Another interview question - YouLookFab Forum

Today I was offered an interview on Monday for a job I think I would LOVE. Although I've been applying, I was somehow caught off guard and am completely unprepared.
I immediately turned to YLF. I searched "interview" and got a few tips but have a couple of questions.
I would most like to wear a suit but I don't own one (I have been looking recently). I'm willing to spend money for a suit, but I don't think I have time to find the perfect suit by Monday (I have to work tomorrow and expect to spend much of the weekend mentally preparing because my interviewing experience is limited). Plus, I'm 5'9" and around a size 4-6 and finding a suit in store that doesn't to be altered seems unlikely (I did try on a bunch of jackets today at Dillards...no luck).
The position is at a university as an upper level research professional. I saw a picture online of some of the individuals that work in the lab (not where I would be) and they were all dressed quite casually. Business casual (or worse!) seems common in a scientific research environment to me.
I have dress pants and pencil skirts (more specifically, I have the light grey pants and a light grey longer pencil skirt with pleating in the back and also the brown pants from Express--I would venture to guess many people know these specific items).
Am I crazy to think I can wear a button up and short sleeved cardigan with the pants if I keep everything clean (sharp belt, minimal accessories, no nail polish, light make-up)?
Any other ideas that don't require a blazer?
Eeek! I'm nervous.

16 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Welcome to our forum!

I believe that you have to step in up in an interview and don’t go by what you saw people wear in the office – especially if the environment is conservative.

You *could* keep it clean with pants/skirt and a button down but they would have to be TOP NOTCH. A well fitting jacket is always an easy and professional solution. Do you think you could post pictures? Visuals are helpful.

Antje

Veteran

I agree that a jacket would be ideal. Do you have Ann Taylor or Ann Taylor Loft nearby? Those are two good options for finding something suitable. Another option could be a waistcoat/vest over a button down; I find that also brings things up a notch.

I have been to several interviews lately and mostly not worn a jacket, but those were for positions in hi tech/creative environments and I already had connections to the respective workplace, also some of these interviews took place in coffee shops which made them less formal overall. I felt dressed appropriately in just a button down (for an interview on a hot day and in a coffee shop), or a button down plus cardigan, or a button down plus vest. For the job interview you describe, especially if you don't already know the interviewer/staff, I'd go with a jacket. You will feel more confident that way, I think, and it'll show.

Chi-TownLove

Active Member

Thanks, ladies!
In my mind, I know a suit jacket is my best option...but not sure where I can find one. Yesterday I tried on a~15 suit jackets at Dillards, what was available at Ann Taylor Loft, Banana Republic, and they grey jacket that matches my Express pants/skirt. All too short in my size. If I go a few sizes large, I they are long enough but then they would have to be tailored A LOT---which is fine, except I need it Monday and I don't think that's realistic. There was one at Dillards that I think I could make work with the matching skirt length wise, but it had 3/4 length sleeves and a built in belt---not the classic look I am going for. The jacket and skirt together were $300---that would be okay if it were the perfect suit with a more classic look.
I won't be comfortable if the jacket is too short, especially if the sleeves are too short (pulling under my arms with my wrists hanging out!) or if it's hanging off of me.
Are there any taller ladies around my size who have had luck finding a jacket in store?
Lesson learned....I need to prepare my outfit BEFORE I even get the interview.

Chris

Welcome to ylf!

Special sizing/tailoring needs are hard to squezze in at last minute for sure.

If you don't find a jacket do everything you can to dress up the cardi/blouse. Wear the skirt for sure and use some killer accessories - a necklace would be good to call attention upward to your smile

I agree that a suit is most professional , but I have interviewed folks on bad suits, hired candidates in other professional outfits and really focus on the answers to my questions more than anything. The lack of a jacket isn't a dealbreaker - lack of confidence or not answering questions is.
I do look to hire people who pay attention to details (no scuffy shoes, hanging hems, etc.)

Settle outfit early on Saturday, press, and then get to your mental prep.
Good luck!

Anonymous

I hear your pain! I tried to find a suit in stores to no avail as well - I'm a 4 or 6 in pants and a 0 or 2 on top and 5'10".

I worked at a small university and was part of several interviews, and in my experience, you should wear a suit jacket. Even if you won't wear it daily if you get the job, the point is to look put together and professional. I would encourage you to try getting a suit jacket that doesn't match - that will be hard to come by since fabrics and colors will not be the same as your Express items.

Go to the online "tall" sections of Banana Republic, J. Crew, and perhaps Ann Taylor Loft. Look at the sale sections, call customer service for garment measurements, and opt for overnight shipping if you find something that works with your measurements. Don't forget to consider alterations - look for extra fabric hemmed up in the sleeve and leg openings.

Good luck!

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