fields. For corporate interviews, the options are still slim, and usually require a suit of some sort.


...But color can be a tough call. The majority of human resources professionals recommend wearing the classics — navy, black or gray — but, then again, playing it safe can also run the risk of looking too uniform.

"To me, the most important thing is give people something to remember," Lyons Mazeau said. "There's going to be a lot of people out there competing for a job, so pick a color, as opposed to wearing all gray." But no brights, she said, and "if you are a blonde, pinks can look less expensive. This is not about wearing a neon sign."

Earthier colors, like brown or a rich blue, impart a distinctive personality without coming off as overpowering. But beware of pastels: "I think that lightly colored suits, unless they are absolutely perfect, can feel a little Eastery," she said. ...

I often wonder what to wear to an interview (or presentation) that portrays a sharp business sense. I always end up gravitating towards a black pantsuit, but now I am starting to wonder if I should be wearing a skirt (and if black is the right color at all). :)

What are your thoughts on the article? What do you recommend (outfit-wise) as your go-to "interview suit"? Do you prefer to wear pants or skirts?

83 comments:

  1. Great topic, Alexis.
    You do an amazing job of feeling the pulse of someone's comment and seeing the potential for discussion!

    Coming across a suit from Ann Taylor that I wore to a job interview a few years ago, I was sad to see how I might look like a slightly cooler version of Colonel Sanders if I wore it these days. To donate something I wore ONCE might kill me, but I know it will just hang collecting dust.

    My suit is not a classic dark, but if yours is, no problem. It's all in the details. A fabulous bag, colorful scarf accent somewhere, statement(yet classy) jewelry, can all bring those blocky, dark suits into a current setting. Imagine a charcoal suit updated with the black striped Victoria and one of the glazed leather/patent bags they have. Add some amazing printed heels like the Carmen light pewter peep toes, and chic (not fried chicken) will be the lasting impression. Great.

    Just some suggestions!

    ReplyDelete
  2. My interview suit is a navy pantsuit (J crew I might add!) and I wear it with a V neck paisley top from Ann Taylor. Its not the traditional white shirt so it makes me feel less dated. Even though it is paisley (with dark pinks)- It is not too loud (or too low) as it is mostly hidden beneath the jacket. It really complements my coloring. I wear a simple necklace with a small pendant on it. I think its still important to wear something that fits you well and also the color must flatter you so that you can have the confidence you need in the interview.

    I've been looking at the J crew catalogs for ideas. I saw they paired a Jackie cardigan with their suits. I never thought of that before. I have several Jackies that probably look good with navy so I may try that next time!

    What is ironic about my field is that you still have to wear a suit to the interview but after that, the dress is business casual and you'd never be caught dead in a matching suit. Most people can spot an interview candidate because they are wearing a suit! Still, I've heard that people appreciate the suit because it shows that you "dressed up" for the occasion.

    ReplyDelete
  3. I haven't interviewed since college (been with the same company ever since) but I do have to wear suits to presentations, sales meetings, etc. I work in a mostly male field, so I tend to stick with pants. My suits are mostly dark colored, with a little "embellishment" (pinstripe, etc). I usually pair with a bright top or something fun, just to still feel feminine while wearing that pantsuit.

    I think back when I did interview for this job, I wore a black skirt suit with a pink button down. Seemed to work!

    ReplyDelete
  4. I don't get the blond with pink thing looking cheap. Does that mean blondes should never wear pink because it makes the clothes look cheap?

    ReplyDelete
  5. the past few successful interviews i've had (successful meaning that i got the job), i wore suit pants and a sweater in a shade of blue. black and blue, with silver or gold jewelry is classic enough while still not being a complete suit look. of course we all know it's about feeling confident in whatever you're wearing...

    ReplyDelete
  6. I wear a suit only for extremely formal occasions, so I go all-out. I usually wear my J.crew navy pinstripe skirt suit. It's dark, formal, and a nice alternative to black. During the winter, I wear a turtleneck underneath, and pair it with knee-high boots. It's a bit unusual, but works in my field. During the spring/summer. I wear black pumps, and an "interesting" blouse (something like the Victoria--with neck and collar details). I try to go for unique, but understated details: for example, a small silver ring that's shaped a pussywillow branch on the hand that I shake with.

