I've been job hunting since I was 16, with much luck to getting a few of them. My mom would always bug me about getting my nails done, eyebrows waxed, hair trimmed, nice outfits, and I would get super annoyed about her nags and lectures. But I totally understood what she meant because she is a career woman, and has been strong in the workforce for almost 19 years, a few years after we moved from the Philippines. She really struggled to make it to where she is, especially with working amongst people who have MBAs whereas she didn't have a degree. She would always tell me, "You need to polish your physical appearance, because we live in a visual world, and first impressions are important. If there were 2 people vying for the same job, and they had the same experience, education, etc. the one who looks more presentable will more likely be the candidate. Plus, the focusing on the physical aspect is the easy part, so get it out of the way so you can focus on the mental aspects (figuring out your interview answers, questions to ask them, etc.)" Turns out moms are always onto something, right?
Well there are some exceptions to that rule. My first interview was a tutor for a computer lab on campus, and when I submitted my application, I had an interview on the spot wearing an Abercrombie cardigan with a t-shirt, jeans and sneakers! Since it was a super casual environment and I had the skills, I got the job. Plus, the creative industry doesn't call for stiff black suites and pants. My mom works in healthcare, so her dress code is a bit more formal.
I am happy to report that I just landed a part time job at a marketing agency that specializes in salons and spas. I am a graphic designer there. I think it's going good so far although I'm not a fan of the commute (it's an hour, but would be 45 minutes if it wasn't for morning traffic). Although it's a very casual environment (my boss wears yoga pants and tells me she's going to go to the gym for an hour! And my co-worker, another graphic designer wears shorts!), I made sure I looked as neat and presentable as possible. I take Mom's nuggets of wisdom regarding work very seriously.
My hope for this post is to give you outfit ideas for when you land that job interview. I understand how tough it is to get a job. For me, sometimes I would doubt myself and wonder if I will ever get one. But trust me, you will find the job for you at the right place and right time. In the meantime, here are some outfits I created on Polyvore to inspire you. You want to make a lasting impression, but you want to express bits of your style. Don't forget to research the company and dress up for whatever the environment you think they will have!
Look #1: Business Casual
Interview Style: Business Casual by hannah-ucol featuring sports jewelry
This is the style I ALWAYS lean towards, especially because the creative industry doesn't require super formal style. My go-to outfit is usually a button down or a tunic top, followed with straight pants. I wear flats to tie this look, and you can also wear loafers (like above) for a more polished look. For the interview for my recent job, I wore a pink tank top from Topshop (Nordstrom) with a purple/black tweed blazer on top.
Look #2: Timeless Chic
Job interview attire: Timeless chic by hannah-ucol featuring plus size skirts
This is more for the formal environment, but I created this look so it wouldn't be so stuffy and uptight. You can never go wrong with classic pieces like pearls, pencil skirts and kitten heels! Add a neutral colored blazer, so you can have some color without being too loud.
Look #3: A Touch of Femme
Touch of Femme by hannah-ucol featuring a leather wallet
You want to show off your girlish style without being too flirty, and you want to give the impression that you take the job seriously. Well, this look is for you! A colorblock dress will give you a clean, streamlined look and the statement necklace adds a more formal and feminine touch. The beige pumps match the dress and tie in this whole look.
These are some rough ideas, but just also make sure you dress comfortably too. Happy job hunting and I hope you find the right one out there for you!
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