Dress for success, what to wear to a job interview

Posted: Jul 13, 2011 6:00 PM by Stephanie Collins
Updated: Aug 2, 2011 4:23 PM

If you're out of work, have you had trouble getting a job? While your resume is important, what you wear to an interview is too, and it can be the difference between getting the job or not.

I met with local image consultant, Tia Warren with Image by Tia, she says how you dress for an interview depends on the kind of job you're trying to get, "You need to do your research first, find out what they wear at that company so you can dress appropriately."

For an interview that's more formal, both men and women should wear a full suit, "This is where the jacket and the bottom piece, skirt or pant go together. They're the same fabric and meant to be worn together," Tia explains.

For women, a skirted suit is more formal that a pant suit. For men, a white shirt with a dark tie, under the suit coat, is the most formal pairing. If the interview is more casual, you still need to dress up, but your jacket and pants don't need to match, and the overall look can be more relaxed. For men, you don't have to necessarily wear a tie if the interview is more casual.

For shoes Tia suggests, a low or medium height heel with a closed toe, for women. For men, wear shoes that are the same color or darker than your pants. Men's shoes that lace up are more formal and slip on shoes are more casual. Avoid bright, flashy shoes, "People will focus on your feet and not up near your face, where you want them," Tia explains.

Also, avoid any type of clothing or accessories that can be distracting. No busy prints, big jewelry or bright colors. Here are some general tips for both Men and Women to keep in mind:

-Dress up rather than dress down
-Always wear a collar, it's more professional
-Dress in threes, two pieces on top and one on the bottom
-Dress simple and understated
-No denim
-Cover up any tattoos
-Don't wear too much cologne or perfume

For more tips and to visit Tia's website, click here.