    For less formal occasions that still require a full suit, I wear a grey tweed suit from Ann Taylor. While the jacket is pretty traditional, the skirt is fluted at the edges, which I try to play up with (again) boots, and sometimes a thin belt that peek out at the waist.

    ReplyDelete
  7. I have this same anxiety! I'll be interviewing for grad school programs this winter and I agonized over what to buy to wear to them. I finally decided to go with a really beautiful pair of trousers, heels, and a polished cardigan because I simply didn't feel comfortable in a full suit and I think that would have come across in the interview. Especially if you're just entering the workplace, I think you have more leeway with what you wear to an interview but whatever you choose it should look professional and make you feel comfortable.

    ReplyDelete
  8. Great Topic!

    I work in non-profits so many of the people with whom I interview are dressed very casually. But I also work in fundraising so they need to know that when I go out an meet donors who are very often older than 60 I can look presentable.

    I have three main outfits depending on the organization:
    For Hospitals which are often very conservative (I know I work in one now) I wear a pant suit. Most of the time I am required to wear one to work anyway.

    For NGOs or Higher Ed I wear my Astrid Sweet Potato Jacket and brown pants from BR and cream colored silk blouse (also BR) although the one in this set is J.Crew but the outfit is very similar to
    This polyvore set
    .

    For Human service organizations that have a budget of under 20 million dollars I wear black pants with a BR sweater jacket that never appeared online but it is belted and looks very professional. Black heels and my black coach bag.

    Again, its different in non-profits each one varies SO much. It is easier to tell if you have a more clearly defined industry.

    I should also note that I am looking for a job now and I have gotten call backs from all these interviews and they are all in the early stages. I did get one offer but I turned it down. So I would say that they probably like how I look

    Also Julia, I think you made the right move.

    ReplyDelete
  9. Alexis: You always pick the most interesting topics! Thank you!

    Blumre: I really appreciate your breakdown of which suit to wear in each situation. I have already copy/pasted/printed this so that I can hang it in my closet for reference. :)

    ReplyDelete
  10. Is the J. Crew site down for anyone else? It isn't letting me put anything in my basket since this morning.

    ReplyDelete
  11. JCrewJunkie I am so glad I could help.

    I also disagree with that article. I think bright colors can be so helpful especially under a dark suit. When I wear my J.Crew navy pinstripe suit I always pair with with a nice bright blue blouse! My Astird also shows off my personality and I love getting to wear orange (note: I have very dark hair and a medium-light complexion so the color looks very good on me, but it is definitely not for everyone).

    ReplyDelete
  12. I work in law, and for us the rule is still very much "skirt suit" for interviews. I wish we could be a little bit more creative :P I try to be more creative at work, but if I have to go into court it's back to the old skirt or pants suit. blah.

    ReplyDelete
  13. I think interview attire depends entirely on the job you are interviewing for. Earlier this year, I interviewed at several large law firms, and the expected attire was a dark colored suit, preferably a skirt suit. I have to disagree with Jenna that a pencil skirt with a cashmere sweather would have looked professional enough in the law firm situation.

    This leads to my problem - I am going to be working at a large law firm this summer. I worked at a mid-sized firm last summer, so I know about what to wear every day, but I'm not sure if at the larger firms they expect suits every day. I know so some of the readers of this blog indicate they are practicing attorneys, and I would really appreciate your feedback!

    ReplyDelete
  14. Steph I date a law student and almost all of my friends are lawyers or law students(and many family members are also lawyers). Many of the top firms e.g; Skaden, Shulte, Baker, Sherman, Cadwalder, etc. have gotten a little more cas. especially in summer. Blouses and dress pants or skirts work well. I wouldn't wear a dress capri pant though. It is certainly business formal. For your first day I would wear a suit. And I would say to probably do the same for your first week. Then look at what everyone wears and then during your first weekend start shopping... The one nice thing about being a summer assoc is that firms normally pay enough to at least do a little damage shopping.

    ReplyDelete
  15. I second blumre, Steph. I would start out in a suit and see what everyone else wears. My personal experience has been that usually a suit is not required unless you are going to court, or perhaps meeting with a client (depending on the client; you want the client to be comfortable). As a summer associate you may not be doing a ton of that, so you may not need as many suits; you may need things like skirts, dress pants, nice blouses, blazers etc. That said, you should definitely make note of your firm's "culture" ... they may prefer that everyone wears a suit no matter what. HTH!

