What to wear for interview in upscale place?

I got a call for interview at very upscale retailer to work in Operations(behind the scenes admin job) and now I am at total loss what to wear to interview.

You have to understand-this is Hawaii and no one wears suits anywhere unless you have to go to court. However, I have been in this retailer and employees DO wear suits there. So...on that note, I am thinking black suit, silky t shirt and fabulous scarf.

My hubby told me to wear white shirt and black suit. I told him that I am going to look like Secret Service agent and all I would need would be a badge and a holster. He thinks since its an interview, I shouldn't be too fashionable. However, since it IS for retailer, I think I should show some style.

Last few years I worked in very casual environment so I am kind of short on formal business clothes. One option is grey shirt under black suit and another one blue shirt with the scarf.

OR...grey shirt with blue scarf.

If someone has other ideas, please let me know

PS oy I have no idea why this pic is showing up sideways, it looks normal when loaded

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9 years ago

rute

Veteran

I prefer the blue! Oh yes, no black suit with white shirt, too formal, no fun.

Anonymous

I think that you have to dress for who you are being hired by - regardless of your visibility to their customers. If it's a high end retailer, I would try to be as current as possible with your suit . Black and white is too generic, and you want to show your understanding of current fashion. It doesn't have to be a matching suit at all - do you have a pencil skirt in a colour that you can pair with a well-cut blazer in current colours and textures? A silk blouse and plain but visible quality jewellery , watch and a good bag or portfolio ...and don't forget good quality dressy shoes! If the outfit pieces are relatively plain or simple, you can amp it up with quality accessories.

Victoria

(website)

yes, lisap that's what I am thinking. Actually employees there have a sort of dress code(so I was told) which is usually black or navy suit and light color shirt/top so I don't want to venture too far from what they actually wear there.

My pants are nice tailored pair that I think looks current. Jacket I have is fairly basic but I think with nice top and accessories, I will save it from being too plain. And yes, definitely got to pull out my nice black leather bag.

I think that grey top and black white scarf is too plain for my taste so I was leaning towards blue one as well

Michelle

I think your instincts are spot on, Victoria. Displaying some fashionable sensibilities at a trendy retailer is a very good way to go. You also want to be remembered, and a black suit and white shirt will ensure that you aren't, unless it's for the wrong reasons.
Your bag is a perfect place to display some flare in a way that won't be distracting during the interview. Do you have one in an interesting colour or texture? Or can you carry a very of-the-moment daytime clutchh?
Go for contrasting fabrics in your outfit to both emphasize the formality of the occasion and play to the current mixed media trend. The wool of the suit, for instance, could play nicely with a silky texture underneath. Or more eye-catching jewelry..
Keep posting refinements here and the ladies will sort you out. Most importantly, though, Good Luck!!
Your reply

MsMary

I'm with you -- silky tee for the win! I think either the gray or the blue would be fab!

crutcher

The cobalt blue and scarf plus your black "suit"...would be perfect...YOu want to give the vibe "I am fashionable, approachable and professional"..Can't wait to hear how this goes...I really like my mind's vision of your outfit...

unfrumped

I love the blue print scarf with black suit idea, so I'd see which T is best-/ blue if not too much and gray if somehow the blues don't add up right.

Kristin L

I don't think you can go wrong with either top and scarf set. They'll both look great with a black suit. Good luck!!!!

bj1111

Blue...would be super on you.

Style Fan

I think both would look great on you. Good luck!

texstyle

The blue silk tee with the black suit and scarf would be great!

Glory

I think both options are winners! You can't go wrong with either one. Good luck on the interview.

Elle

I prefer the blue but go with the one that makes you feel best. Interviews are stressful. For a fashion related job, your instincts are correct - don't go too conservative. I agree that a fashionable bag or clutch might up your style quotient but only if you have one that works. Good luck and let us know how it goes

Beth Ann

Good luck! Another vote for suit with silky tee. I think it's polished, but a little less "traditional" in that combination.

DonnaF

You might remind your DH that the sartorial rules for women are slightly different than those for men. He might be spot on for a black suit with white shirt for himself -- because he would be wearing a tie, but women are expected to wear a little more color. For example, women politicians frequently wear colored suits and come across as very professional, but a lavender suit (Representative Nancy Pelosi) or a red one (Senator Barbara Boxer) on a man in an equivalent position would be a little shocking.

Best luck on the interview; you seem to be well sorted!

Debbie

Love the idea of the blue.

My interview is tomorrow so I will keep you posted:)

jenanded

Good luck!

Caro

Active Member

I think the outfit you picked out will probably be fine. I totally agree that you should show some style as this is a retailer. You never how just how important your fashion sense is to them--it could be invaluable. It is tough being in a climate/culture like Hawaii where everyone dresses casual or in linen... I think a black suit with a pastel coloured top would be great, as the pastel colours with black are trendy right now. But the cut of the suit is important. I think you could get away without a jacket, just slacks and a dress shirt, with the scarf. Grey is probably better than black, unless this is an executive position. Remember the golden rule: dress for the job you want. Good luck!

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