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Interview attire requires striking balance

By Brittney Schuessler

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Published: Monday, October 6, 2008

Updated: Sunday, December 14, 2008

It's time to dress to impress.

Dressing for an interview is complicated. The key is striking a balance between a professional, career-oriented attire and an ensemble that is uniquely you.

Dressing professionally means limited jewelry and accessories, closed-toed shoes, no cleavage, no low rise pants and no denim or belly skin. Your arms should also be considerably covered.

Basic professional attire includes colors such as gray, black, white and navy. However, brighter accent colors are not something to be afraid of. Items such as pencil skirts, button-up shirts, black trousers, ties and blazers are always acceptable. Sharp angles and pinstripes generally offer a hint of sophistication.

It's also better to carry necessary items in a briefcase or portfolio. A large, trendy purse or backpack has the potential to look tacky or out of place.

In general, your clothes should be ironed, you should not chew gum and nothing should be too short or too tight. Girls, if you choose to wear a skirt, it should be to the knee. Guys, your shirt should be tucked in and your pants and shoes should coordinate. And if you wear a tie, it shouldn't be too loud.

If the super-spiffy professional look isn't you, here is some good news: The ideal career wardrobe has evolved. While two-piece suits are definitely suitable, it's OK to think a little outside the box as well.

At the same time, this doesn't mean you can show up in everyday clothes and expect the job. It isn't good to stand out solely because of your attire.

To help prepare, get your clothes together the night before. Try them on, and ask your friends or family members what they think.

brittneyschuessler@dailynebraskan.com

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