    ReplyDelete
  16. P.S. I would also check their policy on open-toed shoes. Many places, no matter how informal, do not allow them.

    ReplyDelete
  17. You dress for the environment that you are going to be working in period, so you look like you fit in. I have lost jobs because I was overdressed for the part, I used to think the old standby navy suit was the answer but it wasn't. You have to do some detective work to find out what other people are wearing to the office.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I agree with mchesq! Check the open toed shoe policy. Also as a summer they will probably send you a manual which will probably have dress code info in it before you start.

    ReplyDelete
  19. jenna sounds like she is contradicting herself all the way through that article. Like she really isn't even sure what is correct. Perhaps this is just snippits and if it were read completely she would make more sense. In the end--I cannot tell what she is offering as the correct thing to wear. I don't think the casual cardi (cashmere or not) is right for ANY job interview-unless it is at j Crew. JMHO.

    ReplyDelete
  20. I believe that charcoal gray looks richer than black. It is the best neutral for a suit. The fit is more important than even the color, however. If it doesn't fit right, it will look cheap. Invest in a tailor, if neccessary. Go for great structure. JCrew has a great line of modern looking suits... I would definitely invest in one if I was job hunting!

    JenG.

    ReplyDelete
  21. What to wear to an interview:

    1) Don't dress like a whore, unless you're interviewing to be a prostitute.

    2) Don't show boobies. Never a good idea. No low cut tops, v-necks, unless you're looking for your sexiness to score you a job.

    3) Skirts, right at the knee. Or pants/suit. Anything higher, and it's suggesting you're going to be a potential problem down the road.

    4) Don't bathe in perfume. You smell good to you, not others.

    5) Minimal jewelry. Simple pieces. If you're not interviewing for an assistant position w/a fashion director, keep it simple.

    6) Practical purse. Nothing loud. Black works. Anything too dangly, colorful, metallic, or childish, and I'm going to assume you're not serious.

    7) No open toe shoes. I don't need to see the snowflake your pedicurist put on your big toe.

    8) Please. Pantyhose. Please.

    9) Minimal makeup. If you're auditioning to become the circus clown, that's a different story.

    10) Keep your hair out of your face. Bun, pony-tails, clipped back.

    ReplyDelete
  22. I love that Jenna at least suggested the nice pants and cardigan. I think women should be able to wear this. But, I still would not dare do it and always wear a suit and my Tiffany pearls and silver ring. But, I ditch the suit once I get the job unless it is needed and wear nice pants or a suit and a cardigan. I am interviewing for a job that would probably require me to wear a suit more than I want (probably the only drawback to the job) but I just think for women that the equivalent of a suit for a man is the nice trousers/skirt and cardigan. I say let the men wear the monkey suits and let the women be creative and look like women and not some knockoff of a man. We are already equals and can do the same job or better without dressing the same. That's probably as liberal as I get as far as dress. I often do not like to see women in open toed shoes in the workplace, especially when they wear too casual shoes, nail polish that is a horrible color, or when their feet are just gross. And many women do not have the feet for open-toed shoes. It's a free country of course, so I try to ignore it, but I still haven't been able to come to peace with it. :)

    ReplyDelete
  23. But, I ditch the suit once I get the job unless it is needed and wear nice pants or a suit and a cardigan.

    I meant "skirt" instead of "suit" here in the second instance.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Pantyhose, really? Always? Curious as to why, if you happen to have a great pair of legs and still manage to carry a skirt to the knee well without being crass or unpolished. Thoughts?

    ReplyDelete
  25. pantyhose makes you look more polished. w/o pantyhose, you see all the imperfections - scars, freckles, tanlines, veins, etc. in some instances it's just not very professional. i've seen some women wearing skirt suits and the bare legs just ruins the look due to cellulite ripples, pores or overall pastiness, especially against a dark colored suit. i know many women do not like wearing pantyhose, and i don't either, especially in the summertime. however, i am in a conservative field and think it makes you look instantly polished, especially when you have less than perfect skin. with pantyhose on, I know i'm covered and it's one less thing to worry about. think of it as an insta-tan for the legs :) if it matters, i'm in my 20's and work in California. we can get away w/o pantyhose for the most part but depending on your field it may be to your professional benefit to wear hose.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Hi, Completely OT... but I am looking on ebay at the Phoebe flannel dress from last year. I love it! I am between sizes - so I was wondering if any of you gals bought this dress last year, and how the sizes run. Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Thanks everyone for sharing your thoughts and opinions! It is great to hear what Aficionadas turn to as their "go to" for interview outfits.

    Also, "bravo!" to Human Resources Director for her list of "what to wear" which made me laugh! ;)

    ReplyDelete
  28. Bravo Human Resources Director. It amazes me what some women wear to work, and it's almost like saying," Please don't take me seriously." I don't have any skirt suits so I haven't run across the pantyose issue in an interview setting but I usually don't wear them in the summertime. But,the comments about pantyhose all year round are good. I may even consider wearing pantyhose in the future. There are still some older women who wear panty hose and open toed shoes. I do not like this look at all. It's like - WTH?

    ReplyDelete
  29. Even as a teacher I wore a navy suit it all my interviews...no way would I wear a cardigan...even cashmere...I think Jenna's advice is incorrect in many fields....

    ReplyDelete
  30. Pantyhose can look good subject to the same caveats as wearing anything else--i.e. they fit properly (not too slouchy-baggy, not so tight it looks like a sausage casing), no runs/holes, and a color that matches your skin tone--nothing too pasty.

    I am a lawyer and can get away with no pantyhose in the office in the summer, but I always put self tanner on my legs to hide pasty-ness and skin imperfections. However, if I am going to court I always wear pantyhose with a skirt suit.

    ReplyDelete
  31. The blonde wearing pink statement manages to be both stupid and ignorant.

    The proper outfit really depends so much on the fiel ... in a creative field, a cardigan would be OK. I imagine the candidate would get laughed out of a banking job.

    ReplyDelete
  32. Steph, most large firms these days are business casual (i.e. slacks or skirt w/ blouse or cardigan, no capris or tank-style tops) but will expect you to keep a suit in your office for unexpected client meetings or court appearances. There are a few firms that are still business formal (i.e. suit) every day, but these are a dying breed. Also every firm I know has a clearly stated dress code policy--just email an HR person and ask him/her to send you a copy!

    ReplyDelete
  33. I wear skirt suits all the time, and fortunately am in a field where no pantyhose = no problem. I hate pantyhose. I think I've worn it less than five times in my life. It's bare legs deep into fall and then on to tights. Honestly, "pantyhose, always" is, thankfully, becoming more and more outdated and the "always" part just isn't true any more.

    Not everyone has ugly legs, and a knee-length skirt and pumps is very professional, regardless of whether or not there is pantyhose on what shows of the legs.

    ReplyDelete
  34. Actually, Alexis, I am really glad you brought up this topic because you guys could help me out here. One thing we haven't covered is multiple interviews. I am in this position right now. For my first interview I wore a black pantsuit and for my second interview I wore a navy pinstripe suit. I am not sure if I need to go back a third time, but if so, then what do I wear? I have a beigish wool gabardine suit but I am not sure about it. To be specific, this would be a position in finance. Things are going well so far and they are seeing about getting me on a team with a Sr. Advisor, so the next step would be if I need to meet the Sr. Advisor before receiving the job offer. I might not need to meet them, but if so, I don't know about wearing the black or navy suit again. I could wear a black pencil skirt or say, the Dream Silvie dress. Or try the nice pants/cardigan thing. I am not sure what to do here and will probably hear something this upcoming week. I think my only other alternative would be to invest in a grey suit. Does anyone have any thoughts or suggestions?

    ReplyDelete
  35. isabella - I hate pantyhose too and usually do what you do. I actually love tights in the winter, especially from J.Crew as they seem to last forever, making them worth the pice. But, I wonder if with my new job I might not need to consider panyhose in summer (if I get the job, crossing fingers.) I think if I do I might wear thigh highs and use those snaps to hold them up. I have one pair from Victoria Secret. I like it much better that wearing full pantyhose all the way up over my underwear.

