Dress for success without splurging

With multiple career and internship fairs happening at USF this month, the need to dress the part of an experienced professional is at its highest. 

The Oracle has some easy fashion tips to help you look the part and land the job or internship of your dreams. 

Men’s interview clothing choices are relatively simple. 

Unless you are applying for a job at a law firm or for a business position, spending month on a three-piece suit is unnecessary. 

A good pair of slacks — not jeans — that are well-tailored and professionally pressed will take you far in impressing a future boss. You can find some available for under $100. Perry Ellis Outlet at 4902 W. Waters Avenue has a variety of high-end slacks that can
fly off racks as cheap as $8 a pair on sales days.

Pairing the slacks with an ironed and unstained button-down shirt -— a long-sleeved Oxford will usually do the trick — and an understated tie is guaranteed to garner favorable results. Macy’s at University Mall frequently hosts one day sales, and often sells quality shirts for under $20. Ross is the perfect rack to scan for ties, which can go for as little as $5. Also, a necessary is a clean pair of dress shoes, shined until you can see your reflection in the leather.

It’s worth it to pay a little more and get a better-looking shoe, as bosses tend to notice things like this.


While there is no need to break the bank on a pair of Bruno Maglis, investing in a good, solid-colored shoe, even from Payless, is
well-worth the price. 

Finally, men, do not underestimate the importance of personal grooming. Nails should be trimmed and free of dirt, and facial hair should be neatly trimmed, if not shaved off altogether. And while longer hair has enjoyed a comeback lately; avoid being too trendy with your hairstyle: no employer will be impressed by how closely your hair resembles Justin Bieber’s. 

Women’s interview wardrobe selections are a bit more complicated, as there are many more styles to choose from. A nicely tailored pantsuit is always a safe bet, but many postgraduates find this look a little outdated and opt for something a bit more trendy. This can be achieved by pairing a nicely tailored jacket in a neutral color with a skirt of appropriate length, but save the minis for the club. Old Navy has a great selection of career-friendly pencil skirts ranging from $25 to $30.

A blouse or sweater in an eye-popping shade can add personality and flair to business attire and will allow you to showcase your individuality without coming across as over-the-top. A well-fitted dress in a solid color is also a nice choice for an interview. Take
advantage of the solid bright color block dresses that are in style. 

Most of these are modest enough to be worn at an interview, yet fun enough to show your potential employer that you have a little bit of moxie — as long as the length of the dress is appropriate. A good rule of thumb is to ask yourself: would I wear this to a place of
worship? If the answer is yes, all systems go. If the answer is no, find another dress.  

Forever 21 at Wiregrass Mall or Brandon’s Westfield Mall offers a selection of cheap and flattering dresses and blouses that range from $7 to $20. 

As for shoes, heels are appropriate, but stay away from stilettos and other flashy footwear. Remember, this is a job interview, not a night out in Ybor. 

Capitalize on the current look of flesh-colored heels — not only are they fashionable and classy, they are also great for elongating legs. Affordable pairs can be found at stores such as Target and TJ Maxx.

As for make-up and hair, keep it simple. No hair-sprayed beehives, no garish blue eye shadow and no obvious lip liner. And, get rid of those five-inch acrylics with the elaborate decals. They impress no one, and they’re scary. Furthermore, you want to be able to hold a pen when you sign your employment contract, don’t you?