What to (and NOT to) wear for an Interview- with Delia Folk & Alison Bruhn The Style That Binds Us
Keep Your Cool and Dress with Style: The Art of Interview Attire in Summer Heat And For All Seasons!
As the mercury rises and the sun shines brightly, the summer months can pose quite a challenge when it comes to dressing up for an interview.
Now, imagine stepping into the fashion retail world, where the stakes are higher, and style is everything.
Fear not, aspiring fashionistas…. well-known NYC styling duo Delia Folk and Alison Bruhn from The Style That Binds Us are guest blogging with me today to guide you on how to dress with panache while avoiding melting into a puddle of sweat during your interview.
The Style That Binds Us is a media platform & consulting agency (style & brand consulting) founded by mother daughter duo, Alison Bruhn & Delia Folk, on a mission to ensure their audience lives their most stylish and fearless life.
So, let's dive in and discover how to strike the perfect balance between style and comfort while showcasing your fashion prowess!
Why Style Matters…
Beyond the visual impact, dressing with style for an interview in the fashion retail industry conveys your dedication and passion for the industry. It shows that you understand the importance of visual presentation, attention to detail, and brand representation. When you show up looking and feeling great, it exudes confidence and sets the tone for a positive interaction. After all, the fashion world is all about making a statement, and your interview outfit is the perfect canvas for your personal brand.
Here are Delia and Alison’s tried and true advice for showing up looking and feeling your best as you prepare for an interview!
Don’t experiment with your interview attire. Wear what makes you feel like YOU and super confident in your skin.
Don’t wear something to an interview you’ve never worn before. That could lead to unknown wardrobe malfunctions, blisters, clothes feeling too tight, fabric that easily wrinkles, etc.
Don’t show up to the interview without steaming/ironing as well as lint rolling your clothes.
Don’t forget to get a 360 view in the mirror before you leave!
Don’t forget that a smile and confidence is your best accessory.
Don’t think you have to wear designer clothes. Wear the best quality you can afford at the time (don’t forget about shopping at consignment stores to get luxury for less! That’s how we built Delia’s early career wardrobe)
Don’t forget business cards (even if you’re still in college you can have personal ones)! It serves as a physical reminder + sets you apart.
And in the end of it all…don’t forget to breathe!
Hacks for nailing your Summer (and year-round) interview look:
Non-verbal communication is more memorable than what you say- this means that what you wear and how you present yourself matters immensely.
Keep it simple:
The less is more approach. Understated and polished- this includes your clothing, hairstyle, nails and makeup.
Embrace Light Fabrics:
When it feels like the sun has taken a personal vendetta against you, choosing the right fabrics becomes crucial. Opt for light and breathable materials like linen, cotton, or chambray. These fabrics allow air to circulate, preventing you from turning into a walking sauna. Plus, they exude a relaxed yet sophisticated vibe that aligns perfectly with a luxury brand's aesthetic.
Play with Colors:
Summer is all about vibrant hues and bold shades, so why not incorporate them into your interview outfit? Consider adding a pop of color to your ensemble to reflect your vibrant personality. A colorful accessory, like a statement necklace or a pocket square, can make all the difference and showcase your attention to detail.
Opt for Tailored Pieces:
Nothing screams style like a perfectly tailored outfit. When choosing your interview attire, focus on well-fitted garments that flatter your body shape. Tailored pieces not only make you look polished but also create a lasting impression on potential employers. Remember, confidence is key, and a well-fitted suit or dress can work wonders for your self-assurance.
Dress for the Role:
While it's essential to showcase your personal style, it's equally important to align your outfit with the luxury brand you're interviewing for. Research the brand's aesthetic and dress code, and tailor your outfit accordingly. If the brand leans towards a more classic and refined look, opt for elegant silhouettes and timeless accessories. For a brand with a contemporary edge, experiment with fashion-forward elements that still maintain a professional touch.
The Power of Footwear:
In the scorching summer heat, your choice of footwear can make or break your outfit. Opt for breathable shoes that won't leave your feet feeling trapped and uncomfortable. Stylish loafers, ballet flats, or even dressy sandals can be fantastic options. Just make sure they're in line with the brand's image and add that final touch of elegance to your ensemble.
Delia & Alison’s- (The Style that Binds Us) 5 tips for what to wear to an interview:
1. Tailored dress, blouse or pantsuit in a solid color
2. Simple jewelry
3. Basic pump or loafer in good condition
4. Clean hair, understated but chic hairstyle
5. Simple, natural makeup and nails
Interview Styling Don’ts:
· Don’t wear fabric that is too silky and clinging to the body.
· Don’t wear skirts too short.
· Don’t wear clothes too tight or too big.
· Don’t wear shoes that are too tall for you to be able to walk in comfortably and gracefully.
· Don’t wear dresses with the back cut low, spaghetti straps, ruffles-anything that looks like a party dress, you want to be taken seriously for your intelligence, and you want to stand out for all the right reasons.
· Heels should be worn in an interview if they make you feel powerful, not if they make you feel awkward, like you are going to possibly fall on your face! That’s a serious distraction and an unnecessary worry.
· Stay away from extra-large oversized, statement, jewelry, or very busy prints and patterns as they can be a distraction.
Interview Styling Do's:
· Have your nails in good shape.
· Wear understated makeup.
· Pay attention to how far your skirt rides up when you’re sitting down.
· Make sure your shoes stay on and they aren’t too uncomfortable.
Extra Pro Tip!
Try on your look 2 weeks ahead (including the undergarments you’re going to wear), in case your look needs alterations or cleaning, shoes need polishing, heel tips replaced, etc. Watch yourself walking in a full length mirror or ask someone to film you walking towards them. Look at yourself in the mirror from the front and side sitting down. Get someone to take a picture of you from the back. Knowing that how you look is going to send the message you intend takes away so much of the anxiety, builds much needed confidence going into an interview. You feel empowered and more in control, knowing you’re one step ahead of the game when you walk in the door.
Preparing for an interview in the summer heat doesn't mean you have to sacrifice style or comfort. By carefully selecting light fabrics, embracing color, opting for tailored pieces, aligning your outfit with the brand's aesthetic, and choosing appropriate footwear, you can master the art of dressing with style while keeping your cool.
Remember a well-put-together ensemble will make you stand out from the crowd and leave a lasting impression.
So, go forth, fashion enthusiast, and conquer that interview with your impeccable style!
Want more style inspiration?
Click this YouTube video of Delia & Alison sharing tips for what to wear to a virtual interview: https://youtu.be/JGW8UTdgpvs
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Check out Delia and Alison’s Pivot with Purpose Podcast Episode to learn more about this Mother/Daughter Styling Duo!
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