Outfit ideas for a kind of weird situation?

Without getting into the particulars, I have reason to visit a place of work where I am actively engaged in the application process for a new job. However, the reason to visit is not part of the interview process. I have the green light from the organization to visit and was even encouraged to come by and introduce myself.

The visit is informal, so my carefully chosen interview outfit is not appropriate in this circumstance. It’s a little bit challenging because my wardrobe at this point in my life is rather limited especially when it comes to spring. I am considering dark jeans and a nice blouse and ankle boots. The weather is going to be 70 with a chance of rain. I could also try to dress down this simple black dress I bought as a potential interview piece.

The job is in the creative field, so visual impression is important, and too corporate would not be right.

Thinking my goal here would be to look like a stylish and put together yet practical tourist.

Photo: inspiration?

This post has 1 photo. Photos uploaded by this member are only visible to other logged in members.

If you aren't a member, but would like to participate, please consider signing up. It only takes a minute and we'd love to have you.

Bloomingdale's

Theory Jasneah Admiral Crepe Dress

View Info

Top Pick

6 years ago

Janet

(website)

Veteran

I would go with the nice dark wash jeans ensemble -- polished casual. Use it as an opportunity to show a bit of your personality and creativity.

Christina F.

Agree with Janet. Also, you may want to find a piece of statement jewelry to help with that visual impact.

JuniperGreen

Ooo, definitely a challenge to dress for "not an interview but still most definitely getting assessed as though it were an interview."

Do you have an idea of what others wear day-to-day at this company? I would try to mimic that vibe. I really like that dress, it has some edge to it. A statement necklace or scarf and signature handbag could work well if you have the right shoes to dress it down.

The Cat

The nice dark jeans sounds fine. For the sake of creativity, be sure to include some colour in your blouse and/or shoes.

As for the dress, I don't know how short it is on you, but if it looks as on the model, your thighs will probably get a lot of attention, and I suppose that is not your primary goal at this occasion. If, however, it hits around the knee cap, OK. But in this case, too, include some colour. Or wear it with a jacket in a non-traditional black & white print.

Sal

I think jeans, boots, blouse will work well.

It is the feeling of making an effort whilst not looking as though you are making an effort. So make sure you are happy with your hair, makeup and accessories whether they are simple or more dramatic. I would wear a bold lip if that is your thing,

Good luck!

Emily K

It that your exact dress? It is really stylish--I love it. I like your jeans/boots/blouse idea.

Anonymous

I hope this is a bonus question because it's challenging!
I can't decide if this is the "getting the team approval" portion of the interview process or the "meet your new coworkers" of the new employee experience. The first is usually pretty clearly stated and the second usually happens on or after Day 1.
If this is supposed to be a truly casual stop by for a minute to introduce yourself to people who will be at work then the polished dark denim outfit sounds good although I think I'd try to add some kind of jacket or light trench.
If the visit is structured enough to include actual scheduled stops I might go with the dress instead.
Another possibility might be that if you are currently employed at something of a comparable level, you go directly from the job you have now, in the very appropriate to that job clothes you'll already be wearing.

Angie

Fashion Stylist

New blouse, new jacket, new shoes, old jeans and new bag. You know exactly what I mean!

Scarlet

Janet, I especially appreciate your perspective knowing you are often dressing for your own studio or exhibitions.

Christina, thanks, you reminded me of a long lost necklace that could be great with the dress.

JuniperGreen, yes! It’s a free opportunity to for them to judge me The people working there dress very sharply, but I think I should take it down a notch from there.

The Cat, yes, I realized after I posted the dress how short it looks on the model, but on me it is a demure knee-length. And I have a jacket just like you describe!! I have a blouse in mind that is cream with a pretty floral pattern.

Sal, good point to amp up my basic level of self-care. I plan to do that.

Emily K, yes that is my dress exactly.

Isabel, it is actually visiting an exhibit which is a *must see* for anyone truly interested in this line of work, but that is closing before the selection process closes. It’s an intimate venue. Kind of awkward situation.

Angie, you are so smart Thanks. It is so simple for you but still tricky for me, so that’s why I knew working with you was a smart idea

I will try to post a picture when I am turned out tomorrow.

Vix

Hi Scarlet --

And here I'd thought I read all the job-interview-adjacent scenarios possible...you sure have a new one!

I think "creative business casual" or "creative corporate" * will be fine, and both your options seem to hit that note depending on how you accessorize. Not sure where you are...if Manhattan that always ups things a bit.

Good luck!

* yes I know these are subjective and not "real" dress codes
either nyt or wsj has/d a series on what employees at specific orgs wear to work...in a hurry and googlefu failing me...but below is an idea

https://www.nytimes.com/2017/0.....style.html

MsMary

If you have a day or two to think about it, you might ask http://www.askamanager.com. They give great advice for all kinds of crazy situations like this. Also check their archives -- you never know what you might find.

Bijou

I love what has been suggested. Wishing you the best of luck in the visit that is not an interview. I got my current job in a similar situation, and it has worked out tremendously.

Joy

You are sorted so I wish you the best of luck. Have a wonderful trip.

lyn67

Wow, that's tricky, and you have got a lot of help already,- would like to see what have you decided on!:-)

Category