Is a Collarless Peplum Blazer & Coloured Blouse Interview Appropriate?

(I've been a long time lurker before this, so please be patient as I gain my bearings with my first fashion post )

PEPLUM BLAZER:
This blazer (http://www.asos.com//The-Style.....id=2388211) fits me well (even in the sleeves, which is rare for me), is plain black & has subtle peplum detailing to the sides & back (I say subtle because I didn't even notice it was there until I put the blazer on!) I'm preparing for my first 'real' graduate job interviews in TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) though, & don't know whether it would be suitable?

I know interviews within the education sector are generally more relaxed, but since I'm young (the youngest on my CELTA course at least), I want to be taken seriously without looking too mature for my age.

COLOURED SHIRTS:
I don't know if this helps, but I was planning on wearing the blazer with these slim-fit trousers (http://www.asos.com//Asos/Asos.....id=2334877), & a coloured blouse (collared, cuffed & button-up style)- I have both a blue and grey finely pinstriped shirt (http://www.johnlewis.com/356594/Product.aspx), or a deep pink silk one from Oasis (http://www.oasis-stores.com/si.....4410031948)

I If you don't feel the peplum blazer is appropriate, I also bought this blazer (http://modaiola.com/showcase/index/id/10009985744)- it seems grey from far away, but you can only tell it's made up of black/ white woven fabric when you are very up close to it (see pic). Would it still work with one of the coloured shirt blouses above?

OTHER:
I'm 5ft4 (on the cusp of being 'petite'), average bust, pear shape, olive skin, dark brown (almost black) eyes, & black hair (edit: have Deep Autumn colouring).

I apologise in advance for such a long post, but I wanted to give you all as much information as possible Thank you in advance for your replies!

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12 years ago

ManidipaM

Veteran

I'd say it might be best, as the youngest candidate, to ground your youthful approachability and energy with a conservative element. So either go with the peplum blazer and blue shirt, or the pink shirt with the grey --- the grey and blue together might look too mature/trying too hard, while the peplum and pink together might come off as not serious enough for the responsibility. (Especially as I assume a certain cultural accessibility and reassurance of a level head on the shoulders could be required in teaching effectively 'foreigners;)

kimlee

I agree with Mandi's comments. Combining the colors as she suggested will sstrike the right balance between conservative/mature and youthful.

Beth Ann

You are on the right track, here. I think the peplum jacket is quite appropriate, and I like Mandipa's suggestions. Also, you can break up the elements and use them in your actual teaching wardrobe later. Best of luck!

Thistle

MandipaM is steering you down the right path.

I will say, though, always go for more conservative in an interview, especially if you don't have experience and a proven track record to speak for you. Once you are at a company and have proven yourself, you get more latitude.

rachylou

I think everything in the pics are interview appropriate with the great exception of the shoes. High, open-toe, platforms are three absolute strikes.

moira

Mandi is correct with her color combination advice.
You may have a follow up interview so wear one to the first and the other to the second. also agree with rachylou. Get some closed toe and not overly high black or gray pumps.

Zaeobi

(website)

Thanks for all the advice so far! My main worry was whether the fact that the peplum blazer was collarless would be a hindrance- but judging from these replies, that doesn't seem to be the case (what a relief)!

As for the rest of the look, I've actually returned the grey blazer (it was far too long in the sleeves). So hmm, now to find a way to wear the hot pink blouse without it looking too juvenile- layered under a sweater, maybe?

Yes Manidipa, I'm actually a South Asian 'foreigner' myself lol, so I have to try extra hard to be seen as culturally accessible- thanks again for the tips!

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