STYLETHREAD -- LET'S TALK SHOP!

kiwi · BCBG

what to wear - interview

dot · Marc Jacobs

I don't know.. I've worked in alot of casual environments (one of the jobs I didn't wear shoes at work most of the time) and sat-in on alot of interviews. I never thought of it as a bad thing when the candidate came dressed "business-style" or a little formally but always made note when a candidate showed up too casually, like they were not taking the interview and therefore the position seriously. When in doubt be conservative.

I think a skirt and a nice shirt would really be best for an interview. A full-on suit maybe too much (not sure what kind of position it is). Also, sorry to be harsh, but I think flops are too casual for any interview. I would wear flats, and if you don't have a pair, maybe think about buying an inexpensive but functional pair. You would definitely use them again, and also, in a lab, don't they encourage closed-toe shoes at all times? Sorry just thinking about dress-code for college chemistry lab!

Anyway, whatever you decide to wear, good luck on your interview!

oliviacw · BCBG

I think you should dress up a bit more than that for any interview, even if that's what you end up wearing on a daily basis at the lab. And I agree with Dot, closed-toe shoes would be very important for a chemistry lab.

I would go with khakis or a simple skirt, and a polo or button down shirt of some type. Flats or a low heel loafer would be preferable. If you wear khakis, then you could even wear the pumas and it would be ok.

gypsyfreak · Coach

I'm going to have to agree with dot, too. I think you should wear something a little more dressier, since it is an interview. Also, I think closed toe shoes would be more appropriate as well. I remember in my undergraduate years, flip flops and open toed shoes were not allowed in any of my labs. But in your case, the standards may be different. However, I personally would err on the side of caution and wear flats or something.

kiwi · BCBG

thanks girls! after i posted, i realized it was way too casual (seeing it in print was a wake up call). i've just decided to go with a nice crisp button down and some black slacks or something in the same vein. i need to get this job!

i'll have to go shoe hunting. if anyone has shoe suggestions (i.e. would work for an interview, but also wearable everyday and won't cost too much), i'd be grateful!

jacL · Coach

I know you have already decided to dress up more, but I want to put in my two cents. I worked at a university lab while in school--super casual and I was doing a lot of stuff that permitted me to wear sandals if I wanted. However, like everyone else said, I think it is very important to dress conservatively for an interview, especially if there are other applicants. Now that I am out of school, I have interviewed with a few clinical labs and always wore a business suit, even though the people actually in the lab usually wear scrubs. Even if you show up overdressed, that will work to your advantage. Good luck at the interview.

P.S. I don't have any shoe suggestions, but if you don't think you will use these shoes for anything other than the interview, try Target or Payless.

gingembre1 · Kate Spade

Even if the actual "working" environment will be casual, it is ALWAYS better to go dressed more formally. Therefore, no flip-flops, no tank tops. Best to go with a button down shirt, slacks, and close-toed heels. JMO, but from my experience interviewers prefer to see someone looking more professional.