    ReplyDelete
  36. ameilia,
    I hear you. If I had to wear pantyhose, I'd switch to pants, and I love skirt - but hate pantyhose more :-)

    ReplyDelete
  37. Incidentally - I should add I have been in three times. The first time I was in I had to take a test before I could even score an interview. I checked with the person beforehand and got permission to wear navy J.Crew pinstripe pants with a nice white blouse and the dream long cardian. I just asked what I should wear to come in and take the test and got guidance.
    So, if I go in again it will be fourth time to meet an advisor or two.

    ReplyDelete
  38. ameilia,
    I don't see why you can't wear either suit again, with a different shirt. Black and navy suits are so standard and always appropriate in your field. I think if you've made it past two rounds and are still in the running, you must have done something right besides looking sharp :-)

    That said, a grey suit wouldn't be a bad investment. If you were thinking of buying one anyway, I say do it - but if you're thinking of it solely to wear to a possible third interview, I'd work with what you already have.

    ReplyDelete
  39. isabella - I ended up getting 50% off the Watson city fit so I have them in all five colors - $25 to $30 a pair. One pair I did pay $60 for, but ruined the bottom when visiting NYC and walking around in flats so I am getting the J.Crew tailer to take off the cuffs.) And since I replaced it with another pair in the same color I could have one pair with cuffs and one without cuffs. I am hoping with the cuff and if I can ever iron a pleat that they will be a good pant to wear to work. I have a bunch of silk chiffon skirts from prior seasons but I don't see wearing those in an investment banking firm.
    Do you guys think the Watson city fit pant is a professional enough pant?

    ReplyDelete
  40. isabella - I am going to definitely invest in a grey suit eventually. It's just that I've been out of work for a month so I would rather do sometime next year.
    I am crossing my fingers. I am working on the CFA certification and I need a certain type of experience to qualify for the certification and this would be great and could even be my long-term career.

    ReplyDelete
  41. I am fortunate enough to work an industry where suits are not required. I wore a suit to my first agency interview (I work in the Internet world) and was so overdressed. I have not worn one of my 3 suits since.

    And now an OT question -- does anyone own the Long Brewster Boots? Is the site correct that these run large by 1/2 a size? And by some long shot does anyone know the extended calf measurements? TIA.

    ReplyDelete
  42. I am an attorney, so wearing a suit is a must for me and not a choice. I love J. Crew suits because I feel they look stylish but still classic. I vary what I wear underneath, from a brightly colored button down blouse, to polka dots, to fine gauge sweaters, to cotton knits. A scarf and jewelry can make it look different from one wearing to the next.

    ReplyDelete
  43. roxy,
    Your best bet may be to shoot off an email and ask J.Crew - they should be able to provide you with concise measurements. That's what I do when I'm in doubt about the right size.

    ReplyDelete
  44. Amelia, I would not wear a sweater dress to an interview. I have also had situations where I have gone to multiple interviews with the same org/firm and if you don't have the wardrobe for the interview I would suggest making sure. IMO a beige suit after October really looks out of season... though it could depend on how dark the beige is. Do you have a nice jacket to go with your pencil skirt? Maybe some color to make it interesting? I would not do the cardigan for a job in finance-- its too casual, its better for another industry. I would invest in a great jacket to go with your pencil skirt or a gray suit.

    ReplyDelete
  45. Also Amelia, in finance you may need more than 2 suits as your career progresses, it might be an investment worth making. Also if you wear a navy suit twice no one would probably notice but make sure you accessorize it very differently.

    ReplyDelete
  46. for the long brewster boot i wore the size in normally do outside of jcrew. that being said i normally have to size down a half size for jcrew shoes. so i don't know about them running a half size up... i think their normal shoes run a half size big, but these true to other sizing

    ReplyDelete
  47. Steph -- I work in biglaw in Chicago. Back when I was a summer associate, the firm sent us a memo before we started asking us to wear suits on the first day, so you may encounter the same thing. Basically it was so we'd be dressed up for the ID pictures and welcome reception that night, but also so the other attorneys could identify us as summers because we were in groups all wearing suits. :) Even if you don't receive such a memo, I'd advise wearing a suit the first day anyway. It makes a good impression when you're walking around introducing yourself to the attorneys on your floor, and it's just one less thing to be nervous about on your first day.

