First impressions count - whether it’s a job interview, a networking event, or the first day at a new job or internship. You can achieve a professional appearance, stay comfortable, and showcase your personality, all while feeling and looking fantastic! Remember - clothing should have a proper fit, look polished and professional, and represent your brand. You’re interviewing them as much as they’re interviewing you.
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Your outfit should fit properly and not be too tight, small, or baggy
Make sure that any piercings or visible tattoos you have align with company guidelines
Add some color and personality to your outfit with accessories, shoes, scarves, or layered items, such as cardigans and jackets
Consider your audience - Are you working at a corporate headquarters or at an art gallery or perhaps in a laboratory setting? Each has unique guidelines for professional dress, so research each company in advance
When in doubt, ask before your first day what the dress code is! Or consider how your coworkers dress and follow the same general principles
For instance, if no one wears jeans you should not wear jeans to work
Wear your chosen outfit at least once prior to your interview or first day to ensure it fits you and feels good. Then, style more outfits that allow you to bring your authentic self to work
Business Attire is the standard dress code for a job or internship interview. Keep in mind that this type of attire is most appropriate in a corporate setting. Here are some attire tips and suggestions:
Skirt suit - This includes a knee-length skirt, tailored jacket, and solid (or subtle patterned) blouse/top/dress shirt
Pantsuit – This includes well-fitting pants, solid (or subtle patterned) blouse/top/dress shirt, and a tailored jacket
Slacks/Pants with a coordinated sport coat or jacket and a solid (or subtle patterned) blouse/top/dress shirt
Give your outfit a pop of color in your shoes, jewelry, scarf, or pocket square. You want to feel like YOU!
A coordinated tie
Dark, polished shoes and matching socks
Closed-toed shoes with 1-2 inch heels
Small to medium size purse, briefcase, or padfolio
Clean haircut and style
Groomed facial hair
Avoid heavy colognes, perfumes, and body sprays
Wear an undershirt underneath a dress shirt
Business Casual is the most common dress code in offices. While this may be too casual for most formal job interviews, you may find business casual appropriate for the office, a conference, a networking event, or a dinner. Every work environment is different. Observe and inquire about the dress code.
Business Casual is the most common dress code in offices. While this may be too casual for most formal job interviews, you may find business casual appropriate for the office, a conference, a networking event, or a dinner. Every work environment is different. Observe and inquire about the dress code. Business casual may include:
Jacket, blouse, cardigan, or sweater
Collared button-up shirt or a collared knit polo shirt
Knee-length skirt
Simple, knee-length dress
Pants or khakis
Closed-toed shoes
Jeans or casual sundresses, clothing with holes or rips, athletic clothing or sneakers
Clothing too tight, small, or revealing
Clothing that is wrinkled, see-through, or has inappropriate images
Casual Fridays are very common in office settings. While it is more casual than business casual, there are some rules you should follow. Every work environment is different, so be sure to observe and inquire about the dress code.
Jeans (no rips or holes)
Sneakers
Crewnecks and sweaters
Shortsleeve button-down shirts
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Temple University has a partnership with The Wardrobe to offer students free and discounted second-hand professional attire:
