Dress the Part

Even with the most developed résumé, a great elevator pitch, and a lot of relevant experience, if you aren’t dressed like a professional, a potential employer will not see you as one. So make sure you dress the part for any professional event you attend!

Business Professional

Ladies

  • A conservative suit in navy, black, grey, or brown with matching trousers or skirt. The suit should be in a solid or subtle pattern
  • A dress can also be an option if paired with jacket
  • Button down shirts in soft colors or blouses are the best options in tops
  • Pair the suit and shirt with a pair of heels or flats in a coordinating color. Keep the heel height under 3 inches. Shoes should completely cover your toes
  • Jewelry and accessories should be minimal. You do not want to distract people with too much embellishment

Gentlemen

  • Choose a conservative suit in navy, black or gray either pinstripe or solid
  • A solid white or blue dress shirt is your safest choice. The more pattern, the more people focus on your clothing rather than you
  • Ties should be simple and subtle to enhance your credibility
  • Shoes should also be conservative and lace ups
  • Belts need to in color with your shoes
  • Keep jewelry to a minimum.

Business Casual

Ladies

  • Skirts or pants can be worn in a solid black, navy, grey, or brown. Skirts should come to the knee length while standing
  • Button down shirts are appropriate as is a nice blouse, sweater or sweater sets.
  • Shoes should not be excessively high and should generally cover your toes
  • Jewelry and accessories should resemble a traditional look.

Gentlemen

  • Start with a classic pair of khaki pants with a conservative solid or subtle print long sleeved button down shirt
  • Matching belt and shoes is the best choice
  • Athletic shoes are not appropriate
  • Ties are not required but are an appropriate option if desired
  • Keep jewelry to a minimum
By Isabel Blank