    Now for the rest of your time there. My firm, like many of the big firms now, is business casual. Jeans used to be allowed on Fridays, but not anymore (although some firms still allow them). Under the username kitchy7, I have a bunch of outfits up on Polyvore that demonstrate the types of outfits I wear to work. If you're wearing J. Crew, a nice skirt and blouse, or trousers and a blouse with or without a jacket, and some basic heels will go miles and miles in a business casual law firm. You'll look nice, not too old, and professional.

    Always keep a suit, dress shirt or blouse to go under the suit, dressy heels, and hose in your office just in case an attorney asks you to go to court at the last minute. It's fairly standard for law offices to have little hooks somewhere in each office, so you'll have a place to hang up your suit.

    If you have a pet, it's also not a bad idea to keep a roll of packing tape in your office. It gets rid of pet hair incredibly fast. Even better are those UPS/FedEx plastic shipping label sleeves -- you just put your hand in, peel off the sticky protector thingy, and pat yourself down with the sticky side.

    For that matter, it never hurts to keep a hair brush, mirror, and basic makeup in your office. You'll thank yourself on those horribly rainy mornings when you walk in feeling like a drowned rat.

    I never bother with hose unless I'm interviewing or in court, and I've never heard a word about it (my dad told me once never to wear hose in an airplane because they're flammable, and ever since I've been freaked out about wearing them, so I only do it when absolutely necessary). When you're in court is one of those 'absolutely necessary' times. There are actually judges who notice that sort of thing, and you never want to risk getting on a judge's bad side, even if you're only a summer. As for normal daily wear, I think it's a matter of your preference -- if you prefer to wear hose with skirts on a daily basis, go for it, and if you hate hose, don't wear them. Hopefully no one in a law firm will be commenting on your legs anyway!

    If your firm has jeans Friday and summers are allowed to partake, I highly recommend trouser jeans and heels and a nice top, whether a blouse or sweater or jacket. You'll look casual and still put-together. Avoid skinny jeans or low-cut jeans. If you don't feel comfortable wearing jeans, trouser-cut cords are a great alternative.

    And finally, always avoid white pants with black underwear.

    Hope this helps!

    ReplyDelete
  48. Ameilia: I would check what the others are wearing in the office, if you wear a jacket and everyone else is wearing a sweater and dress pants you will feel and look out of place. Even in the finance field business casual goes in some offices. It is best to check and be sure. Good luck!

    ReplyDelete
  49. blumre - thanks for the advice. I was thinking the same thing about the sweater dress but probably needed to hear it from someone else. I asked about the beige suit because I saw a woman wearing one just the other day and was not sure what to think. I know the one I bought came out in the Fall season catalogue at J.Crew. If I get this job, I will invest in at least three or four more suits but it would be nice to know I didn't need to wear one every day. If I get the job, then I also will ask some of the Sr. Advisors who are female and somewhat seasoned what their thoughts are on what is appropriate to wear in the industry to see what their thoughts are as well. Thanks again.

    ReplyDelete
  50. Thanks anon @ 6:12 - I was thinking that, too. Usually if you wear the same style as others in the office you are OK. I don't mind investing in some suits but I just don't want to wear them every day!

    ReplyDelete
  51. Amelia, a herringbone beige could still work for November. But overall we are moving more into winter clothes and colors. I wish you luck. Instead of asking I would just carefully watch what they wear. Asking while you are still new could make you look very green. Ultimately every company has a different dress culture. Your wardrobe will change with each job. Its expensive but at least you will constantly have a need to shop! Good luck on your interview.

    ReplyDelete
  52. Thanks blumre. I think if they call me in again that I will break down and buy a grey suit. That's an interesting point about watching vs. asking. Sometimes women dress differently than one another and you can try to find out which ones appear to know what they are doing and are more respected.
    I am hoping it all works out - I'll let everyone know how it goes!

    ReplyDelete
  53. good luck Amelia! I hope they call!

    ReplyDelete
  54. Thanks kitchy7. Me too. I think this would have gone faster if the markets were not so volatile. That's taking up a lot of their time. But, he apologized about that assured me he's not blowing me off and has been great to work with so far.
    He said he would get back to me this week so I am just waiting to hear!

    ReplyDelete
  55. I was looking online too and could eventually buy a black wool gabardine jacket to match the pencil skirt. Right now I only have a black velvet jacket. There is even a wool gabardine for $165 on sale and I could get free shipping, but I'll have to think about it. Though it would make another suit out of the pencil skirt if I purchased it.

    ReplyDelete
  56. For anyone who might still be interested, there is a size S black rose chiffon t on ebay about to close in 3 hours for 75 bucks with no bids. It's not my auction, but that's not too much more than retail in case you missed out previously. It's item # 190265845281

    ReplyDelete
  57. amelia - I think wearing one of the suits you wore before will be fine. No one will remeber that you wore the same black suit! I would just save your money since you are between jobs and wear the same suit again!

    ReplyDelete
  58. Ameilia,
    Good luck with the third interview!

    I think you should stick to the black or navy suit you have for this third interview, and just change up the shirt and accessories. I also had several rounds of interviews for my company and this is what I did. I, personally, would continue to wear a suit until you've actually gotten a job offer. Also, I don't see any reason to invest in a new suit right now, since you've been out of work for a little while. Once you get the job, reward yourself with that gray suit! JMO

    Again, good luck!

    ReplyDelete
  59. Ameilia - You are still trying to impress, so keep the suit and don't wear the Dream dress until you get the job and see if it fits the culture. I think one of the suits you've already worn is fine. Just change the job.

    humanresourcesdirector - What about nails!? People with long acrylics kill me, esp when they are going for a job that involves typing. Better to take them off until you get the job or at least cut them down and wear a french manicure -- not too much white, very natural. Nails are a pet peeve of mine. I also agree about the cologne/perfume. And if it's hot day, run your A/C on the way to the appt. You never know if you're going to end up in a small office with multiple people waiting to interview you. I've been on the receiving side of the table and I recall a few bad incidents.

    ReplyDelete
  60. thanks anon at 8:23. I just went online and placed a bid on a black wool jacket that would go well with my pencil skirt. If it works out it would be a real steal and I would have another suit.

    ReplyDelete
  61. Thanks smarty and gigifca. I might try to wear the black with a light pink shirt that is french oxford and so I also could wear it with my bull and bear cuff links. I also put a bid on Ebay for a blazer at a very low price and if it works out I will be thrilled because I can make a skirt suit with my black wool pencil skirt.

    ReplyDelete
  62. P.S. The ebay bid is on a J.Crew wool jacket so it should be a good match.

    ReplyDelete
  63. anybody have any thoughts on their seersucker suits? (obviously only for summer, and i live in the south, so it might be double more appropriate)?

    ReplyDelete
  64. I would just like to say that they way Jcrew is giving out those 10% cards for sharing your email doesn't seem fair... I was at the store and the lady in front of me got one... then I was asked for my email, I gave it- and i didn't get one! They didn't mention anything about it at all! and I haven't gotten one before either! What are they selecting which customers are priviledged to this 10% off card or what.

    ReplyDelete
  65. anon @ 10:10 --
    i think jcrew wants to avoid giving out these cards, as they would prefer you pay full price, etc. etc., and only offer the cards as an incentive once you have proved unwilling to give your email without it. also, if they don't give it to you, just ask!

    ReplyDelete
  66. @ 10:10...

    You only get the 10% off for signing up to receive jcrew emails if you do not already receive emails from jcrew and you aren't already in the system

    ReplyDelete
  67. I think Jenna is right, but it does really depend on what kind of industry you are applying for a job in. The whole suit thing is a big bore, but sometimes ya gots to do it, after you get the job you can be more creative. That is why I loved Michelle Obama clothes ~ no boring stodgy pantsuits for her, no mam.

    ReplyDelete
  68. New J.Crew promo! - 25% off full priced shoes and boots until Wed, 11/19.

    The code is SHOESALE.

    I haven't been on an interview in a while either but I usually wear a skirt suit with simple accessories.

    ReplyDelete
  69. Looks like a trend -- 20-25% off a select group of items. Wonder what's next!

    ReplyDelete
  70. This comment has been removed by the author.

    ReplyDelete
  71. Let's see. They've done outwear, sweaters and now shoes. Maybe jewelry is next. Or handbags!

    It would be much more enticing if J.Crew threw in free shipping with these promos.

    ReplyDelete
  72. I just want to say everyone has been so helpful and nice in this post!

    Alexis, excellent idea:)

    ReplyDelete
  73. Hey all -

    I heard back from the company this morning and there is at least one advisor interested in meeting me. The person I have been working with is going to speak to one more advisor, and then I will have one or two lunch meetings and then things can be finalized. I will keep you updated on how it goes. I just won an ebay Jacket that I only had to pay $25 for including shipping that might make another suit out of the pencil skirt!

    ReplyDelete
  74. I work in the tech industry and have never worn a skirt or a dress to an interview or to a meeting with a client -- mostly because I'm almost always the only woman in the room and I don't like to stick out in a sea of men. I have several jcrew and tedbaker suits (pants, no skirts) - all black, grey, pinstripe, navy - and I usually wear them with brighter colored shirts, striped shirts, cashmere sweaters, big necklaces. My wife and I did some media interviews this year and we were advised not to wear bright colors or prints for video/TV interviews but then one interview was outside and there I was wearing my brightly colored honey/mustard/yellow Lucille jacket to ward off the chill of the day.

    ReplyDelete
  75. I work in law as well. My firm requires suits everyday, and most of my suits are from Banana and JCrew -- all are either navy, charcoal, or chocolatey brown. Though this is sort of boring, for me, it is all about interesting blouses and accessories to add some character to my outfit.

    I often wear ruffle blouses or argyle sweaters under the suit. I usually wear a fun necklace too -- often opera length pearls (not as conservative as shorter pearls, IMO) or some other longer necklace. I have several of the smaller, colored necklaces from Jcrew that I love to wear with my suits. They are not so bold as to look inappropriate in a business setting, but they are colorful and trendy enough to make me feel like I stand out a little.

    Also, I like to wear fun shoes to spruce up the suit. They cannot be a bright color, so I have a few darker colored shoes like burgandy and dark green. I think it's a nice way to spice up a suit.

    My firm does allow women to go without stockings in the summer, and we can also wear peep toes, which is nice. I am not sure if this is standard, however.

    Also, I evenly switch back and forth between skirt and pants, though most of the women in my office wear pantsuits.

    Oh, and, we are allowed to dress a little more casually on Fridays. In the summer, Friday is when I pull out the seersucker and the marina stripe suit. They are always a hit and I get a lot of compliments on them!!

    ReplyDelete
  76. Sorry, I just realized I went off topic and didn't talk about interview suits. When I interviewed last year for summer associate positions at law firms, I always wore a charcoal pinstripe skirt suit from Banana. I wore a light blue blouse underneath, though a few of my friends wore ruffle blouses from JCrew. I think it is best to play it safe and wear a plain, simple suit with a simple top and shoes.

    ReplyDelete
  77. I have a question about J.Crew suits (hopefully someone is still around to answer)! I am also a law student who will be a summer associate in a large firm next summer and would like to buy a seasonless black lightweight wool suit. I plan on purchasing both the pants and skirt, and am trying to choose between the stretch wool and the super 120s. Is there much difference between the two in terms of fit, quality, etc? I am curvy/pear shaped (think Beyonce), so I'm not sure which would be a better fit.

    Unfortunately, there aren't any more wide-leg pants available, so I'll be choosing between the favorite fit and the city fit. Thanks for your help!

    ReplyDelete
  78. Hi-- If you have more in the "rump" area go for the city fit. Favorite fit is better for boyish shapes. Personally, I think the Super 120 is the highest quality and I love it. In fact I just bought another pair of 120s black pants tonight. The City-Fit Stretch wool Gallery pants are also nice but they are lined (not good for summer). You will be out at lunch with your firm a lot so don't only plan for office air conditioning plan to be walking aorund occasionally... so for summer I would go unlined. the 120s come both lined and unlined. Good luck on your suiting search and this summer!

    ReplyDelete
  79. Hey! I like to work online and have a remote job because it gives so many opportunities! Now I am always looking for such vacancies on different sites for example freelance jobs remote hub jobs! On this site you can find a lot of vacancies! I liked it very much because in this way I can earn well!

    ReplyDelete

Dear J.Crew Aficionadas & Aficionados: Please feel free (and encouraged) to share your thoughts and opinions. :) However, please note that this is still a personal blog. So comments that are considered inappropriate (e.g. obscene, racist, homophobic, personal attacks, rude, and just plain mean) will be removed.

And now back to J.Crew! :)