As if job interviews weren’t stressful enough, add on trying to find the right thing to wear to one and you’ve got the makings for an enormous stress induced breakout. Luckily there are two pieces that can save you from all the drama and last past the interview process (even if your nerves don’t): a black pencil skirt and black blazer.
Ask any hiring manager or career coach and they’ll tell you that appearing clean and put together are the two most important factors of the first impression. Even if you dress wildly or in the latest trends in your social life, remember that unless a company is hiring you for those attributes you should show respect for the company and the position by cleaning up in a classic suit – at least for the interview.
Look for a skirt that fits snugly without being too tight. If the fabric strains across your hips, butt, or thighs, try the next size up, even if the waist is too loose; it is easier to tailor a waistband than the entire architecture of a skirt. Always look for a skirt that’s made of natural fibers like wool or cotton, and avoid synthetic fibers like polyester or rayon. Natural fibers will last longer and feel better against your skin.
For a blazer, you’ll be looking for something in the same fabric as the skirt, or at the very least the same shade of black. It is essential that the shoulders of the jacket fit nicely so that the seam is lined up with the very edge of your shoulder; any further out, and you’ll risk looking like a linebacker. Avoid anything with a shoulder pad. If you have a blazer that fits nicely and matches your pencil skirt but has shoulder pads, take it to your seamstress to have them removed. You may also need to visit the seamstress to have sleeves lengthened (which can be done of there’s enough of a seam in the wrists) or shortened. Sleeves should extend to just past the wrists when your arms are straightened and to the wrist when your arms are bent.
These two classic pieces can easily be paired with the white button down shirt mentioned in the previous article. A crisp white shirt beneath the black of the blazer and skirt make for a sharp look no matter what season you’re in. Never wear a T-shirt or any other casual shirt beneath the blazer and pencil skirt for business occasions, and in general it’s a good idea to avoid wearing anything with a logo on it.
For interviews and business, keep jewelry to a minimum. Wear small earrings and necklaces, a watch, and rings on no more than two fingers. Similarly, keep your makeup light. These two touches ensure that people are paying attention to what you’re saying, and not being distracted by anything that you’re wearing.
Whether or not you actually land the job or keep it, these are two excellent pieces to have in your wardrobe for business or any event that you may need to be formal for. Pair it with a great, sleek pointy-toed pump for a very chic look anytime.