Q&A about individual items, ensembles, and wardrobe

Not "important" interview today-- what to wear?

Marianna

As a recent college grad trying to get on my feet, I'm looking for "side" jobs while my television production job is only part time. Today I have an interview at a new trendy restaurant (server or host position).

Since it is a "uniform" job, I'm not quite sure what to wear to the interview. The fact that this is a brand new (not even opened yet) and trendy restaurant adds to my confusion. Also, I don't really *want* this job, it's more a matter of need, so I'm finding myself unmotivated about dressing up for the interview. It's also raining today.

What would you wear to a restaurant job interview?

I just bought a pair of really nice black boot cut Jag jeans. I thought about wearing them with a nice tunic and cardigan, and ballet flats. The black jeans almost look like trousers to me.

Or I could wear black dress trousers and a nice top...

Or I could wear a nice dress (although it's raining out and I'm not sure this appeals to me).

I don't have any skirts yet.

Any ideas? This isn't a professional setting in the least so I'm really lost.

The latest reply was from Angie . You can follow further contributions to the conversation through the RSS 2.0 feed.


13 Replies

Posted 2 months ago
chewyspaghetti (website)

I'd still dress professional and go with the dress pants- good luck!

Posted 2 months ago
rute

I would choose the dress pants a nice blouse and a classical cardigan.

Posted 2 months ago
Melody

I'd go with the black trousers & a nice top.

Posted 2 months ago
Danja (website)

I'd err on the side of being too dressed up. Trousers and a nice top seem very sensible. Go for it. And good luck!

Posted 2 months ago
Angie (website)

Another vote for the trouser ensemble. Good luck!

Posted 2 months ago
Alecia

Dress slacks or dress gets my vote. I may be old-fashioned but I say no jeans for interviews.

Posted 2 months ago
Michelle

Still unanimous on the dress pants vs. the jeans. Good luck!

Posted 2 months ago
cciele

I agree -- go with the dress pants!

Posted 2 months ago
Marianna

Okay okay okay. Dress pants it is. :)

Posted 2 months ago
Angie (website)

How did the interview go?

Posted 2 months ago
Marianna

Thanks for asking, Angie! :)

It went well, but since the restaurant is brand new they need someone will 100% full availability, which I don't have because I have another job that I work a couple days a week. The manager really liked me though and said that when the restaurant opens they'll be more flexible with scheduling and that I should email her and check back. She put a post-it note on my resume stating "Great except availability."

I'm hoping something better will turn up soon though. The tv show that I work for completes its taping season in December and I have a feeling a full time position may open up. That would be MUCH better.

Posted 2 months ago
kari (website)

MariannaCecile, I hope that the scheduling works out with your schedule later - or better yet, that you are able to find full time work before then. At the very least, it's wonderful that you were able to get an interview and a good recommendation from the hiring manager.

Posted 2 months ago
Angie (website)

Sounds positive to me! Well done and keep things warm.

Posted 2 months ago