Professional Look at a glance

WHAT SHOULD I KNOW ABOUT THE PROFESSIONAL LOOK?  

• When choosing your outfit for a legal interview, assume that the firm is conservative.
• Remember that details count.
• Don't let your appearance distract the interviewer from the message that you are the best person for this job.

• Select dresses or suits that give you a professional and credible appearance.
• The safest outfit to wear to an interview is a good quality suit in a conservative cut and weight appropriate to the weather.
• A conservative dress and jacket in a good quality fabric is acceptable.
• Stick to navy, black, gray, or burgundy when choosing the color of your suit. Save the brighter colors and pastels until you have the job.
• Shoes should be low-heeled closed-toe pumps or flats in brown, black, or navy. Make sure they are in good repair and polished.
• Choose neutral hose in a color close to your own skin tone without runs or snags.
• Keep fingernail polish understated; no designs, outrageous colors, or chips.
• Don't weigh yourself down with both a briefcase and a purse.
• Jewelry and makeup should be unobtrusive and simple. Keep both to a minimum.
• Choose a hair style that is neat and appropriate; nothing extreme or overdone.
• Avoid strong perfume.

• Traditional business attire is a dark-colored, conservatively cut suit in a wool or wool blend.
• Your dress shirt should be long sleeved in white or light blue. Make sure it is well pressed. Wear a white undershirt.
• A shirt with a thin conservative stripe can be acceptable. Choose a shirt in cotton or cotton blend fabric.
• A job interview is not the place to show off a wacky tie. Keep the design simple. Choose a tie made of good quality fabric, preferably silk.
• Shoes should be leather in a dark color that coordinates with your suit. Choose either a loafer or oxford style that is well polished. Socks should be a dark color that coordinates with your suit.
• Find a simple haircut and stay with it. Keep facial hair simple and neat.
• Avoid heavy cologne or aftershave.
• Avoid jewelry except a watch and a wedding ring.